Portugal: Authorities extends COVID-19-related state of emergency and constituent restrictions until March 16 /update 34

Portugal extends COVID-19-related state of emergency until March 16; business and travel restrictions remain in place.

Event

Authorities in Portugal have extended the state of emergency introduced to combat the spread of COVID-19 until at least March 16. Under the state of emergency, residents of mainland Portugal must stay at home except to perform essential tasks, such as acquiring basic goods or going to work if telecommuting is not possible, among other things. Travel between municipalities is banned each weekend Friday 2000-Monday 0500. Nonessential businesses remain closed. Dining establishments are open for delivery and carryout services. All events, except religious ceremonies, are prohibited.

Authorities permit entry for travelers from the EU and Schengen Area countries, Australia, China, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Singapore, and Thailand. Travel from other countries remains prohibited, except for limited essential reasons, including EU citizens and residents returning home, reuniting with family, and commuting for essential work or study. All permitted arrivals must present evidence of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within the 72 hours prior to boarding. Travelers arriving from countries with a COVID-19 incidence rate of over 500 per 100,000 inhabitants must also self-isolate for 14 days on arrival.

Flights connecting with Brazil and the UK remain suspended in response to the identification of new COVID-19 variants in these countries; during this time, only humanitarian and repatriation flights will be permitted. All permitted travelers from these locations must be in possession of a negative result from a PCR test taken no more than 72 hours prior to departure and must self-isolate for 14 days upon arrival.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions.