Portugal: Authorities to extend COVID-19-related state of emergency until March 31, ease some restrictions starting March 15 /update 35

Portugal to extend COVID-19-related state of emergency until March 31 and ease some domestic measures from March 15.

Event

Authorities in Portugal have issued orders extending the nation's COVID-19-related state of emergency through at least March 31, while easing certain related restrictions. Effective March 15, daycare centers, preschools, and primary schools, as well as bookstores and libraries, will be allowed to reopen. In addition, certain close contact service establishments, such as hair and cosmetics salons, will be allowed to resume operations. Starting April 5, authorities plan to allow shops having floor space of up to 200 square meters (2150 square feet), gyms, and outdoor dining at catering establishments to reopen.

Under the updated 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, among other things. Travel between municipalities will be banned the weekend of March 20-21, as well as over March 26-April 5 Easter holiday season. Many nonessential businesses remain closed. Dining establishments are open for delivery and carryout services. All events, except religious ceremonies, are prohibited.

International entry restrictions
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 a negative result from a COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test taken within the 72 hours prior to boarding. Travelers arriving from countries with COVID-19 incidence rates 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. In addition, the border with Spain remains closed for non-essential crossings until at least April 5.

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.