Portugal: Authorities extend COVID-19 related state of emergency until April 30 /update 39

Portugal extends COVID-19-related state of emergency until April 30; domestic restrictions remain in effect.

Event

Authorities have extended the nationwide state of emergency until at least April 30 as part of efforts to reduce the spread of COVID-19; the measure was due to expire April 15. 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. Some nonessential businesses remain closed, and catering establishments are open for outdoor services only. All public events, except religious ceremonies, are prohibited. Stricter restrictions are likely to remain in force in areas of higher COVID-19 activity.

Some restrictions have been eased, with daycare centers, preschools, and primary schools, as well as bookstores and libraries and some close-contact services, permitted to open. Authorities plan to further relax restrictions from April 19, with indoor restaurants, shopping malls, and cinemas reopening in accordance with strict hygiene and social-distancing protocols.

International Entry Restrictions

Entry is only permitted for travelers from EU-associated states, as well as Australia, China, New Zealand, South Korea, Singapore, and Thailand. Travelers from EU/EEA countries with an incidence rate of over 150 cases per 100,000 people may only make essential trips to Portugal. Travel from other countries remains prohibited except in limited essential cases, 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 72 hours before 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.

All flights to and from the UK and Brazil remain suspended until at least the end of April 15. Only humanitarian and repatriation flights will be permitted. All permitted travelers from Brazil, as well as from South Africa, 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.