Portugal: Portugal to tighten COVID-19 restrictions from Dec. 1 /update 58

Event

Portuguese authorities are introducing a state of calamity nationwide and tightening measures imposed to combat the spread of COVID-19 from Dec. 1 amid rising infection rates throughout the region.

Domestic Restrictions
From this date, the following domestic measures will go into effect:

• Facemasks will be mandatory in all enclosed public spaces.

• COVID certificates proving the holder is vaccinated against, recovered from, or recently tested negative for COVID-19 will be required for access to restaurants, gyms, tourist establishments and accommodations, and for events.

• A recent negative COVID-19 test will be required for access to healthcare facilities, nightclubs, bars, sports events, and large events without fixed seating.

• Teleworking will be recommended for all where possible.

Restrictions will be tightened further Jan. 2-9; during this period teleworking becomes mandatory, schools remain closed, and bars and nightclubs may not open.

International Entry Restrictions
From Dec. 1, all individuals arriving by plane regardless of vaccination or recovery status must present to the carrier proof of a negative PCR or rapid antigen test taken in the 48 hours before boarding. This can be in the form of an EU Digital COVID Certificate or other accepted certificates. Carriers will likely deny boarding to any travelers not meeting this requirement.

Prior to Dec. 1, all permitted arrivals must present either an EU Digital COVID Certificate, a valid vaccination or recovery certificate issued by a third country such as the UK's NHS COVID Pass, a negative result from a COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours before boarding, or a negative result from an antigen test taken within 48 hours before boarding.

Travelers from EEA-associated states, Brazil, Canada, the UK, and the US, in addition to Australia, Chile, China, Hong Kong, Jordan, Kuwait, New Zealand, Qatar, Rwanda, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Ukraine, UAE, and Uruguay can enter the country for nonessential purposes, including tourism. 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 purposes.

All arrivals must also fill out a passenger locator form before departure, available by clicking here.

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.

Resources

Ministry of Health COVID-19 Hub (Portuguese)
Schengen Area countries