Portugal: Authorities enforcing eased domestic COVID-19-related measures as of March 8 /update 63

Event

Portuguese authorities are enforcing an eased slate of COVID-19-related domestic restrictions as of March 8. Individuals no longer need to present a digital COVID-19 certificate or proof of a negative test result to access major events, sports venues, bars, and nightclubs. Authorities have also lifted capacity limits on entertainment venues and certain other establishments. Travelers arriving with valid vaccination certificates are no longer required to possess a negative test in order to be permitted entry.

Domestic Measures
Most businesses and services are operating subject to certain health controls. COVID-19 certificates confirming the holder is vaccinated against, recovered from, or recently tested negative for COVID-19 are no longer required to access certain establishments and facilities. Facemasks remain mandatory in all enclosed public spaces and certain crowded outdoor spaces.

International Travel Restrictions
Nonessential travel is permitted from the EU member nations and Schengen Area associated states, as well as a limited number of additional countries including Bahrain, Brazil, Canada, Chile, China, Colombia, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Kuwait, Macau, New Zealand, Qatar, Peru, Rwanda, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, the UAE, the UK, the US, and Uruguay. 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 fill out a passenger locator form before departure, available by clicking here.

All permitted travelers must also possess one of the following:

• A valid vaccination certificate

• A recovery certificate linked to the EU Digital COVID Certificate gateway

• A negative PCR test taken in the 72 hours prior to boarding transport

• A negative rapid antigen test taken in the 24 hours prior to boarding transport

Additionally, self-isolation is no longer required for travelers arriving from Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, or Zimbabwe; however, nonessential travel remains prohibited.

For further information regarding entry requirements, including countries permitted for nonessential travel and valid vaccination and recovery certificates, click 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