Portugal: Authorities tighten entry requirements for UK arrivals from June 28 /update 47

Portugal introduces additional requirements for arrivals from UK June 28; other entry and domestic restrictions remain in effect.

Event

Authorities have announced that, with effect from June 28, travelers from the UK must provide evidence that they have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or quarantine for 14 days on arrival. The measure, which will remain in effect until at least July 11, comes amid concern over the spread of COVID-19 variants. Entry is currently permitted for travelers from EEA-associated states and Australia, China, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Singapore, Thailand, the UK, and the US. 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. Authorities are likely to announce they will reopen to travelers from elsewhere in the coming days, providing they can confirm they have been fully vaccinated by a European Medicines Agency-approved vaccine.

All permitted arrivals must currently present a negative result from a COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours before boarding or an antigen test taken within 24 hours before boarding. Travelers who have visited Brazil, India, Nepal, and South Africa 14 days before arrival in Portugal must also self-isolate for 14 days on arrival.

Domestic Restrictions
Authorities previously extended the nation's state of calamity and tightened domestic restrictions imposed to combat the spread of COVID-19 until at least June 11. Most businesses and services are permitted to operate subject to strict hygiene and social distancing measures. Telecommuting is mandatory where possible. Catering establishments are permitted to remain open until 22:30, with up to six people to a table indoors and 10 people to a table outdoors. Facemasks remain mandatory in indoor public spaces. Tighter restrictions remain in place in higher-risk areas, including Lisbon, Albufeira, and Sesimbra. For details of local restrictions by municipality, 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.