Variant Omicron and Covid-19: measures for traveling to Portugal this winter

Portugal, one of the favorite European destinations for the French, remains largely open to visitors, vaccinated or not. The Lusitanian State has gone into overdrive in the face of the Covid-19 epidemic with one of the highest vaccination rates in Europe (nearly 89% of the population had completed their vaccination schedule by January 12) and in adopting a set of preventive measures so that all economic activities, including tourism, function fully.

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Despite this, the country has been imposing restrictions again, since late November, to contain a surge in cases. And everything accelerated with the new strain Omicron. Like other European countries, Portugal is seeing the number of cases soar. Anxious to avoid the disaster scenario caused last winter by the Alpha variant, the government is maintaining its measures in force. Small relaxation, however: bars and nightclubs reopened on January 14. Their access remains conditional at least on the presentation of the health pass.

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On arrival in Portugal: vaccine, tests... What formalities for the French?

Mandatory test

The country is open to international travellers, especially those from the Schengen area, such as the French. All can enter Portugal, whatever the reason and whether or not they are vaccinated, subject to presenting proof of a negative PCR result of a test dating back less than 72 hours or of a rapid antigenic test dating less than 48 hours (no self-test). Otherwise, they will be tested at their own expense on arrival. Failure to present a document attesting to Covid negativity or refusal to submit to a test exposes you to a fine of 300 to 2000 euros. Sanctions will apply to airlines that board passengers without proof of a negative test. Children under 12 do not have to present a negative test result.

And also...

To mainland Portugal, whether arriving by air, sea or transit, all passengers must complete the Passenger Locator Form, prior to departure. Finally, the temperature is checked by thermal camera in all the airports of the country.

By car, border controls between Portugal and Spain are lifted. But in the other direction, Spain, it asks tourists to be provided with their health pass.

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What about Madeira and the Azores?

Madeira and the Azores require proof of complete vaccination (at least 14 days), immunity (certified by a positive PCR) or a 72-hour PCR. The temperature of each traveler is also taken on arrival. In Madeira, arrivals must also complete an online form (epidemiological survey) via the madeirasafe.com platform. In the Azores, a declaration must be completed on arrival. Non-vaccinated persons must also undergo new tests on site on the 6th day if the stay exceeds 7 days.

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Sanitary pass, gauge in restaurants, curfews... What are the measures in force in Portugal?

The restrictions are real but they have been relaxed since January 14, the date of the reopening of bars and discos. Most activities are subject to the presentation of a negative test, such as access to cultural and sporting events without assigned seats.

But since January 10, those vaccinated or cured no longer need to present a negative test to enter tourist establishments and local accommodation. In addition, those who received a booster dose of vaccine more than 14 days ago are exempt from presenting a negative test to access places or activities that require it.

Wearing a mask is compulsory in:

Since September, wearing a mask is no longer compulsory outdoors, except when the social distance of two meters cannot be respected. .

In Madeira and the Azores, proof of a negative antigen is required in bars, clubs, restaurants and cultural events.

When returning to France: test of less than 24 hours necessary if you are not vaccinated

For return to France, a PCR or antigen test of less than 72 hours is compulsory for non-vaccinated vaccinated 12 years or older. Attention, these tests are chargeable in Portugal: you will find the details of the prices in this article.

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This article originally published on October 27, 2021 is subject to regular updates.