Portugal scraps testing for vaccinated arrivals – what are the latest travel rules? | Travel News | Travel
Portugal has announced plans to drop the need for evidence of a negative Covid test for millions of fully vaccinated UK arrivals. The Portuguese government has announced anyone arriving with a valid digital European Union certificate or recognised proof of vaccination will be able to enter the country test-free and without quarantine.
The move, approved in a cabinet meeting, is aligned with European Union rules and will see an estimated 48.5 million vaccinated Britons now eligible.
However, those who are not vaccinated face a different set of rules.
According to Reuters, Portugal’s government has not yet said when the decision would take effect, but the rules now in force were meant to last until February 9.
However, in a tweet travel expert Paul Charles said: “From tomorrow Portugal is to drop the need for Covid test proof on arrival from the UK, as long as you can show a valid digital certificate proving you’ve been fully-jabbed/boosted.
“That is a major boost for before half-term holidays begin, and for business.”
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What are the travel rules for unvaccinated people visiting Portugal?
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has not yet updated its travel advice to reflect the latest change.
Currently, unvaccinated Britons are permitted to enter Portugal as long as they provide evidence of a negative COVID-19 test.
The FCDO states: “You may have a RT-PCR or an antigen test. Make sure the test you choose meets the following criteria:
“All tests must be carried out by trained healthcare professionals. Self-administered tests are not acceptable.
What are the Covid rules in Portugal?
Portugal currently requires proof of vaccination or a negative Covid test in order to access certain public amenities.
On entry to hotels and other tourist accommodation, restaurants, casinos, gyms and events and shows with reserved seating, you will be asked to show a COVID-19 vaccination or recovery certificate or a negative COVID-19 test result.
On entry to nursing and retirement homes, hospitals and clinics, sports arenas, bars and nightclubs and events without reserved seating, you will be asked to show a COVID-19 vaccination or recovery certificate and a negative COVID-19 test result.
The FCDO adds: “If you can show you received the COVID-19 booster at least 14 days before you need to enter one of these facilities or attend an event, you will not need to show a negative test result.”
