Portugal changes Covid rules- latest travel restrictions for British tourists on holiday

Boris Johnson discusses booster jabs for international travel

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Madeira is an extremely popular tourist destination and 1.5 million tourists visited in 2019. But as Covid rates rise across Europe, the island is introducing more restrictions.

The UK Government updated its Portugal travel advice for British tourists travelling to Madeira.

It said: “The regional Government of Madeira declared a return to a state of contingency on 20 November.

“Some of the measures introduced with immediate effect include the requirement to show a vaccination certificate or negative antigen test (renewable weekly) on access to:

“Sporting, social and cultural events, events relating to the Christmas festivities, cinemas, casinos, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, gyms and beauty salons, supermarkets and grocery stores, shopping centres, pharmacies, the post office and service stations, clinics and health centres, veterinary clinics, public services, churches and public transport.”

Further measures will be introduced on the island from 27 November in an attempt to control the spread of Covid.

The UK Government said: “From 27 November, there will be a requirement to show a vaccination certificate and a negative antigen test (renewable weekly).”

The antigen test and vaccination certificate will be required to enter certain venues on the island.

The Government said it would be required for various social outings.

Even tourists who are fully vaccinated will need to provide a negative antigen test result to enter the venues.

Children under the age of 12 are exempt from the new rules according to the UK Government advice.

It said: “These measures do not apply to children under the age of 12 (i.e up to and including 11) or to those, who for medical reasons, cannot be vaccinated.

“In this case, you will need to show a formal declaration from your doctor confirming that you cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons.”

In mainland Portugal, including the Algarve, British tourists need to show an EU Covid certificate or UK vaccination record to attend large events or enter bars and nightclubs.

They also need to wear a mask indoors and outdoors where social distancing cannot be maintained.

As Covid rates rise across Europe, several countries have reintroduced restrictions for tourists and residents.

Austria has entered a 10 day full lockdown which could be extended if needed, according to the Austrian Government.

Germany has cancelled many of its famous Christmas markets, including Munich, in an attempt to control rates.

France will make booster jabs a requirement for over 65s in December if they want to qualify for a French health passport.

Without the health passport, over 65s will need to take regular tests to enter hospitality venues.

British tourists are advised to check the UK Government website before travelling as restrictions can change rapidly.

Britons planning to visit Madeira can also check the Visit Madeira website for the latest restrictions on the island.

On their return, British tourists will need to take a lateral flow test on or before day two after arrival.

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