Portugal ditches tests for millions of Brits – everything you need to know about new rules

Martin Lewis says get travel insurance as soon as you book

We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info

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.”

What are the new travel rules for fully vaccinated people visiting Portugal?

In a statement on Thursday, the Portuguese government said negative tests will no longer be required for “those who present the EU COVID Digital Certificate in any of its modalities or other proof of vaccination that has been recognised”.

Portugal will accept the UK’s proof of vaccination.

To be considered fully vaccinated, UK travellers must have had their second jab less than nine months ago, or have had their booster jab.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) adds: “You must complete an online passenger locator card.”

DON’T MISS
Spain vaccine rules to change: What do Britons need to know? [EXPLAINER]
Pilot shares common mistake passengers make ‘reducing survival’ [COMMENT]
France bans tourists without Covid booster jab [REPORT]

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.

“Antigen tests must be completed within 48 hours of departure. They must meet the standards set out in the EU common list of Rapid Antigen Tests.

“RT-PCR tests must be completed within 72 hours of departure.”

Passengers must complete an online passenger locator card and be prepared to show a negative COVID-19 test result or their NHS or EU COVID recovery certificate (except children aged 11 or under).

Portugal has not yet made any announcements as to whether it will be changing entry rules for unvaccinated people.

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.”

Source: Read Full Article