On 18 March 2020 the President of Portugal, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, announced a State of Emergency to be brought in by the Portuguese Government. The State of Emergency legislation published on 20 March brings into force a series of measures to limit the spread of the virus (COVID-19). Cases of coronavirus (COVID-19) have been confirmed in Portugal.
The measures include significant restrictions on movement throughout the country, affecting public places and transport. They will be in place for an initial two weeks, and can be extended. Public gatherings are banned, most shops other than those selling food or other essential items such as pharmacies have been closed. People in the country have been instructed to remain at home unless they need to carry out one of the following activities:
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to buy food or other essential items
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to go to work if unable to work from home
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to go to hospital or health centres
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to carry out caring or similar duties or in case of real need
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to return to their primary residence
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to exercise outdoors and walk pets, for short periods and never in groups
An informal English translation of the decree, covering the key areas that affect British nationals in the country, is found attached. The full legislation (Portuguese) is found here.
The British Embassy in Lisbon and Consulate in Portimão are working hard to keep UK nationals informed, through Travel Advice and Living in Portugal guide on gov.uk, and through our Facebook page Brits in Portugal.
