Portugal is the latest European country to reopen its borders to US travelers this summer.
The US Embassy in Portugal advises that from today (June 15), non-essential travel from the US to mainland Portugal is permitted for travelers with proof of a negative COVID-19 test result.
Travel Requirements for Visiting Portugal
Visitors are required to submit a negative COVID PCR result from a test taken no more than 72 hours before traveling, or a rapid antigen test performed within 24 hours of boarding. Children under the age of two are exempt from these requirements. For more information about testing requirements, you can find useful details here.
Vaccination Status and Travel
Economy Minister Pedro Siza Viera suggested last week that vaccinated travelers from the US could potentially visit Portugal, provided they show proof of vaccination. However, in this latest travel update, no test exemptions for vaccinated travelers have been established. The rules will be reviewed again in two weeks on June 27.
Impact on Tourism in Portugal
As Portugal opens to American tourists, it’s important to note that the UK recently reintroduced quarantine restrictions on travelers returning from Portugal. This development poses a significant challenge for the country’s tourism sector since Britain is one of Portugal’s largest foreign tourism markets.
Lifting restrictions for Americans is crucial, as this decision aims to prevent another catastrophic blow to the country’s GDP. According to Reuters, 1.2 million tourists from the US visited Portugal in 2019, but that number dramatically fell to 135,229 in 2020.
Conclusion
Staying informed and understanding travel requirements can significantly enhance your travel experience. Consider these updates if planning a trip to Portugal and enjoy the rich culture and beautiful landscapes that the country has to offer.
