The Portuguese authorities have confirmed that Portugal will lift the obligation to submit a negative COVID-19 test prior to arrival.
Announcing the new travel rules coming into force soon, the Portuguese government said it would no longer require pre-entry tests from travelers holding a valid EU COVID digital certificate or any other proof of vaccination that is already recognized for travels.
This suggests that not only travelers from the European Union and the Schengen area, but also those from third countries whose vaccination certificates are recognized in Portugal will be exempted from the testing requirement. However, the government and the responsible ministry have not yet disclosed additional data on third-country nationals.
The authorities have not given a specific date when the new rules will enter into force. However, as the current entry requirements for the country will remain in force until February 9, it is expected that the testing requirement will be removed in the coming days.
Portugal currently requires all travelers to submit a rapid antigen test performed within 48 hours or a PCR test performed 72 hours before their arrival. The test requirement applies to everyone, even those who have been completely vaccinated or recovered from the virus.
Portugal's decision to remove the test requirement follows the recommendation of the EU Commission, which advised all Member States to create a coordinated approach to facilitate travel for those who have already been fully vaccinated or have received an additional dose of vaccine.