The Coronavirus | Portugal

This document contains the latest information about the protocols, preventative measures and changes adopted in Portugal in response to the Coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic.

Sunvil has offered holidays to Portugal since 1984, and, in keeping with our ethos, focuses on the lesser-known regions of the country. From the Algarve in the south to the border with Galicia in the north, we have selected destinations and properties full of charm, authenticity and character. Our desire is that you have a personal and enriching holiday experience.

Throughout the pandemic, we have closely monitored government guidance, regional policies and have maintained a continuous dialogue with our colleagues in Portugal. Below we have highlighted the facts and guidelines relating to accommodation, shops and services. It is important to note that guidelines are being updated daily and you should contact us should you have any specific questions or concerns.

This document was updated on Sunday 24 April.

Testing guidance.

Fully vaccinated travellers: This status applies if you have received both vaccinations (with the second dose issued less than 270 days prior to departure and more than 14 days prior to departure) OR in receipt of the booster vaccination.

• Pre-departure testing: A pre-departure test is not required for fully vaccinated travellers. Proof of vaccination status is required (see below).
• Form to enter Portugal: This is not required.
• Test in resort: Random health screening on arrival may take place.
• Test to return to the UK: This is not required.
• Form to enter the UK: This is not required.
• Test on return to the UK: Testing on return to the UK is not required.

* Evidence for passengers in receipt of both vaccinations or in receipt of the booster vaccination (NHS App OR letter):

• The NHS App: This application is valid on smart phones and tablets and requires ALL passengers to register for their own account. The account is connected to your NHS number, date of birth and postcode. The application will display your Covid-19 vaccine record.
• An official certificate from the NHS: This certificate can be obtained by calling "119" from any UK landline or mobile (or by dialling "111" if resident in Wales). This request takes 5-7 days.
• You should check that your name on your passport matches how it is displayed on your NHS Covid App/certificate (Pass). If the names are different, contact your GP practice to have your details updated. Middle names are not required on the App/certificate. 
• We recommend you travel with a printed copy of your vaccination certificate. A printed copy of your vaccination status (as obtained by the NHS App) must be dated after 01 November.

Travelling to Portugal if you have not received both vaccinations: 

• Pre-departure test: A PCR test taken within 72 hours of your flight departure time from the UK or a rapid antigen test from an authorised clinic taken within 24 hours of your flight departure time - A negative test result is required in order to travel. Neither test can be self-administered; tests must be completed by a medical professional. The NHS lateral flow (antigen) test is not accepted.
• Form to enter Portugal: This is not required.
• Test in resort: Random health screening on arrival may take place.
• Test to return: This is not required.
• Form to enter the UK: This is not required.
• Test on return to the UK: Testing on return to the UK is not required.

Children aged 17yrs and younger:

• Pre-departure test – required for children aged 12-17yrs: A PCR test taken within 72 hours of your flight departure time from the UK or a rapid antigen test from an authorised clinic taken within 48 hours of your flight departure time - A negative test result is required in order to travel. Neither test can be self-administered; tests must be completed by a medical professional. The NHS lateral flow (antigen) test is not accepted.
• Form to enter Portugal: This is not required.
• Test in resort: Random health screening on arrival may take place.
• Test to return to the UK: This is not required.
• Form to enter the UK: This is not required.
• Test on return to the UK: Testing on return to the UK is not required.

In addition to the 'Clean and Safe' stamp of approval detailed below, Portugal was also the first country to be awarded the WTTC (World Travel and Tourism Council) Global Safety Stamp, 'Safe Travels'. This stamp is designed to enable travellers to recognise governments and companies around the world which have adopted health and hygiene global standardised protocols – so consumers can experience ‘Safe Travels’.

All arrivals into Portugal are given a leaflet about the measures adopted by the country and what they should do if they start displaying symptons. Airports are using temperature screening. 

Pre-departure team

Should you have any questions concerning your booked trip, contact our Pre-Departure team who will only be too happy to answer any questions. Contact them on - 020 8568 4499 and press Option 4. Alternatively email us at predep@sunvil.co.uk.

Sunvil's support

Sunvil’s destination specialists have toured Portugal and know the country inside out. The sales team is supported in-country by our local agent. We operate a 24-hour emergency telephone number and are also on hand to answer any questions you may have.

Useful links

• A country by country overview can be found at reopen.europa.eu/en
• Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office advice for Portugal
• Coronavirus specific travel advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office