Despite E.U. Suggestion, Portugal Remains Open to Americans

The Portuguese Government this week announced that discretionary travel to and from the United States is still allowed. The statement by the Ministries of Health, Internal Administration, Foreign Affairs, Defense, Infrastructure and Housing was made on Tuesday in an official dispatch by the Portuguese Government, according to VisitAlentejo. The announcement came just one day after the European Union recommended that member states reimplement travel restrictions on unvaccinated U.S. travelers. That suggestion was based on rising Delta variant numbers in the U.S.

For Americans wishing to visit Portugal, they must provide a RT-PCR Test (or similar NAAT test) 72 hours before boarding, a rapid antigen test 48 hours before boarding, or a valid E.U. Digital COVID Certificate. All passengers need to fill a Passenger Locator Card (individually) before departure to Portugal or on board at www.portugalcleanandsafe.pt. Children under 12 are exempted from taking the test or showing proof of vaccination.

This ruling comes as Portugal has fully vaccinated more than 74 percent of its population, with 84 percent having had at least one injection, according to The New York Times. The goal, according to VisitAlentejo, is to have 85 percent of the nation vaccinated, allowing for a roll back of restrictions in October. Currently, hotels and restaurants require proof of vaccination, or a rapid test and masks are still required in many places. Portugal’s travel industry worked with the government to put these safety measures in place.

For more information on travel to Portugal, visit www.visitportugal.com.

This article originally appeared on www.travelagentcentral.com.

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