Portugal is tightening Covid-19 restrictions as case numbers are rising – and introducing the need for arrivals by air to present a negative test result.
Prime minister António Costa announced the changes on Thursday, according to reports, although the country has not seen a surge on the scale witnessed elsewhere in Europe.
Reuters said airlines will be fined €20,000 euros if they transport anyone who does not carry proof of a Covid-19 test, including those who are fully vaccinated.
Passengers can take a PCR or a rapid antigen test, 72 hours or 48 hours respectively before departure.
The new rules come into force on December 1.
Also from that date, wearing a face mask will again be mandatory in enclosed spaces and a digital certificate proving vaccination or recovery from Covid-19 must be shown to enter restaurants, cinemas and hotels.
Reuters said Portugal has one of the world’s highest rates of vaccination against Covid-19, at about 87%, but it saw 3,773 new cases on Wednesday, the highest daily figure in four months.
Picture of Carvoeiro fishing village, Algarve, Portugal, by DaLiu/Shutterstock