Travel advice

Nowadays, almost everybody travels abroad, either on vacation, for business purposes, or to visit relatives and friends. When planning a trip, it is nevertheless advisable to follow some procedures prior to departure, so that travelling does not become a nuisance, but on the contrary, a rather enjoyable experience.

Apart the logistic details that should be safeguarded, find below some travel recommendations that should be taken into account.

Always make sure your passport is valid and in good condition.  Some countries insist that your passport be valid for at least six months after the start of your visit, so check the expiry date carefully.

In case you are travelling to an EU country with your Identity Card, check its validity period.

Also check whether a visa is required to enter the country(ies) you intend to visit and whether any specific vaccination is mandatory.

If you are visiting a tropical area where the conditions exist for the spread of infectious diseases, try to obtain as much information as possible before departing and inform the MFA or the local Portuguese Embassy(ies) and/or Consulate(s) of your travel plans and contact details.
Do not carry any suitcase or parcel that does not belong to you and never leave your luggage unattended.

Stay away from any sort of drug contact, manipulation or consumption. You risk facing heavy fines, prison terms, or even death penalty.

When travelling to a tropical country with endemic diseases, you should consider consulting your doctor 4 to 6 weeks before departing to discuss known or possible health risks.

Bear in mind that certain countries are ruled by strict laws forbidding alcohol consumption, import or sale. Get appropriate information before departure.

Some substances are considered legal in Portugal but illegal in other countries. If you take medication on a regular basis, you should always bring with you an official medical prescription to that effect.

If you intend to drive while abroad, make sure that your driving licence is valid for the duration of the trip and tender at all countries you intend to visit.
Make sure you are duly insured for driving while abroad.

For further information on travel advice, please go to http://www.secomunidades.pt/web/guest/viajantes