Portugal

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial 112 for police and ambulance services.
• Dial 800-202-148 for toll-free domestic violence hotline.

Terrorism

Terrorists and their supporters may target U.S. citizens abroad. Credible information indicates terrorist groups continue plotting possible near-term attacks in Europe. All European countries, including Portugal, remain potentially vulnerable to attacks from transnational terrorist organizations. Stay vigilant regarding your personal security.

Terrorists may target:

• Large public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants
• Places of worship
• Schools
• Parks
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation (subways, buses, trains, and commercial flights)

Crime

• Crimes of opportunity are common. They include pickpocketing and purse snatching. These crimes tend to occur at popular tourist sites, restaurants, and on public transportation.
• Pickpockets take advantage of crowds getting on and off all forms of public transportation. They use the busy crowds as a distraction.
• Avoid standing near the doors on public transportation.  Thieves will often strike just as the train or bus doors open. They then dash onto the platform and disappear into the crowd.
• Secure your passport and identity documents when traveling throughout Portugal. Foreigners who arrive in Portugal without a valid passport will not be permitted to enter and will be returned to their point of origin. The U.S. embassy cannot intercede with the Portuguese Immigration authorities to allow U.S. citizens to enter without valid entry travel documents.
• Be aware of your surroundings and take personal security measures to stay safe. Reports of thefts of backpacks, electronics and luggage are increasing. Do not leave valuables in rental cars, especially those with stickers identifying the vehicle as a rental car. Tourists are frequent victims of petty crime and car break-ins.

Reports of thefts from rental homes and online rental apartments have increased.  Secure belongings and keep doors and windows locked at all times, even when you are inside or sleeping. Take extra care if the room or building is easily accessed from the street or other places.

• Avoid using ATMs in remote or poorly lit areas. Use the buddy system and indoor ATMs in banks when possible.
• Leave extra cash, credit cards, and personal documents at home or in a hotel safe.
• Illicit drug transactions increase at night. Travelers may be approached by drug dealers in the downtown area of Lisbon, especially near the bars and restaurants. Some travelers have reported that criminals used drugs to assault or rob them. Use caution when accepting open drinks at bars or clubs. Do not leave your drinks unattended.
• Always use a taxi from the queue or kiosk. Do not accept offers from a driver or agent who walks up to you and offers a ride. If you have called a ride sharing service such as Uber, confirm that the car information in the app matches the vehicle you are entering.
• Do not leave personal items or valuables unattended while at the beach.

Scams

• Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.
• If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.  

Financial scams and Internet romance scams are common throughout the world. Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a "romantic" relationship online or claim local authorities want money. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters. Scammers pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help.

Common scams include:

• False taxis and “unofficial” taxi drivers who approach you unsolicited
• People claiming to be detained or hospitalized abroad
• Romance and online dating
• Money transfers
• Grandparent and relative targeting
• Free trip or luggage
• Inheritance notices

If using dating apps or websites in Portugal please be aware: 

• Criminals may use dating apps to target potential victims for robbery or assault.
• Let your friends and family know where you are and consider sharing your location on your phone. 
• If you agree to meet, meet in a popular public place.
• Tell your family or friends all the details about the person you are meeting and how you met them (which app).
• Set up and talk using a video call before agreeing to meet in person. 
• Avoid locations where you can be isolated, like hotel rooms, private apartments or houses.
• Never leave food or drinks unattended at a bar or restaurant.
• Observe the preparation of your food or drink order when possible.
• Refuse offers of food or drinks from strangers.
• Have a communication plan with friends or family. Send updates to them on an agreed schedule. 

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications.
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad. Scammers often target U.S. citizens.

Drones

• Drone technology is allowed in Portugal. However, use must follow safety rules and be registered to ensure airspace control and the protection of people.
• For more information visit the Portuguese Civil Aviation Authority.

Tourism safety

The tourism industry is regulated:

• Rules and safety inspections are regularly enforced. 
• Dangerous areas and activities are marked with signs.
• Trained and certified staff are usually there to help with organized activities.
• If you get injured, you can usually get medical help locally.
• In rural areas, it might take longer for medical help to arrive and help.
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance. 
• Review our information on Travel Insurance.  

Adventure travel

• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention tips for Adventure Travel.

Criminal penalties

• U.S. citizens must follow local laws. If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Portugal seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.  

Arrest notification

If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy or consulate immediately. 

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• They may be illegal according to local laws.
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety. 
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States. 

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice  

Faith-based travelers

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources: 

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

• There are no legal restrictions on consensual same-sex sexual relations, the provision of information or services to persons on the basis of real or perceived sexual orientation, or the organization of events focused on sexual orientation in Portugal. 
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with disabilities or accessibility needs

• The law in Portugal prohibits discrimination against people with physical, sensory, psychosocial, intellectual, or mental disabilities. The law is enforced, and Portugal has made significant efforts to improve accessibility and inclusion for individuals with disabilities.
• Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication and information, and general infrastructure in rural areas or older parts of cities, where historical buildings and narrow streets may pose challenges.
• Cultural norms and general public sentiment around disability in Portugal are generally positive, with the public often willing to assist individuals with disabilities. However, travelers may need to ask for help explicitly, as some locals may not assume assistance is needed unless requested.
• General information on accessibility and accommodations is available on the website of the Portuguese Tourism Board.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad.  

Women travelers 

• Review our information for Women Travelers.
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

Human rights

Portugal is generally a safe and welcoming country with strong protections for human rights and fundamental freedoms, according to the U.S. State Department’s recent annual reports on human rights.  Visitors are unlikely to encounter human rights issues but should remain aware of ongoing social debates and occasional protests related to policing, minority rights, and labor conditions. 

• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for Portugal prior to traveling .

Health resources

• CDC Portugal Traveler Information provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations.
• CDC Medical Tourism information
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency phone numbers

• Dial 112 for emergency medical services and ask for medical assistance. English speaking operators are available. You may say: “Tenho uma urgencia medica” if you cannot reach one quickly.

Ambulance services

• Ambulance services are widely available. However, the training and response time of emergency responders may be inadequate outside major cities. 

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan includes any medical expenses coverage abroad.  Most U.S. plans do not.

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Medical care is not free in Portugal. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
• Credit card payment is not always available.
• Private and some public hospitals often need payment up front or proof of good insurance before providing treatment or admitting a patient. 
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Vaccinations

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Healthcare facilities

• Healthcare facilities are available throughout Portugal. It may be harder to find adequate health care in rural areas.
• The U.S. embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
• Medical staff may speak little or no English.
• Patients must cover all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.
• Psychological and psychiatric services may be limited, even in larger cities.

Medical tourism and elective surgery

• Medical tourism is a fast-growing industry. If you want healthcare abroad, you need to know that their medical systems are different from the United States. They don't follow the same rules. Before you travel for medical reasons, talk to your doctor.
• Visit the CDC’s Medical Tourism website for information on medical tourism. Find out about the risks of medical tourism and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Portugal.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications. 
• Your legal options in case of malpractice may be limited in Portugal.   

Prescription medications

• Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.
• Check with the Portugal Health Ministry to ensure the medication is legal in Portugal.
• Portuguese pharmacies usually have similar medicines, but they might have different brand names, dosages, or need a prescription from a local doctor.
• You cannot mail prescription medicines from the U.S. to Portugal. Customs will confiscate them.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States.  If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.

For more information:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Food and Drug Administration

Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy (ART)

• If you are considering traveling to Portugal to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad.
• Surrogacy is illegal for foreigners in Portugal. The Government of Portugal maintains a website with more detailed information.
• If you decide to pursue parenthood in Portugal via ART with a surrogate, consider hiring a reputable local attorney and be prepared for long and unexpected delays in documenting your child’s birth with local authorities and/or citizenship status. Be aware that individuals who attempt to circumvent local law risk legal consequences.  

Water quality and food safety

• Tap water is generally safe to drink and use in cooking.
•  Bottled water and beverages are used extensively and are both safe and palatable.

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad.

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Portugal.
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.
• For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.
• Visit the Government of Portugal’s website for real-time information on air quality.

Road conditions and safety

• Portugal has many well-built roads, but the road fatality rate is still high.
• Be cautious of aggressive drivers and high speeds.
• Drive safely, follow speed limits, and stay alert.
• Adequate traffic signage and basic road safety standards exist in Portugal and are enforced.  
• Emergency services and roadside assistance are available. But speed and availability of services may vary depending on the area of service.   
• You must have an emergency kit in your car that includes several safety items. Please check your rental car for this kit.  
• If you are traveling in rural areas with limited roadside assistance, consider carrying spare tires, fuel, extra food and water, and tools.    

Traffic laws 

• Speeding, driving under the influence, and using a phone while driving are illegal. Fines are high.
• Seatbelts are required for all passengers. Small children must use a safety seat in the back with seatbelts fastened.
• If you are in a traffic accident, the Portuguese law requires you to leave your vehicle where it is and immediately call the police at 112.
• Police can issue on-the-spot fines and accept payment with portable machines.
• You can drive in Portugal with a U.S. driver’s license for up to 6 months. For an international driving permit, contact AAA or the National Auto Club.
• Many highways require a toll for use.

Taxis and ride-shares

• Taxis and prominent ride-sharing services such as Uber are regulated, generally safe and a reliable means of transportation. Exercise normal levels of caution as you would in the United States.
• Refer to the crime section of this page to alert yourself to other threats related to taxis and ride-sharing services.
•  Bus service is also reliable.

Public and commercial transportation

• In the Azores, driving can be challenging due to narrow cobblestone streets, blind curves, blind corners, and livestock on country roads.
• Public buses are inexpensive. Bus services begin at 7 a.m. and generally operate until 8 p.m., depending on the destination.
• Visit Portugal’s national tourist office website and the national authority responsible for road safety.
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad. 

Aviation safety oversight

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that Portugal’s Civil Aviation Authority meets international standards for aviation safety oversight. 

• FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.

Weather conditions

• Wildfires – The highest risk is during the hot, dry summer months of June to September. Wildfires are common in interior and forested regions. Strong winds and prolonged dry periods during this time can lead to large-scale fires.
• Flooding – Most common heavy rain events are in the autumn and winter months from October to February. Intense storms can cause flash floods, river overflows, and urban flooding.
• Heat waves and extreme temperatures –  Common in July and August, particularly in central and northeastern areas. These prolonged high temperatures cause health risks and increase the likelihood and intensity of wildfires.

Living Abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.