The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has updated its travel advice for Portugal as what promises to be an exceptionally busy summer holiday season gets underway.
As the Government’s foreign affairs department, the FCDO routinely provides guidance updates for visits to over 220 countries and territories worldwide. And its most recent warning, released on Friday morning (July 25), lets holidaymakers heading to Portugal know there may be delays.
The alert reads: “Industrial action by baggage handlers at Portuguese airports from Friday to Monday during the months of July and August may cause delays. If you are travelling over this period, check for announcements and follow the advice of your airline or tour operator.”
Portugal attracts millions of British visitors each year and ranks among the most popular destinations for UK travellers.
Current FCDO guidance reminds those planning Portuguese trips with UK passports that their documentation must have a “date of issue” within the previous decade, plus an “expiry date” extending at least three months beyond their planned departure from the Schengen zone.
Visa-free travel to the Schengen area, encompassing Portugal, is permitted for up to 90 days within any 180-day timeframe.
This applies whether you’re holidaying, visiting family, undertaking brief training or educational courses, or attending cultural or sporting occasions, as well as business meetings.
Separate regulations govern those intending to work in Portugal.