Commission proposes to ease restrictions on non-essential travel to the EU

4 May 2021

Today, the Commission is proposing that Member States ease the current restrictions on non-essential travel into the EU to take into account the progress of vaccination campaigns and developments in the epidemiological situation worldwide.

 

Member States should allow travel into the EU of those people who have received, at least 14 days before arrival, the last recommended dose of a vaccine having received marketing authorisation in the EU.

 

This should be facilitated once the Digital Green Certificate becomes operational, in line with the rules the Commission proposed on 17 March.


Until the Digital Green Certificate is operational, Member States should be able to accept certificates from non-EU countries based on national law, taking into account the ability to verify the authenticity, validity and integrity of the certificate and whether it contains all relevant data.


Member States could consider setting up a portal allowing travellers to ask for the recognition of a vaccination certificate issued by a non-EU country as reliable proof of vaccination and/or for the issuance of a Digital Green Certificate.

 

Source: European Commission

by Margarida Tempera 9 September 2025
Margarida Tempera | Lawyer
In practice, Article 123 is a narrow and highly discretionary instrument.
by Luís Maria Branco 8 September 2025
This provision establishes exceptional residence permits for cases outside Article 122, covering national interest, humanitarian grounds, and public activities.
With legal guidance, investors can enter Portugal’s property market confidently and minimise risks.
by Tomás Melo Ribeiro 2 September 2025
Buying property in Portugal blends lifestyle and investment. Conformity with the law ensures a valid, compliant, and protected transaction from start to finish.
You’ll need a medical stay visa—tourist visas don’t grant access to healthcare in Portugal.
by Danielle Avidago 1 September 2025
Portugal is a well-regarded destination for quality healthcare in Europe, with advanced facilities, affordable costs, and a growing international reputation.
Portugal reformed nationality laws, allowing adults born here to obtain citizenship based on birth.
by Joana Loureiro Veríssimo 26 August 2025
Many adults born in Portugal to foreign parents may be unaware that they have a legal right to acquire Portuguese nationality, even without a childhood application.
Marriage is a significant personal status act with wide legal consequences for family and property.
by Margarida Tempera 25 August 2025
For Portuguese citizens who marry abroad, the marriage is valid where it was celebrated but only gains legal effect in Portugal after being properly transcribed.
Corporate tax (IRC) exemption isn’t automatic—it requires formal approval by the Finance Minister.
by António Pratas Nunes and Tomás Melo Ribeiro 22 August 2025
In Portugal, non-profit entities like foundations and associations benefit from a distinct corporate tax regime that recognises their public interest mission.
Entry declaration within 3 days is required under Article 77 of Portugal’s Foreigners’ Law.
21 August 2025
Foreign nationals entering Portugal by land must file a PSP entry declaration within three days, as passport stamps or SIBA forms are no longer accepted as proof.
Most residence permits limit absences to 6 consecutive or 8 non-consecutive months from Portugal.
by Sara Sbai Oliveira 14 August 2025
Holding a residence permit in Portugal grants rights—but also strict obligations. Failing to meet stay requirements can lead to losing your residency status.
A start-up’s legal status defines its access to tax and legal incentives under Portuguese law.
by Margarida Resende 13 August 2025
In today’s innovation-driven economy, start-ups have emerged as agile business models, responding swiftly to the evolving demands of a tech-focused global market.
More posts