Travelling back to uk

Hi Denbo,

I think you may be stuck in a 'Catch 22' situation ;-(

I would suggest you get some proper legal/official advice, rather than rely on my ( & others ) guessing.

My understanding of the current COVID rules in Portugal are that vacation is not permitted (the borders in to Portugal were closed to travellers).  I have not heard that this rule, implemented a few weeks ago, has been relaxed.  I am not sure where you stand already being inside Portugal, but also being on vacation.

There are similar and more restrictions on the way North towards the UK.

I travelled from Salir to Rotterdam ( both where I live and own property ) and had to leave at 05:00, at the curfew end, to get through Spain / arrive in France within a day.  I got stopped by the police on the motorway in Spain, checking why I was travelling and also had to answer questions at the toll barriers closest to borders of Spain and France.  At that time there were curfews and restrictions in some form everywhere and I have not heard that they are any less strict now.

I am not sure of the status on Ferries to UK, I know Belgium do not allow travellers in, but going to Dunkirk for the ferry - may be ok.  (I had to get across France, then through Belgium without stopping, so I could get to Rotterdam before the 9pm travel curfew in NL).

Finding a way to stay in Portugal is obviously the easiest option, if it is allowed.

Sorry I can not answer your question, but you also need to make good checks and planning in case you have to leave.

Ian

Thankyou for taking the time to give me so much information. I will have to start making my way home in a couple of weeks. Through Spain and France hopefully. If you hear of anything that might help me on my journey during this time please put it on the forum   Regards

The only thing I can add at this point is that I needed to have a negative test result, no more than 72 hours from test, to transit France.  I was never asked for it, but had them for my transits getting to and from Portugal.

You need a doctor's prescription to get it free.  My test in Portugal cost me 100 euro, but I needed it done quickly, so may find it cheaper if you have time to look around.

Again, check when you know your travel dates as things are changing every week.

Hi again Denbo,

Did you leave already?

I found this other post here, which can help you find more about staying longer !?

British staying in Portugal after 31st March - General Tavira discussion - Tavira forum - Algarve forum in the Southern Portugal province of Portugal (talkalgarveforum.com)

I hope this helps and is not too late for you to stay.

Ian

Thanks Ian. Very helpful.   Denbo

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What is the criteria for getting a social security

Number as a retired expat