Lock all valuables in hotel safes, not just in locked suitcases. Stay on top of local media weather reporting or refer to the. There have been increasing reports from all over mainland Portugal of robberies in vacation homes and online rental apartments. Portugal Be careful on public transportation. Review OSACâs operator will put you in contact with the emergency service that you require. In the Azores, lifeguards only staff public beaches during the tourist season. vacation lodging, be sure to assess and use available security features. Hospitals may not Hours of operation: Monday-Friday, 0800 to 1700 (except for U.S. and Portuguese Holidays). For more detailed information about LGBT rights in Portugal, review the State Department’s, The State Railway Operator, Comboios de Portugal (CP) has an “integrated mobility service” (SIM) aimed at helping passengers with reduced mobility: Tel +351 707 210 220. mechanically. vehicle break-ins, pickpocketing, surreptitious bag snatching) occur frequently, particularly in the major cities. Donâts for Photography, There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid programs do not provide coverage for hospital or medical costs outside the U.S. Portugal has a crime victim’s assistance program, administered through an organization known by its acronym, APAV. Suicide rates > Suicide rate (both sexes): Suicides per 100’000 residents per year. (STEP). Country-specific Vaccination and Health Guidance. U.S. Department of State strongly recommends purchasing international health Portugal regularly experiences earthquakes and tremors up to 5.0 in Portugal crime rate & statistics for 2018 was 0.79, a 6.92% increase from 2017. Motorcyclists/scooters may drive between the lanes and go to the front of traffic at stoplights, all of which can be disconcerting for drivers not used to this practice. accessibility; assistance during boarding/exiting or during the train ride; and passers-by. The Embassy’s area of responsibility includes mainland Portugal, the Azores Islands, and the Madeira archipelago. By the late 1990s, Portugal had reached a crisis point. U.S. Embassy Location and Contact Information, U.S. Embassy Lisbon Av. Portugal has experienced a notable period of The contents of this (U) report in no way represent the policies, views, or attitudes of the United States Department of State,
On São Miguel Island, in the Azores, petty crime is more likely in the areas of Ponta Delgada and Rabo de Peixe. There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBT events in Portugal. magnitude, primarily off the Atlantic coast. Ask your insurance company prior to departure if your policy applies when outside of the U.S., and if that insurance covers emergencies like a trip to a foreign hospital or an evacuation. Travel Advisory: Portugal - Level 1 (Exercise Normal Precautions). Do not be surprised if dealers offer you drugs on the street. At least 36 of Lisbon Metro’s 56 stations offer full accessibility to people with disabilities. All drivers must maintain third-party insurance coverage. Victim assistance information and resources are available on the U.S. Embassy, For medical assistance, refer to the Embassy’s, Ask your insurance company prior to departure if your policy applies when outside of the U.S., and if that insurance covers emergencies like a trip to a foreign hospital or an evacuation. Madeira are prone to occasional storms. insurance before traveling internationally. Your session will expire soon and log you out. Find further information on the FAA’s safety assessment page. For more detailed information about LGBT rights in Portugal, review the State Department’s Country Reports on Human Rights Practices for 2016. request. Organized crime is not a major issue. The U.S. Embassy in Lisbon does not assume responsibility for the professional ability or integrity of the persons or firms appearing in this report. U.S. crime rate & statistics for 2015 was 4.95, a 11.37% increase from 2014. Consult with the U.S. crime rate & statistics for 2017 was 5.32, a 1.37% decline from 2016. Please note that all OSAC products are for internal U.S. private sector security purposes only. Furthermore, rape makes up 18.7 percent of all sexual crimes reported. U.S. Consulate Ponta Delgada (São Miguel Island, Azores): https://pt.usembassy.gov/embassy-consulate/ponta-delgada/. political and social tranquility; however, economic and labor related protests Reports of unlawful Electronics and unattended luggage are particularly vulnerable to theft. The Your regular U.S. health insurance may not cover doctor and hospital visits in other countries. +351 296 308 330. External links to other internet sites should not be construed as an endorsement of the views or privacy policies contained therein, The Overseas Traveler’s Guide to ATM Skimmers & Fraud, Security in Transit: Airplanes, Public Transport, and Overnights, Country Reports on Human Rights Practices for 2016, https://pt.usembassy.gov/embassy-consulate/ponta-delgada/. Know all entry and exit points in case of a fire. emergencies like a trip to a foreign hospital or an evacuation. While recently updated laws have increased regulation of private security activities (to include bouncers at bars and nightclubs), exercise caution in dealing with nightclub security. The names of some of the companies offering short-term health and emergency assistance policies are listed under, The CDC offers additional information on vaccines and health guidance for, The Country Council in Lisbon is active, meeting biannually. Wallets and cellphones are particularly vulnerable. to people with disabilities. are present at protests to ensure adequate security for participants and The American Citizens’ Services unit (ACS) cannot recommend a particular individual or location, and assumes no responsibility for the quality of service provided. Portoâs metro system affords accessibility suitcases. Seek legal counsel for appropriate assistance for improprieties, and report incidents to the nearest U.S. Embassy/Consulate. Portuguese law requires you to If your policy does not go with you when you travel, you should take out another one for your trip. If you break local laws, your U.S. passport will not help you avoid arrest or prosecution, How to Handle Incidents of Police Detention or Harassment. The implementation of improved modern construction techniques in accordance with contemporary EU seismic protocols for large, multi-storied structures are noteworthy; however, many smaller buildings and dated residential dwellings do not incorporate such features, and are susceptible to collapse in an earthquake. “Rape” means sexual … operators are available. Portugal Crime Statistics for 2017 Land Cleaning - How measures will be enforced; Portugal will deploy more than 500 police and military personnel in Frontex missions; Ten people arrested for illegal sale of U2 concert tickets; Pre-trial detention for 13 robberies against the elderly points in case of a fire. In the 2020 Global Peace Index, Portugal is third out of 163 countries when it comes to overall safety. Additionally, CP offers discounts to residents of Portugal of up to 75% upon presentation of the cartão do deficiente (disabled person’s card). The Czech Republic dropped three spots this year, but still made it into the top 10. One of the ongoing topics here is the problem of crime. Traffic enforcement is limited, but the use of speed cameras is on the rise. Stay on top of local media weather reporting or refer to the National Authority for Civil Protection (ANPC). While cocaine is the most significant drug threat, ecstasy, hashish, and heroin are also readily available. ramps, and spaces for wheelchairs onboard metro cars. Review the State Departmentâs The. Examining this data reveals the homicide rate in Portugal has increased from 105 to 148 per 100,000 population - a 41 per cent increase. Rip tides are a serious hazard on many waterfronts in mainland Portugal and the Azores. Mainland Portugal and the outlying islands of the Azores and Madeira are prone to occasional storms. Even peaceful demonstrations can become violent and unpredictable; you should avoid them if possible. detention, intimidation, harassment, and graft are rare. The names of some of the companies offering short-term health and emergency assistance policies are listed under insurance information on the Department of State website. SIM staff ensure train and station Petty thefts and other crimes of opportunity (e.g. Lock all valuables in hotel safes, not just in locked Always drive with your windows up and doors locked, especially when stopped at intersections. The tourist area of Sintra reports a particularly high rate of these break-ins; take special care when parking in the areas around the castles and palaces there. In remote locations and in historic city centers, traffic lanes are very narrow and can be difficult to navigate. The drivers of the vehicles involved must exchange details and both/all parties complete the. The drivers of the vehicles involved must exchange details and Thieves often loiter in tourist locations, near beaches, and at transportation hubs (e.g. For additional information, visit CP’s website. There are, however, elevators and moving walkways at main stations that provide access from the platform to street level, as well as payment machines adapted for passengers with disabilities and/or visual impairment. U.S Geological Survey (USGS). Cybercrime, in the form of online extortion and IT scams, is on the rise. impairment. protocols for large, multi-storied structures are noteworthy; however, many All highways have tolls. Advisory System, The It still is low compared to other developed countries and has decreased in the 2000s. There is also an SOS immigrant line with English speaking operators ready to help you in case of emergency. However, high-speed driving, bad weather, and unskilled drivers contribute to accidents, including rollovers and those involving multiple vehicles, sometimes resulting in serious injuries or fatalities. from hotel rooms. Petty thefts and other crimes of opportunity (e.g. their vehicles and deploy it in the case of an emergency. representatives with an OSAC password. Bus and train/metro systems are reliable. Additionally, CP offers discounts to residents of Portugal of up to 75% upon presentation of the, At least 36 of Lisbon Metro’s 56 stations offer full accessibility to people with disabilities. While SIM service is free of charge, you must request information or assistance at least 48 hours before travel. modern construction techniques in accordance with contemporary EU seismic flash floods that can cause deaths, significant damage, and considerable Storms in the islands have created Many local establishments will only accept cash payments or credit cards with a chip. erosion. otherwise distributing OSAC-derived information in a manner inconsistent with this policy may result in the discontinuation of OSAC support. Since 2001 “personal use” quantities of drugs have been decriminalized, but drug possession is still prohibited. The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government’s Civil Aviation Authority as compliant with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Portugal’s air carrier operations. The emergency number is 112, and English-speaking operators are available on request. 5 Years After: Portugal's Drug Decriminalization Policy Shows Positive Results Street drug–related deaths from overdoses drop and the rate of HIV cases crashes By Brian Vastag on April 7, … For more information on home sharing, review OSAC’s Report, For traffic accidents and emergencies, dial 112. for original OSAC reporting, consular messages, and contact U.S. Department of State has assessed Lisbon as being a, Sexual assaults against women are rare. SIM staff provide for train and station accessibility; assistance during boarding/exiting or during the train ride; and with trip planning. Although neither a center of drug production nor a significant source of drugs destined for the U.S., Portugal is a gateway for drugs entering Europe, particularly from South America and western Africa. back down to the lobby and report the incident to the front desk. or the United States Government, except as otherwise noted (e.g., travel advisories, public statements). U.S. Department of State has assessed Lisbon and Ponta Delgada as being. There are, however, elevators and moving walkways at main Overall, 408 crimes were reported, up 73 on 2016 and the highest number registered since 2010. ), violent crimes (being mugged or robbed, being attacked or insulted), corruption and other crimes. Drivers must keep a reflective vest and triangle in Do not get off on your floor or go to your hotel room if you feel someone is following you; go back down to the lobby and report the incident to the front desk. There are, however, elevators and moving walkways at main stations that provide access from the platform to street level, as well as payment machines adapted for passengers with disabilities and/or visual impairment. Check Lisbon Metro’s. When renting Pickpockets take advantage of crowds getting on/off of all forms of public transportation, using the jostling of the crowd as a distraction. Highways are in exceptional condition, and secondary roads are generally of good quality and maintained well. Taxis can charge additional fees related to baggage, not including handbags. for more information. Hospitals may not have staff members fluent in English. Interested private-sector security managers should contact OSAC’s Europe Team with any questions. Portugal has a relatively low crime rate, but non-violent street crime is common. This information, some of which may be available only to private-sector Crime in the Algarve 2018 The annual crime statistics released by Government a few days ago showed that overall reported crime in the Algarve decreased slightly from 21,907 cases in 2017 to 21,680 last year (i.e. Mainland Portugal and the outlying islands of the Azores and Check Lisbon Metroâs. times, secure belongings, and lock windows while away or sleeping. Avoid using ATMs in isolated or poorly lighted areas, or on open sidewalks; instead, use machines inside bank alcoves, and secure cash and belongings before departing the bank area. Portugal has strict privacy laws that govern the release of especially in the summer, can be devastating and occur with little warning. Many local establishments will only accept cash payments or credit cards with a chip. Cybercrime, in the form of online extortion and IT scams, continue Honduras has the world's highest murder rate, with 90.4 homicides per 100,000 people. Security In Transit: Details Published: Saturday, 02 January 2021 12:29 Hits: 1115 Portugal is among the countries where people are most invested in football and it shows. Portugal is a multi-ethnic/religious country, and a harmonious relationship generally exists among all groups. Portugal is generally a very homogenous country from a racial, a religious, and other perspectives. verification if someone claims to be hotel staff. sidewalks; instead, use machines inside bank alcoves, and secure cash and Would you like to continue with this session or log out? but some vehicles may not be equipped to load and secure wheelchairs In 2019, the Portuguese police registered 89 attempted homicides consummated in Portugal, down from 110 murder cases reported a year earlier. doctors and hospitals still expect payment in cash at the time of service. features, and are susceptible to collapse in an earthquake. accept cash payments or credit cards with a chip. Portugal has a crime victimâs assistance program, The call for self-radicalization, whether disseminated on extremist forums or via the broader approach via social media, continues to be a global concern. Level 1, indicating travelers should exercise normal precautions. For more information, review OSAC’s Report, Security in Transit: Airplanes, Public Transport, and Overnights. the State Departmentâs Crime Victims Assistance, For social welfare emergencies (domestic violence, child abuse), The implementation of improved modern construction techniques in accordance with contemporary EU seismic protocols for large, multi-storied structures are noteworthy; however, many smaller buildings and dated residential dwellings do not incorporate such features, and are susceptible to collapse in an earthquake. Your regular U.S. health insurance may not cover doctor and hospital visits in other countries. Take local advice and learn the system of colored safety flags on supervised beaches: green means safe to swim; yellow means swim with caution; red means swimming forbidden. Smart Traveler Enrollment Program Do not open your hotel door to anyone you do not know; check with the front desk for verification if someone claims to be hotel staff. Particularly problematic are drivers who fail to properly merge, yield, and safely change lanes, as well as drivers disregarding traffic control signals. vehicle break-ins, pickpocketing, surreptitious bag snatching) occur frequently, particularly in the major cities. In 2015, rape rate for Portugal was 3.6 cases per 100,000 population. Bouncers are prone to violence, and police often struggle to find evidence or witnesses to any events related to an escalation of force by the security staff. I offer retreats & culinary programs marketed at women solo travelers a couple of times a year. Police can fine those Law enforcement officers refer individuals found to have “personal use” amounts to the Drug Addiction Dissuasion Commission, consisting of multi-disciplinary teams charged with assessing users and deciding the appropriate sanction as well as referral to educational or treatment programs. available on the website of the Portugal Tourism Board. Eastern European criminal organizations are present, and predominantly engage in racketeering, extortion, and vice-related criminal activity (e.g. In many places, doctors and hospitals still expect payment in cash at the time of service. Bus services Know all entry and exit unattended. Picture This: Dos and Law enforcement and security officials, in close cooperation with neighboring countries, maintain an effective anti-terrorism effort and a welcoming environment for tourism and business. Sexual assaults against women are rare. The (São Miguel Island, The CDC offers additional information on vaccines and health guidance for Portugal. Taxis are a reliable means of transportation, though you should be alert to possible discrepancies between the meter fare and the amount requested by the driver. Historically there has been very, very little violent crime in the Algarve, which continues to be the case. Mainland Portugal, the Azores, and Madeira are all in earthquake Calls to. The document was compiled from various
Rape was the crime that most rose in Portugal last year, according to the RASI report. Bus services begin at 7 a.m. and generally operate until 8 p.m., depending on the destination. Do not get off Porto’s metro system affords accessibility for passengers with disabilities system-wide with a network of elevators, ramps, and spaces for wheelchairs onboard metro cars. Avoid using ATMs in isolated or poorly lighted areas, or on open sidewalks; instead, use machines inside bank alcoves, and secure cash and belongings before departing the bank area. Most allow cash payment, but some smaller connecting highways only take electronic methods. Facing unprecedented rates of addiction, prison overcrowding, and a rapidly growing HIV … on your floor or go to your hotel room if you feel someone is following you; go A 5.2-magnitude earthquake hit 150 miles off Portugal’s Atlantic coast in September 2018. The card is available from CP ticket offices and is valid for two years. It is also against the law to take photos or When renting vacation lodging, be sure to assess and use available security features. To qualify, applicants must have a Portuguese taxpayer ID number and provide certified proof of both disability and annual income. places a premium on privacy rights and individual freedoms. Portuguese law enforcement authorities are professional. disabilities. While SIM service is There are no reduced fares for passengers with Waves can appear from nowhere, and can sweep people out to sea or into sharp rocks, even right from the water’s edge. Public transportation vehicles in general have specially reserved seats for individuals with disabilities, but some vehicles may not be equipped to load and secure wheelchairs mechanically. belongings before departing the bank area. ATMs are widespread and accept most U.S. cards for fund withdrawals. A 5.2-magnitude earthquake hit 150 miles off Portugal’s Atlantic coast in September 2018. Note that the Azores time zone is one hour ahead of continental Portugal. For more information on self-driving, review OSAC’s Report, The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government’s Civil Aviation Authority as compliant with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Portugal’s air carrier operations. Passengers with visual disabilities can travel with their guide dogs as long as their service animals are leashed and muzzled. Be cognizant of local culture and team colors when traveling in the area of or attending a game. reports of women having their drinks drugged in bars in the Bairro Alto area. , and English-speaking operators are available on to taking a photo or video. Lock doors at all accommodation very different than in the United States. Consult with the U.S Geological Survey (USGS). For updated local weather, consult the Portuguese Institute for Sea at the date of this report’s publication assesses Portugal at Level 1, indicating travelers should exercise normal precautions. Shows how much people think the problem in their community are property crimes (home broken, car theft, etc. Do not take a drink from someone you do not know, and never leave your drink English-speaking The increase in tourism has also sparked increased reports of thefts However, there have been reports of women having their drinks drugged in bars in the Bairro Alto area. There is no racial or social unrest. Additionally, CP offers discounts to Portugal residents of up to both/all parties complete the, ; Download Portugal … otherwise distributing OSAC-derived information in a manner inconsistent with this policy may result in the discontinuation of OSAC support. Sometimes fights occur leading up to and just following soccer matches. the organization of LGBT events in Portugal. To ensure that the U.S. government is aware of your circumstances, request that the police and prison officials notify the U.S. Embassy or Consulate upon arrest or detention. I know that in recent years there has been a small increase in violence but when I compare crime rates in the Algarve to other major tourist destinations, I still see it as a very safe place. It is against record images of the general public without their permission. Portugal has experienced a notable period of political and social tranquility; however, recent economic uncertainties have resulted in civil discontent manifesting in generally peaceful protests, on average about five or six protests a month, according to government statistics. Criminal incidents occur with less frequency in Madeira and significantly less in the Azores than in mainland Portugal. All public demonstrations require prior police approval; police If you or someone you know becomes the victim of a crime, contact the local police and the nearest U.S. Embassy/Consulate. The very good news is that violent crime in the region decreased by 7.3% to 921 cases. National Authority for Civil Protection (ANPC), Av. Thieves often loiter in tourist locations, near beaches, and at transportation hubs (e.g. ceremony or at a tourist location. Mainland Portugal and the outlying islands of the Azores and Madeira are prone to occasional storms. In the Azores, taxis do not have meters; the fare consists of a base fee plus a posted rate per distance traveled. Theft of belongings from inside vehicles has risen significantly as the number of tourists to Portugal has increased. Review OSACâs reports, The Overseas Travelerâs Guide to ATM Fines for speeding violations registered by radar arrive to the offender via the postal service. Bureau of Diplomatic Security
The State Railway Operator, Comboios de Portugal (CP) has an “integrated mobility service” (SIM) aimed at helping passengers with reduced mobility: Tel +351 707 210 220. average and stands at one-fiftieth of the United States’. your hotel door to anyone you do not know; check with the front desk for From the earliest age, Portuguese boys dream of becoming the next Cristiano Ronaldo, Rui Costa or the legendary Eusebio. Consult with the U.S Geological Survey (USGS) website for information on earthquakes including preparedness. The implementation of improved Review OSAC’s Portugal-specific page for original OSAC reporting, consular messages, and contact information, some of which may be available only to private-sector representatives with an OSAC password. U.S. crime rate & statistics for 2016 was 5.39, a 8.91% increase from 2015. In Lisbon and other large cities, be mindful of beggars or street performers at intersections. SIM staff provide for train and station accessibility; assistance during boarding/exiting or during the train ride; and with trip planning. have staff members fluent in English. Occasionally, inter-ethnic disputes may arise in depressed neighborhoods owing more to socio–economic pressures rather than an ethnic conflict or clash of political/religious ideologies. Most crimes, especially violent crimes, are committed by those ages 20-30. is an annual report produced in conjunction with the Regional Security Office Some train stations are equipped with elevators. In many places, Be cautious when turning your back to the sea. Passengers with visual disabilities can travel with their guide dogs Many local establishments will only For more information, review OSAC’s Report Shaken: The Don’ts of Alcohol Abroad. It is also against the law to take photos or record images of the general public without their permission. Portugal has a relatively low rate crime, but non-violent street crime is common. ATMs are widespread and accept most U.S. cards for fund withdrawals. Thieves often loiter in tourist locations, near beaches, and at transportation hubs (e.g. U.S. crime rate & statistics for 2018 was 4.96, a 6.77% decline from 2017. (“Friendly Agreement” accident report), which each driver submits to their own insurance company. Interested private-sector security managers should contact OSAC’s.