Portugal closes borders with Spain

The Portuguese Government has just announced the introduction of border controls as an additional measure to prevent the spread of the Covid-19 virus.

This measure intends to safeguard Portuguese residents as the virus is presently spreading at a much higher rate in Spain. This is a rare restriction to the freedom of movement within the Schengen Area, one of the building blocks of the European Union.

These measures will be in place for 30 days, until the 15th of April, and will be subject to reevaluation within 10 days.

The resolution approved by the Council of Ministers limits the movement of individuals but does not target the transportion of goods and supplies, nor workers who need to access to the neighboring country. In any case, Portuguese nationals and holders of residence permits will not be impeded from entering the country but can be required to undergo sanitary controls.