World News

Portugal enacts law prohibiting face coverings in public spaces

The legislation carries fines up to 3,000 euros while providing specific exemptions for health, weather, and places of worship.

Updated Aug 24, 2026 · 00:33 UTC1 reports

The short version

Portuguese President António José Seguro signed legislation largely banning public face coverings.
Individuals who conceal their faces in public spaces or force others to do so face fines between 150 and 3,000 euros.
The law includes exemptions for health, artistic, professional, and weather purposes, as well as in religious and diplomatic venues.

President António José Seguro enacted a measure adopted by parliament that largely prohibits face coverings that conceal a person's identity in public areas.[Fox News]
The law also makes it illegal to compel someone to cover their face based on religion, gender, age, or origin.[Fox News]
Violators of the ban face fines ranging from 150 euros to 3,000 euros.[Fox News]
Exemptions apply to health, weather, professional, and artistic reasons, as well as inside places of worship, diplomatic missions, and on aircraft.[Fox News]
The president's office stated the decision was grounded in principles of social integration, security, and gender equality.[Fox News]

The exact date when enforcement will begin and the specific procedures authorities will use to enforce fines have not been detailed.[Fox News]