Portugal bans face coverings in public with fines up to 3,000 euros

Portugal's President António José Seguro has signed into law a ban on face coverings in public spaces, a measure widely seen as targeting Muslim women who wear full-face veils. The legislation, which has drawn criticism from human rights groups and left-wing parties, was promulgated on August 18, 2026, following its approval by parliament in July.

The law prohibits the wearing of any garment designed to conceal the face or prevent identification in public. It also criminalizes forcing any person to cover their face on grounds of gender, religion, age, or origin. In a statement issued late Tuesday, President Seguro said, "The face must be considered a central element of human identity and communication." He acknowledged the issue was one of "great social and cultural sensitivity" and noted that amendments made during the parliamentary process had persuaded him to sign the decree.

Violators face fines ranging from 150 to 3,000 euros. The penalties are tiered, with lower fines for negligent breaches and higher ones for intentional violations. Forcing another person to cover their face carries a potential prison sentence of up to three years. Exemptions are provided for health,...