As travel and holiday planning become priorities for many, DECO PROTeste emphasizes the importance of meticulous preparations beyond just ticket purchases and packing.
The consumer protection organization advises, “Many considerations are related to necessary documentation, but there are also health precautions to consider. To secure the best deals, purchase tickets in advance. Plan your trip carefully to avoid complications.”
According to DECO PROTeste, travelers should address a comprehensive checklist prior to departure, deserving thorough attention.
- “Check your passport’s validity for the destination. Be informed about each country’s entry requirements. Scheduling an appointment for a passport is advisable as processing takes days unless expedited. Some countries, like Singapore, require passport validity for up to six months post-travel. Passport costs may range from 65 to 135 euros, depending on urgency.
- Regarding travel to the United Kingdom, including layovers, since October 1, 2021, Portuguese non-residents must present a valid passport. As of April 2, an electronic travel authorization is mandatory, valid for two years or until passport expiry. This allows multiple UK visits while valid. For those with permanent (settled) or temporary (pre-settled) resident status, only an identity card with the respective code suffices, unless post-December 31 when non-biometric documents necessitate a passport. Expect delays at border controls for UK travel, necessitating earlier airport arrivals for both departures and returns.
- Some countries require visas for entry. Consult travel agencies, diplomatic representations, or use the email vi****@*ne.pt. Secure necessary documents before departure.
- Ensure your ID card’s validity. Renew immediately if expiry is imminent within six months. When traveling to any of the 29 Schengen Area countries (mostly EU members plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland), this ID suffices. Do note that a driver’s license isn’t a valid ID document. Ensure your ID card’s dates cover your travel span. Although the id.gov.pt app is increasingly recognized, its mandatory acceptance is limited to boarding in Portugal while traveling internationally.
- To drive in your destination country, ensure your driver’s license is valid and recognized. Verify this through the local embassy or consulate. If uncertain, obtain an international driving license in advance.
- Confirm you possess necessary travel mechanisms, especially financial provisions should your stay extend.
- Validate your bank cards (debit/credit) abroad. Apps like Revolut might be beneficial, offering free service in over 150 countries and allowing on-the-spot currency exchange.
- Register your trip with Travel Registration via the Communities Portal’s form, emailing ge*@*ne.pt, or using the portal app. Registration is voluntary and free, providing travelers destination security information and access to Portuguese diplomatic and consular contacts plus the Consular Emergency Office.
- Make copies of your passport and accommodation contacts, sending them to family or friends for emergency purposes.
Familiarize yourself with travel regulations when accompanying minors. Consult resources like the Communities Portal, Diplomatic Portal, and Re-open EU for European country security updates. - Consider purchasing travel insurance, factoring in the travel type, destination, and duration.
- For complaints about organized trips, use the designated complaint books (online or physical) provided by travel agencies. For compensation claims, contact the Portuguese Association of Travel Agencies and Tourism Ombudsman at 213 553 010 or pr******@***********vt.com. Alternatively, reach out to Turismo de Portugal for an assessment by an arbitration committee that decides on compensation eligibility.”
