The decree has already been published in the Official Gazette and provides for fines of up to €3,000 for those who do not comply with the law.

Law 58/2026 prohibits the use of clothing or accessories that conceal the face in public spaces. The same law also specifies that it is strictly forbidden to "coerce any person to conceal their face for reasons of gender, religion, age or origin".

For the purposes of the law, public spaces will be considered to be "public roads, as well as places open to the public, dedicated to public service, and places where services are provided that are generally accessible to citizens".

Fines of up to €3,000

Violation of the prohibition against concealing one's face "is punishable by a fine of €150 to €750 in cases of negligence, and €400 to €3,000 in cases of intent."

Those who violate the prohibition against concealing their face may have to pay fines between €150 and €750 in cases of negligence. Fines can range from €400 to €3,000 in cases of intent. In the case of forcing someone to hide their face, the law provides for imprisonment of up to two years or a fine of up to 240 days. The amounts mentioned increase by one-third if the victim is a minor.

Exceptions in the law

Despite what the law stipulates, the legislation provides exceptions in cases involving health, professional, and even artistic or advertising matters. The exceptions do not apply “to aircraft, diplomatic and consular facilities, as well as places of worship or other sacred sites.”

Security forces should enforce this, and municipalities should instruct the police to apply fines when applicable.

Set The Portugal News as your preferred source for news on Google

GoogleAdd as a preferred source on Google