Due to concerns about the new variant of COVID-19 discovered in Brazil, Portugal has become one of the latest countries to face a travel ban. 

Due to the “strong travel ties” between these countries and South America, travel between the UK and Portugal will be suspended. 

The Secretary of State for Transport Grant Shapps announced in a tweet: “Due to Portugal’s close travel ties with Brazil, travel from Portugal to the UK will also be suspended – this is another way to reduce the risk of imported infections. However, transporters departing from Portugal (only) can be exempted from transporting basic items.” 

The new rules do not apply to British and Irish nationals or nationals of third countries who have the right of abode in the UK. However, they will face strict isolation rules. 

Mr. Shapps added: “Travelers returning from these destinations must be quarantined with their families for 10 days.”