Portugal Bans Burqa and Niqab From Today, Fines Up to €3,000

Portugal has enacted a law prohibiting face coverings in public streets and common areas, imposing fines of up to **€3,000** for abusa.

## The New Law and Its Scope

Starting this Wednesday, Law **58/2026** in **Portugal** bans the use of face-covering garments in public spaces. The regulation, effective thirty days after its official publication, does not explicitly mention the burqa or niqab but refers to any attire intended to "conceal or obstruct the display of the face." This applies to public streets, places open to the public, public services, and events such as sporting competitions or demonstrations.

## Exceptions and Penalties

The law includes certain exceptions. Face coverings are permitted for health, professional, artistic, entertainment, advertising, security, or weather-related reasons. It will not apply on airplanes, in diplomatic and consular facilities, or in places of worship or spaces considered sacred. Non-compliance will be penalized with fines ranging from **€150 to €750** for negligence, and **€400 to €3,000** for intentional abusa. Security forces will oversee compliance, and municipalities will process the sanctions. The law also prohibits coercing someone to cover their face for reasons of gender, religion, age, or origin.