Portugal

You must provide photo ID if asked by a police officer. The police have the right to hold you at a police station until they have confirmed your identity. It is mandatory to carry ID when driving.

Gambling is only legal in places licensed by the government, such as official casinos. Games of chance, including bingo, are illegal if they’re held on unlicensed premises.

The police may act on reports of illegal gambling in unauthorised premises without warning. You could be arrested, charged and fined or given a prison sentence. If in doubt, ask if the venue is licensed.

Illegal drugs, including cannabis, carry severe penalties. You should expect a long jail sentence and heavy fines for smuggling illegal drugs, including when transiting through the airport.

Airports in Portugal have excellent technology and security for detecting illegal items. This is also used to scan the baggage of transiting passengers.

The municipality of Albufeira has introduced a Code of Conduct which bans inappropriate behaviour in public places. Check out the rules that are now in force. If you break the rules, you could be fined on the spot from between 150 and 1800 euros.

In Summer months, there is a risk of higher than normal temperatures in Portugal. Check current weather forecasts and read about how to protect yourself on the Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere website.

Find advice on how to stay safe in hot weather from the National Health Service (NHS).

Check with your travel provider and follow advice from local authorities.

There is an increased risk of wildfires from April to October when the weather is hot and dry. Wildfires can start anywhere in Portugal.

Wildfires are highly dangerous and unpredictable. The Portuguese authorities may evacuate areas and close roads for safety reasons. You should:

• check the fire risk index for your location (in Portuguese)
• familiarise yourself with local safety and emergency procedures
• follow the advice of the Portuguese authorities
• call the emergency services on 112 if you see a fire

Starting a fire, even if it is by accident, is illegal and you could get a fine or a prison sentence. 

For information about active wildfires and forecasts, visit the Portuguese Met Office website for information on Portugal and Madeira.

Earthquakes are a risk in Portugal. For more information, see the Portuguese Met Office (for mainland Portugal) or the Earthquake Information and Surveillance Centre (for the Azores).

The US Federal Emergency Management Agency website has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake.

For severe weather warnings, go to the European Meteorological Services website.