Britons in Portugal given fresh guidance on travelling with children - follow rules or risk being refused entry
Britons have been given essential new information
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Britons flock to Portugal year after year in search of beautiful sandy beaches, gorgeous nature, vibrant nightlife and delicious local cuisine - all at an affordable price.
But despite its popularity with tourists, it's important that holidaymakers consult the UK Government's advice before travelling to this European destination. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) recently issued a new warning regarding travelling with children who are not their own.
The FCDO issued essential information about non-resident children travelling to Portugal.
Holidaymakers were told: "Children aged 17 and under travelling to Portugal alone, or with a person who is not their parent or legal guardian, must either be met at the airport or point of entry by their parent or guardian, or carry a letter of authorisation to travel from their parent or guardian. The parent/guardian’s signature must be certified by a solicitor or notary.
"Make sure the letter includes the child’s dates of arrival and departure, the address where they will be staying, the name of the adult in Portugal who will be responsible for them during their stay, the full names, dates of birth, passport numbers and contact details of the parent or guardian and the parent or guardian’s signature and date of issue.
Portugal is an extremely popular holiday destination among Britons
GETTY IMAGES"If you bring a child to Portugal without a properly certified letter of authorisation, your entry will be delayed and may be refused.
"Teenagers aged 17 and under who travel alone, or with friends of the same age, and who are not being met, may be refused entry if they do not have a letter of authorisation."
The FCDO also issued important information about non-resident children leaving Portugal.
Britons were told: "Non-resident children aged 17 and under who leave Portugal alone, or with a person who is not their parent or guardian, must have a properly certified letter of authorisation unless they are returning to their country of origin."
The FCDO added: "A child aged 17 or under who is resident in Portugal must carry a properly certified letter of authorisation if travelling without their parent or legal guardian. See more details in the Living in Portugal guide."
The FCDO also issued important safety information for holidaymakers hiking in Madeira and the Azores.
Travellers were warned: "Hiking in Madeira and the Azores can be challenging. Choose paths that suit your fitness and experience.
"Be prepared for narrow, uneven paths and heights. Wear suitable clothing and walking boots. Take extra care if it has rained, as the ground may be slippery and unstable. Check with your tour guide or local organiser that it is safe before you set off.
Leave details of where you are going with your hotel reception and take a phone with you. Reduce the risk by walking with a group or following a guide.
"See more information about staying safe, walkway closures and access restrictions on Visit Madeira and Visit Azores."
Britons planning a trip to Portugal should consult the FCDO's up-to-date information on the destination, including warnings and insurance, entry requirements, safety and security, health and getting help in the event of an emergency.
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'Hiking in Madeira and the Azores can be challenging'
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Portugal isn't the only country Britons have been issued new guidance about in recent days and weeks.
Britons were given a travel warning for France as holidaymakers won't be able to visit some parts of the country this summer.
Holidaymakers were also given an Africa travel warning as a popular destination presents a life-threatening danger.
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