Entered into force at zero hours on Saturday, day 25 of December, the new measures to contain the covid-19 pandemic.
The Government decided to bring forward the entry into force and reinforced the approved measures, given the rapid spread of the new omicron variant of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Focus on strengthening testing and reducing contacts.
early containment week: Many of the measures were anticipated compared to what had been approved by the Council of Ministers of 25 November, like “contention week” – was expected to take place between 2 and 9 of January but effective from zero hours of 25 of December.
Mandatory teleworking: telework is mandatory, for all supported functions, in order to reduce contacts after family get-togethers at Christmas.
Closing of day care centers and ATL's: Closing day care centers and free time workshops (ATL), planned for a “contention week” in January, was anticipated and is in force between 27 and 31 of December, with the Government ensuring support for families. Read more here.
Discos and bars closed: Discos and bars with dance space are closing again, after reopening in October at the end of 18 months locked up. The Government defined new rules for the Apoiar program, which is intended to partially cover the invoicing breaks. The support ceilings increase and are, for the first time, extended to the Culture sector. Read more here.
Six free trials per month: The number of free covid-19 screening tests done in pharmacies and labs increases from four to six per person each month, under the exceptional and temporary regime that provides for its contribution.
Mandatory negative test: A negative test is mandatory for access to hotels and local accommodation establishments, as well as for business events and family parties, like weddings or christenings. Access to sporting and cultural events will also depend on the presentation of a negative test for the coronavirus, regardless of the number of viewers.
Capacity in stores: The capacity of commercial spaces is now limited to one person for every five square meters to avoid gatherings that take place the week after Christmas to exchange gifts.
Balances and exchanges: “Between the days 25 December 2021 and 9 January 2022 are prohibited, in establishment, commercial practices with price reduction”, defined the government. And the period for product returns and exchanges will be extended: “The deadline for exercising consumer rights, that ends between days 26 December and 9 January, or in the ten days after that period, is extended until 31 January 2022”.
Restrictions for the New Year: In the days 30 and 31 December and 1 January (New Year), it will be mandatory to submit a negative test to access restaurants, casinos and New Year's Eve parties. Gatherings of more than ten people on public roads are prohibited on New Year's Eve., as well as the consumption of alcoholic beverages on the street.
