PORTUGAL
Compiled from the February 2005 Background Note and supplemented with additional information from the State Department and the editors of this volume. See the introduction to this set for explanatory notes.
Official Name:
Portuguese Republic
PROFILE
Geography
Area: 92,391 sq. km., including the Azores and Madeira Islands; slightly smaller than the State of Indiana.
Cities: Lisbon (capital, metropolitan area pop. 1.9 million), Oporto (metro. area 1.7 million), Faro.
Terrain: Mountainous in the north; rolling plains in the central south.
Climate: Maritime temperate, average annual temperature is 16°C (61°F).
People
Nationality: Noun and adjective-Portuguese (singular and plural).
Population: (2003) 10.4 million.
Population density: 113 per sq. km. (275 per sq. mi.).
Annual growth rate: (2003) -1.3%.
Ethnic groups: Homogeneous Mediterranean stock with small black African and Eastern European minorities.
Religions: Roman Catholic, 97%.
Languages: Portuguese.
Education: Years compulsory—9. Literacy (2003)—93%.
Health: (2003 est.) Birth rate—11.45/1,000. Death rate—10.21/1,000. Infant mortality rate—5/1,000. Life expectancy—76 years.
Work force: (5.1 million) Government and services—60%; industry-30%; agriculture—10%.
Government
Type: Republic.
Constitution: Effective April 25, 1976; revised October 30, 1982, June 1, 1989, November 5, 1992, and September 3, 1997.
Branches: Executive—president (head of state), Council of State (presidential advisory body), prime minister (head of government), Council of Ministers. Legislative—unicameral Assembly of the Republic (230 deputies). Judicial—Supreme Court, district courts, appeals courts, Constitutional Tribunal.
Administrative subdivisions: 18 districts, 2 autonomous regions.
Political parties: Social Democratic Party (PSD), Socialist Party (PS), Popular Party (CDS/PP), Portuguese Communist Party (PCP), Left Bloc (BE).
Economy
GDP: (2003) $147.23 billion.
Annual growth rate: -1.3%.
Per capita GDP: (2003) $14,090.
Avg. inflation rate: (2003) 3.3%.
Natural resources: Fish, tungsten, iron, copper, tin, and uranium ores.
Agriculture: Products—forestry, fisheries, cork, wine.
Industry: Types—textiles, clothing, footwear, wood and cork, paper, chemicals, manufacturing, food and beverages.
Services: Commerce, government, housing, banking and finance.
Trade: (2003) Exports—$32.2 billion; clothing, footwear, machinery, cork and paper products, petroleum, textiles. Imports—$46.3 billion: machinery, petroleum, textiles, agricultural products, chemicals. Export partners—EU-15 (81.4%), United States (5.8%), Lusophone Africa (3.2%). Import partners—EU-15 (76.6%), other European countries (6.3%), Africa (4.8%) United States (1.9%), Japan (1.7%). U.S. trade (2003) Exports—$902 million: textiles; valves, tubes, transistors, semiconductors; cork; petroleum oils; footwear; alcoholic beverages; pottery; office machine parts; men's apparel; non-electric machinery parts. Imports—__BODY__.856 billion: valves, tubes, transistors, semiconductors; aircraft and associated equipment; oil seeds and oleaginous fruits; animal feed; vehicle and tractor parts; telecommunications equipment and parts; engines; automatic data processing machines; coal; fish.
GOVERNMENT AND POLITICAL CONDITIONS
Portugal moved from authoritarian rule to parliamentary democracy following the 1974 military coup against dictator Marcello Caetano, himself a continuation of the long-running dictatorship of Antonio Salazar. After a period of instability and communist agitation, Portugal ratified a new Constitution in 1976. Subsequent revisions of the Constitution placed the military under strict civilian control; trimmed the powers of the president; and laid the groundwork for a stable, pluralistic liberal democracy, as well as privatization of nationalized firms and the government-owned communications media. Portugal joined the European Union in 1986, and has moved toward greater political and economic integration with Europe ever since.
The four main branches of the national government are the presidency, the prime minister and Council of Ministers (the government), the Assembly of the Republic (the parliament), and the judiciary. The president, elected to a 5-year term by direct, universal suffrage, also is commander in chief of the armed forces. Presidential powers include confirming the prime minister and Council of Ministers; dismissing the prime minister; dissolving the assembly to call early elections; vetoing legislation, which may be overridden by the assembly; and declaring a state of war or siege. The Council of State, a presidential advisory body, is composed of six senior civilian officers, former presidents elected under the 1976 constitution, five members chosen by the assembly, and five selected by the president.
The government is headed by the prime minister, who is nominated by the assembly for confirmation by the president. The prime minister then names the Council of Ministers. A new government is required to present its governing platform to the assembly for approval.
The Assembly of the Republic is a unicameral body composed of up to 230 deputies. Elected by universal suffrage according to a system of proportional representation, deputies serve terms of office of 4 years, unless the president dissolves the assembly and calls for new elections. The national Supreme Court is the court of last appeal. Military, administrative, and fiscal courts are designated as separate court categories. A nine-member Constitutional Tribunal reviews the constitutionality of legislation.
The Azores and Madeira Islands have constitutionally mandated autonomous status. A regional autonomy statute promulgated in 1980 established the Government of the Autonomous Region of the Azores; the Government of the Autonomous Region of Madeira operates under a provisional autonomy statute in effect since 1976. Continental Portugal is divided into 18 districts, each headed by a governor appointed by the Minister of Internal Administration. Macau, a former dependency, reverted to Chinese sovereignty in December 1999.
Current Administration
National elections in March 2002 returned the Social Democratic Party (PSD) to power after a 6-year absence, with a plurality of the vote and legislative seats. The new Prime Minister, Jose Manuel Durao Barroso, formed an alliance with the conservative Popular Party (CDS/PP), giving the ruling coalition an absolute majority in the parliament. President Jorge Sampaio is a member of the opposition Socialist Party (PS). The government committed itself to public-sector austerity and business incentives to promote growth, trade, and productivity. Its challenges include rising unemployment, meeting euro-zone fiscal requirements, and adapting to European Union and NATO enlargement. Durao Barroso resigned in July 2004 to become President of the European Commission, and President Sampaio asked the former mayor of Lisbon and the new PSD leader, Pedro Santana Lopes, to form a new government. On July 17, 2004, President Sampaio swore in Lopes' new government, preserving the PSD/CDS/PP ruling coalition.
Principal Government Officials
Last Updated: 7/27/04
President: Sampaio, Jorge
Prime Minister: Santana Lopes, Pedro
Min. of Agriculture, Fisheries, & Forests: de Costa Neves, Carlos
Min. for Cities, Local Administration, Housing, & Regional Development: Arnault, Jose Luis
Min. of Culture: Bustorff Silva, Maria Joao
Min. of Economy: Tavares, Carlos
Min. of Education: do Carmo da Costa Seabra, Maria
Min. of Environment & of Territorial Planning: Nobre Guedes, Luis
Min. of Finances & Public Administration: Bagao Felix, Antonio
Min. of Foreign Affairs & of thePortuguese Communities: Monteiro, Antonio
Min. of Health: Pereira, Luis Filipe
Min. of Internal Administration: Sanches, Daniel
Min. of Justice: de Aguiar Branco, Jose Pedro
Min. of Parliamentary Affairs: Gomes da Silva, Rui
Min. of Public Works, Transportation, & Communications: Mexia, Antonio
Min. of Science & Innovation & Higher Education: Carvalho, Graca
Min. of Social Security, Family, & Children: Negrao, Fernando
Min. of Tourism: Correia, Telmo
Min. of State and the Presidency: Morais Sarmento, Nuno
Min. of State, National Defense & Affairs of the Sea: Portas, Paulo
Min. of State, Economic Affairs, & Labor: Barreto, Alvaro
Adjunct Min. to the Prime Minister: Chaves, Henrique
Sec. of State for the Presidency of the Council of Ministers: Jeronimo, Domingos
Governor, Bank of Portugal: Constancio, Victor
Ambassador to the US: Catarino, Pedro Manuel Dos Reis Alves
Permanent Representative to the UN, New York: de Santa Clara Gomes, Goncalo Aires
Portugal maintains an embassy in the United States at 2012 Massachusetts Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20036, Tel. 202-350-5400; Fax 202-462-3726 and consulates general in New York City, Boston, San Francisco, and Newark, NJ; consulates in Providence, RI and New Bedford, MA; and honorary consulates in Honolulu, Los Angeles, Houston, New Orleans, Chicago, Philadelphia, Miami, San Juan, and Waterbury. The Portuguese National Tourist Office in the United States is located at 590 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10036 (tel: 212-354-4403).
ECONOMY
Portugal's membership in the European Union (EU) contributed to stable economic growth, largely through increased trade and an inflow of EU funds for infrastructure improvements. Until recently, average annual growth rates consistently exceeded those of the EU average. Due to slow economic growth, Portugal has lost ground relative to the rest of the EU since 2002. In 2002, Portuguese per capital GDP was 70.9% of the EU-15 average. In 2005, it is expected to be 65.1%. Portugal's per capital GDP is behind that of new members Slovenia, Malta, and Cyprus and, since 2002, Greece.
In order to enter the European Monetary Union (EMU) in January 1999, Portugal agreed to cut its fiscal deficit and undertake structural reforms. The EMU brought exchange rate stability, lower inflation, and lower interest rates. Falling interest rates, in turn, lowered the cost of public debt and helped the country achieve its fiscal targets. However, private sector borrowing increased dramatically. By 2001, the economy was in serious external imbalance, with a large current and capital account deficit. Portugal was the first country to breach the Eurozone's Stability and Growth Pact budget deficit target of 3%, with a gap equal to 4.2% of GDP. The Government of Portugal (GOP) met the 3% target in 2002 and 2003, but only with substantial one-off revenues. Despite a hiring freeze and other measures, the Portuguese government had a structural budget deficit in 2004 projected at 4.9%. In 2004, public spending is expected to equal 47.9% of GDP. Despite EU requirements to maintain fiscal austerity, the 2005 budget presented by the new Santana Lopes government in October 2004 projects a structural deficit in excess of 3.0%, and violates the 60% limit on public debt.
The Portuguese economy experienced a 1.3% decline in 2003 but has shown a slight recovery in 2004. The recovery is expected to continue through 2005 with growth projected at 2.2% by the European Commission. The government hopes that labor reform legislation, which took effect in early 2004, corporate and personal tax cuts in 2004 and 2005 and other changes will support a strong economic recovery and a return to faster growth.
Portugal's economy is based on traditional industries such as textiles, clothing, footwear, cork and wood products, beverages (wine), porcelain and earthenware, and glass and glassware. In addition, the country has increased its role in Europe's automotive sector and has a world-class mold-making industry. Services, particularly tourism, are playing an increasingly important role. Portugal will be forced into greater self-sufficiency when EU funds are either discontinued or substantially cut in 2006. EU expansion into eastern Europe has erased Portugal's historic competitive advantage and low labor costs. The government is working to change Portugal's economic development model from one based on public consumption and public investment to one focused on exports and private investment.
FOREIGN RELATIONS
Portugal has been a significant beneficiary of the European Union and is a proponent of European integration. Portugal held the presidency of the EU for the second time during the first half of 2000. Portugal used its term to launch a dialogue between the EU and Africa and to begin to take steps to make the European economy dynamic and competitive. In 2002, the Euro began to circulate as Portugal's currency.
Portugal was a founding member of NATO; it is an active member of the alliance by, for example, contributing proportionally large contingents in Balkans peacekeeping forces. Portugal proposed the creation of the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP) to improve its ties with other Portuguese-speaking countries. Additionally, Portugal has participated in a series of Ibero-American summits. Portugal was a strong advocate of independence for East Timor, a former Portuguese colony, and has committed troops and money to East Timor, in close cooperation with the United States, Asian allies, and the United Nations. Portugal also is contributing a small gendarme force and funds for other training and development projects for Iraq reconstruction.
U.S.-PORTUGUESE RELATIONS
Bilateral ties date from the earliest years of the United States. Following the Revolutionary War, Portugal was the first neutral country to recognize the United States. On February 21, 1791, President George Washington opened formal diplomatic relations, naming Col. David Humphreys as U.S. minister.
Contributing to the strong ties between the United States and Portugal are the sizable Portuguese communities in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New Jersey, California, and Hawaii. The latest census estimates that 1.3 million individuals living in the United States are of Portuguese ancestry, with a large percentage coming from the Azores. There are about 20,000 Americans living in Portugal.
The defense relationship between the United States and Portugal is excellent, centered on the 1995 Agreement on Cooperation and Defense (ACD). Lajes Air Base in the Azores has played an important role in supporting U.S. military aircraft engaged in counter-terrorism and humanitarian missions, including operations in Afghanistan and Iraq. Portugal also provides the United States and other allies access to Montijo Air Base and a number of ports.
Portugal defines itself as "Atlanticist," emphasizing its support for
strong European ties with the United States, particularly on defense and security issues. The Portuguese Government has been a key ally in U.S.led efforts in Iraq, and hosted the Azores Summit that preceded military action. Portugal sees its role as host of NATO's newly renamed "Headquarters West" (formerly SOUTHLANT), located near Lisbon, as an important sign of alliance interest in transatlantic security issues. As a staunch NATO ally since the founding of the organization, Portugal is a participant in NATO peace-keeping. It used its 2002 chairmanship of the OSCE to advance U.S. and European security objectives.
U.S.-Portuguese trade is relatively small, with the United States exporting $863 million worth of goods in 2002 and importing an estimated __BODY__.67 billion. While total Portuguese trade has increased dramatically over the last 10 years, the U.S. percentage of it—both exports and imports—has declined. The Portuguese Government is seeking to increase exports of textiles and footwear to the United States and is encouraging greater bilateral investment. U.S. firms play a significant role in the automotive, pharmaceutical, computer, and retailing sectors in Portugal.
Principal U.S. Embassy Officials
LISBON (E) Address: Ave. Forças Armadas 1600-081 Lisboa; APO/FPO: PSC 83 APO AE 09726; Phone: IVG: 884-3300 comm 351 21 727-3300; Fax: 011-351 21 727-2354; Workweek: Mon–Fri 8:00-5:00; Website: www.american-embassy.pt
| AMB: |
John N. Palmer |
| DCM: |
Adrienne O'Neal |
| CG: |
Brian Oberle |
| POL: |
Robert Blau |
| COM: |
Greg Taevs |
| MGT: |
John Olson |
| AFSA: |
Carol Bryan |
| AGR: |
Steven Hammond (resident in Madrid) |
| CLO: |
Olga Alt |
| DAO: |
Col. Rick Villalobos |
| DEA: |
Alfredo Christlieb (resident in Madrid) |
| ECO: |
Robert Blau |
| EEO: |
Audrey Huon-Dumentat & |
| FAA: |
Anthony F. Fazio (resident in Paris) |
| FAA/CASLO: |
Mike Galvan (resident in Madrid) |
| FMO: |
Christopher O'Connor |
| GSO: |
Chris Karber |
| IMO: |
Chris Gustavus |
| IRS: |
Frederick D. Pablo (resident in Paris) |
| LEGATT: |
Ed Sanchez (resident in Madrid) |
| MLO: |
Frank Winkle |
| PAO: |
Joao Ecsodi |
| RSO: |
Carol E. Gallo |
| Last Updated: 9/9/2004 |
TRAVEL
Consular Information Sheet
August 11, 2004
Country Description: Portugal is a developed and stable democracy with a modern economy. Tourist facilities are widely available.
Entry/Exit Requirements: A passport is required for entry into Portugal. A visa is not required for tourist or business stays of up to 90 days. Portuguese law requires some non-European Union foreign nationals to register with immigration officials within three days of entering Portugal. The law affects those who transit a Schengen country (Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Luxembourg, Spain, Sweden and the Netherlands) by air en route to Portugal and stay at noncommercial accommodations. For further information concerning entry requirements for Portugal, travelers may contact the Embassy of Portugal at 2310 Tracy Place, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, tel. (202) 332-3007, or the Portuguese consulates in Boston, MA; New Bedford, MA; Providence, RI; New York, NY; Newark, NJ; San Francisco, CA; or Los Angeles, CA. or their web page at http://www.portugalemb.org.
In an effort to prevent international child abduction, many governments have initiated procedures at entry/exit points. These often include requiring documentary evidence of relationship and permission for the child's travel from the parent(s) or legal guardian if not present. Having such documentation on hand, even if not required, may facilitate entry/departure.
Dual Nationality: In addition to being subject to all Portuguese laws affecting U.S. citizens, dual nationals may also be subject to other laws that impose special obligations on Portuguese citizens. U.S. citizens who are considered to have acquired Portuguese citizenship may be subject to certain aspects of Portuguese law such as mandatory voting and military service. For additional information, please see the Consular Affairs home page on the Internet at http://travel.state.gov for our Dual Nationality flyer.
Safety and Security: After the March 11, 2004 train bombings in Spain, Portuguese security officials were on a heightened state of alert, which continued on through the Euro 2004 games. In general, Portugal is not prone to political or civil violence. However, like other countries in the Schengen area, Portugal's open borders with its Western European neighbors allow the possibility of terrorist groups entering/exiting the country with anonymity. For the latest security information, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department's Internet web site at http://travel.state.gov where the current Worldwide Caution Public Announcement, Travel Warnings and Public Announcements can be found. Up to date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States, or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-317-472-2328. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
Crime: Portugal has a relatively low rate of violent crime. However, petty crime is on the rise in continental Portugal. Travelers may become targets of pickpockets and purse-snatchers, particularly at popular tourist sites, restaurants, or on public transportation. Rental cars and vehicles with non-local license plates can be targets for break-ins, and travelers should remove all luggage from vehicles upon parking. Travelers should also avoid using Automatic Teller Machines in isolated or poorly lit areas. Drivers in continental Portugal should keep car doors locked when stopped at intersections.
In general, visitors to Portugal should carry limited cash and credit cards on their person, and leave extra cash, credit cards, and personal documents at home or in a hotel safe. While thieves may operate anywhere, the U.S. Embassy receives reports of theft from the following areas:
Lisbon Area: Pick-pocketing and purse-snatching in the Lisbon area sometimes occur in buses, restaurants, the airport, trains, train stations, and trams, especially tram number 28 to the Castle of Sao Jorge. Thefts of purses, briefcases, and wallets have also occurred in hotel lobbies, restaurants, and elevators. At restaurants, items hung over the backs of chairs or placed on the floor may be stolen. There have been reports of theft of unattended luggage from the Lisbon airport. Special care should be taken in the Santa Apolonia and Rossio train stations, the Alfama and Bairro Alto districts, the Castle of Sao Jorge, and the area of Belem.
Other Areas: Thefts have been reported in Sintra, Cascais, Mafra, and Fatima. Automobile break-ins occur in parking areas at tourist attractions and near restaurants. Special care should be taken in parking at the Moorish Castle and Pena Palace in Sintra and at the beach-front areas of Guincho, Cabo da Roca, and Boca do Inferno.
Azores: Pick-pocketing and purse-snatching are not common occurrences in the Azorean archipelago. There are no reports of organized crime or gangs.
Madeira: Pick-pocketing, while infrequent, may occur in the old town and Santa Catarina park areas of Funchal.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. The emergency number for medical and police assistance is 112. If you are the victim of a crime while overseas, in addition to reporting to local police, please contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for assistance. The Embassy/Consulate staff can, for example, assist you to find appropriate medical care, contact family members or friends, and explain how funds could be transferred. Although the investigation and prosecution of the crime is solely the responsibility of local authorities, consular officers can help you to understand the local criminal justice process and to find an attorney if needed.
U.S. citizens may refer to the Department of State's pamphlet, A Safe Trip Abroad for ways to promote a trouble-free journey. The pamphlet is available by mail from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402, via the Internet at http://www.gpoaccess.gov, or via the Bureau of Consular Affairs home page at http://travel.state.gov.
Medical Facilities and Insurance: Medical facilities are available in Portugal, but in some cases they may not meet U.S. standards. The Department of State strongly urges Americans to consult with their medical insurance company prior to traveling abroad to confirm whether their policy applies overseas and whether it will cover emergency expenses such as a medical evacuation. U.S. medical insurance plans seldom cover health costs incurred outside the United States unless supplemental coverage is purchased. Further, U.S. Medicare and Medicaid programs do not provide payment for medical services outside the United States. However, many travel agents and private companies offer insurance plans that will cover health care expenses incurred overseas including emergency services such as medical evacuations.
When making a decision regarding health insurance, Americans should consider that many foreign doctors and hospitals require payment in cash prior to providing service and that a medical evacuation to the U.S. may cost well in excess of $50,000. Uninsured travelers who require medical care overseas often face extreme difficulties.
When consulting with your insurer prior to your trip, ascertain whether payment will be made to the overseas healthcare provider or if you will be reimbursed later for expenses that you incur. Some insurance policies also include coverage for psychiatric treatment and for disposition of remains in the event of death.
Useful information on medical emergencies abroad, including overseas insurance programs, is provided in the Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs brochure, Medical Information for Americans Traveling Abroad, available via the Bureau of Consular Affairs home page at http://travel.state.gov.
Other Health Information: Information on vaccinations and other health precautions, such as safe food and water precautions and insect bite protection, may be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's hotline for international travelers at 1-877-FYI-TRIP (1-877-394-8747); fax: 1-888-CDC-FAXX (1-888-232-3299), or via the CDC's Internet site at http://www.cdc.gov/travel. For information about outbreaks of infectious diseases abroad consult the World Health Organization's website at http://www.who.int/en. Further health information for travelers is available at http://www.who.int/ith.
Traffic Safety and Road Conditions: While in a foreign country, U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. The information below concerning Portugal is provided for general reference only, and may not be totally accurate in a particular location or circumstance.
Safety of Public Transportation: Good
Urban Road Conditions/Maintenance: Fair
Road Conditions/Maintenance: Poor
Availability of roadside Assistance: Fair
Portugal has one of the highest rates of automobile accidents and fatalities in Europe. Portuguese driving habits, high speeds, and poorly marked roads pose special hazards. In continental Portugal, fines for traffic violations are substantial and usually must be paid on the spot. Taxis are a reliable means of transportation, though travelers should be alert to possible discrepancies between the meter fare and the amount requested by the driver. Buses are reliable and inexpensive.
In the Azores, driving can be treacherous due to narrow cobblestone streets, blind curves, unprotected embankments, herds of cows in the countryside roads, and the high speeds of other drivers. In contrast to the continent, traffic violations are registered by radar and later forwarded to the offender via the postal service—payments are not made on the spot. Taxis do not have meters. The fare consists of a base fee plus a posted rate per kilometer traveled. Public buses are inexpensive. Bus services begin at 7 a.m. and generally operate until 8 p.m. depending on the destination.
In Madeira, road conditions have improved substantially over the last few years. Drivers must still be wary of speeders, however.
U.S. visitors to Portugal may drive with a valid U.S. driver's license for up to six months. For additional general information about road safety, including links to foreign government sites, see the Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs home page at http://travel.state.gov/travel/abroad_roadsafety.html. For international driving permits, please contact the AAA in the U.S. at tel. 1-800-222-4357. For specific information concerning Portuguese driver's permits, vehicle inspection and mandatory insurance, please contact the Portuguese National Tourist Office by telephone at 1-800-767-8842 or via the Internet at http://www.portugal.org.
Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of Portugal's Civil Aviation Authority as Category 1—in compliance with international aviation safety standards for oversight of Portugal's air carrier operations. For further information, travelers may contact the Department of Transportation within the U.S. at tel. 1-800-322-7873, or visit the FAA's Internet web sit e at http://www.faa.gov/avr/iasa/index.cfm.
Customs Regulations: Portuguese customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning temporary importation into or export from Portugal of items such as firearms, antiquities, medications, business equipment, sales samples, and other items. It is advisable to contact the Embassy of Portugal in Washington, D.C. or one of the Portuguese consulates in the U.S. for specific information regarding Customs requirements.
In many countries around the world, counterfeit and pirated goods are widely available. Transactions involving such products are illegal and bringing them back to the United States may result in forfeitures and/or fines. A current list of those countries with serious problems in this regard can be found at http://www.ustr.gov/reports/2003/special301.htm.
Portugal's customs authorities encourage the use of an ATA (Admission Temporaire/Temporary Admission) Carnet for the temporary admission of professional equipment, commercial samples, and/or goods for exhibitions and fair purposes. ATA Carnet Headquarters, located at the U.S Council for International Business, 1212 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10036, issues and guarantees the ATA Carnet in the United States. For additional information call (212) 354-4480, send an email to atacarnet@uscib.org, or visit http://www.uscib.org for details.
Criminal Penalties: While in a foreign country, a U.S. citizen is subject to that country's laws and regulations, which sometimes differ significantly from those in the United States and may not afford the protections available to the individual under U.S. law. Penalties for breaking the law can be more severe than in the United States for similar offenses. Persons violating Portuguese laws, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested or imprisoned.
Consumption, acquisition, and possession for personal use of small amounts of drugs, not to exceed 2.5 grams of hashish or 1 gram of cocaine or heroin, are administrative offenses. Criminal penalties for trafficking in illegal drugs, however, are strict and can range up to 15 years in prison. If the defendant belongs to a criminal organization, jail sentences range from a minimum of 10 years to a maximum of 20 years.
Under the PROTECT Act of April 2003, it is a crime, prosecutable in the United States, for a U.S. citizen or permanent resident alien, to engage in illicit sexual conduct in a foreign country with a person under the age of 18, whether or not the U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident alien intended to engage in such illicit sexual conduct prior to going abroad. For purposes of the PROTECT Act, illicit sexual conduct includes any commercial sex act in a foreign country with a person under the age of 18. The law defines a commercial sex act as any sex act, on account of which anything of value is given to or received by a person under the age of 18.
Under the Protection of Children from Sexual Predators Act of 1998, it is a crime to use the mail or any facility of interstate or foreign commerce, including the Internet, to transmit information about a minor under the age of 16 for criminal sexual purposes that include, among other things, the production of child pornography. This same law makes it a crime to use any facility of interstate or foreign commerce, including the Internet, to transport obscene materials to minors under the age of 16.
Disaster Preparedness: Portugal has a history of infrequent but severe seismic activity. Responsibility for caring for disaster victims, including foreigners, rests with the Portuguese authorities. General information regarding natural disaster preparedness is available via the Internet from the U.S Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) home page at http://www.fema.gov.
Children's Issues: For information on international adoption of children and international parental child abduction, please refer to our Internet site at http://travel.state.gov/family/index.html or telephone Overseas Citizens Services at 1-888-407-4747. This number is available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). Callers who are unable to use toll-free numbers, such as those calling from overseas, may obtain information and assistance during these hours by calling 1-317-472-2328.
Registration/Embassy and Consulate Locations: Americans living or traveling in Portugal are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department's travel registration website, https://travelregistration.state.gov, and to obtain updated information on travel and security within Portugal. Americans without Internet access may register directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. By registering, you'll make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact you in case of emergency. The Embassy is located on Avenida das Forças Armadas, Sete Rios, telephone: (351)(21) 727-3300, fax: (351)(21) 726-9109, Internet home page: http://www.americanembassy.pt. The U.S. Consulate is located in Ponta Delgada on the island of San Miguel in the Azores. The address is Av. Principe do Monaco, 6-2F, Ponta Delgada, phone: (351)296-282-216, fax: 351-296-28-72-16. There is also a Consular Agency located in Funchal, Madeira, on Rua Alfandega, no 10-2, Room AB, Funchal, phone: (351)291-235-636, fax: (351)-291-229-630, open Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon.
International Adoption
January 2005
The information below has been edited from a report of the State Department Bureau of Consular Affairs, Office of Overseas Citizens Services. For more information, please read the International Adoption section of this book and review current reports online at www.travel.state.gov/family.
Disclaimer: The information in this circular relating to the legal requirements of specific foreign countries is provided for general information only. Questions involving interpretation of specific foreign laws should be addressed to foreign legal counsel.
Please Note: The Portuguese Central Authority for international adoptions advised the U.S. Embassy in Lisbon that for purposes of handling adoption requests, it will only accept cases from licensed U.S. adoption organizations, submitted through a competent government authority.
Adoption of a Portuguese child by American citizens is a complex process, which is likely to be lengthy. The process is designed to protect the rights of the child and to ensure a harmonious relationship between the child and the adoptive parents. The majority of adoptions of Portuguese children by American citizens are transnational adoptions, because the adoption process is completed in the United States
Availability of Children for Adoption: Recent U.S. immigrant visa statistics reflect the following pattern for visa issuance to orphans:
FY-1996: IR-3 immigrant visas issued to Portuguese orphans adopted abroad – 0, IR-4 immigrant visas issued to Portuguese orphans adopted in the U.S. – 5
FY-1997: IR-3 Visas—0,
IR-4 Visas – 4
FY-1998: IR-3 Visas—0,
IR-4 Visas – 6
FY-1999: IR-3 Visas—0,
IR-4 Visas – 1
FY-2000: IR-3 Visas—0,
IR-4 Visas—1
Portuguese Adoption Authority: The government office responsible for adoptions in Portugal is the Directorate-General of Solidarity and Social Security in the Ministry of Labor and Solidarity and the Ministry's offices of the Seguranca Social. Address: Av. da República 67; 1069-033 Lisboa; Tel: 351-21-792 01 00; Fax: 21-793 47 39; E-mail dgas@seg-social.pt; Director: Dra. Graciete Palma da Silva.
Portuguese Adoption Procedures: National Adoption overview. The Portuguese adoption process involves the Portuguese Judicial system in coordination with the Portuguese Central Authority (CA) for Adoption—the Directorate-General of Solidarity and Social Security in the Ministry of Labor and Solidarity—and the Ministry's local offices of the «Segurança Social.
When the biological parents consent to the adoption, they must give their authorization before the Court. When the biological parents will not give their consent, the Court must decide whether to deprive the biological parents of their rights and place the child for adoption.
Trans-national Adoption Overview: When the prospective adoptive parent(s) do not reside permanently in Portugal, local adoption is not available to the adoptive parent(s) and the adoption is considered transnational. Under Portuguese law, transnational adoptions can not proceed without a Portuguese court issuing a Confiança Judicial* (judicial authorization) releasing the child for transnational adoption.
In a transnational adoption, the CA will first establish that the Portuguese child is unlikely to be adopted by a permanent resident of Portugal. Then, the CA will try to find other suitable adoptive parent(s) for the child and recommend to the court that the child be placed with such person(s) and released for transnational adoption. There will be a judicial proceeding to consider the CA's recommendations. If at the conclusion of the judicial proceeding, the Portuguese court accepts the CA's recommendations, the court will issue a Confiança Judicial to award legal custody of the child to the prospective adoptive parents and release the child for transnational adoption. It is the U.S. Embassy's understanding that only then may adopting parent(s) take legal custody of the child.
Steps to be followed by prospective U.S. adopting parents: The first point of contact for Americans to begin the process of adopting a Portuguese child residing in Portugal should be the Central Authority, the contact information for which is provided under the section "Portuguese Adoption Authority above. The CAS has basic responsibility for determining the suitability of the prospective parent(s) to adopt a Portuguese child.
The CA has a central role in the adoption of a Portuguese child. Without the CA's administrative authorization, it is not possible for adopting parents to obtain legal custody of a child or to complete local or transnational adoption of the child.
Please see the International Adoption section of this book for more details and review current reports online at travel.state.gov/family
Age and Civil Status Requirements: Couples, including common-law couple, must have been married or living together for at least 4 years. If the child is the son/daughter of one of the spouses, the other spouse need only be 25 years of age to adopt. Single parents must be at least thirty years of age. The maximum age allowed for adopting a child is 50.
Adoption Agencies and Attorneys: Adoption agencies are not authorized in Portugal. The Embassy maintains lists of numerous attorneys practicing in Portugal.
Doctors: The consular section of U.S. Embassy Lisbon maintains current lists of doctors and sources for medicines, should either you or your child experience health problems while in Portugal.
Portugal Documentary Requirements:
- Psychological and social study of prospective adoptive parents
- Marriage certificates or proof of the couple's common-law-status
- Proof of residency (residence certificate)
- Criminal records
- Proof of income
- Photocopy of passport
*All documents must be translated and be certified with the Apostille Convention Certificate*
U.S. Immigration Requirements: A Portuguese child, even if adopted by an American citizen, must obtain an immigrant visa before he or she can enter the U.S. as a lawful permanent resident. Please see the International Adoption section of this book for more details and review current reports online at travel.state.gov/family
Portuguese Embassy (and Consulates) in the United States: Portuguese Embassy; 2125 Kalorama Rd. NW; Washington, DC 22008; Tel: 202-332-3007; Web Site: http://www.portugalemb.org
*Portugal also has Consulates in Boston, New York, Newark, San Francisco, Los Angeles, New Bedford, Massachusetts and Providence*
U.S. Embassy in Portugal: U.S. Embassy of Portugal; Av. das Forças Armadas; 1600 Lisboa; Telephone: (011) 351-21-727 33 00 (Embassy switchboard); (011) 351—21-770 24 01 (Consular Section); Fax: (011) 351-21-726 91 09 (Embassy); (011) 351-21-727 23 54 (Consular Section).
Questions: Specific questions regarding adoption in Portugal may be addressed to the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in Lisbon, Portugal. You may also contact the Office of Children's Issues, SA-29, 2201 C Street, NW, U.S. Department of State, Washington, DC 20520-2818, Tel: 1-888-407-4747 with specific questions.
