Portugal Face-Covering Ban Starts Sept 23 — Kuwait Embassy Warns Travelers

KUWAIT CITY, Sept 19: Kuwait Embassy in Lisbon said Saturday that Portugal’s new law banning clothing that conceals or prevents the display of the face in public places will take effect on September 23. The embassy said in a statement that violations of the law are punishable by fines ranging from EUR 400 (approx. USD 459.4) to EUR 3,000 (approx. USD 3,445). The law bans face coverings on roads and in public places, facilities providing services to citizens, as well as at sporting events and activities and demonstrations. It also criminalizes forcing any person to conceal their face through threats, violence, coercion or abuse of authority, with penalties of up to two years in prison or a fine. The embassy urged Kuwaiti citizens to observe Portuguese laws and regulations during their visits and review local legal requirements to avoid penalties or legal action. For assistance or inquiries, citizens may contact the embassy’s emergency number at 00351916666645 or the Foreign Ministry’s Consular Communication Center at 00965159 (KUNA)