Portugal is consistently rated as a free and democratic nation with strong protections for civil liberties and political rights. According to international assessments, the government respects internet freedom and does not impose restrictions on access to social media or security tools. There are no reports of the state blocking Virtual Private Networks or criminalizing their use for ordinary citizens. This open environment ensures that individuals can utilize VPNs to safeguard their online privacy without fear of legal repercussions (1).
For international travelers, maintaining digital security is a primary recommendation when visiting the country. Government advisories explicitly suggest taking proactive measures to secure devices and personal data while abroad. These official guidelines list specific tools that visitors should employ to mitigate risks associated with cybercrime or unsecured networks. Such recommendations confirm that operating these privacy applications is fully compliant with local regulations and is widely considered a best practice for safety (2).
"Follow these safe practices: Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States. Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications. Don't connect to public Wi-Fi networks. Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS."
The legal landscape in Portugal aligns with broader European standards regarding digital privacy and data protection. Users are free to employ encryption services to protect their personal information from third-party surveillance or data theft. While the technology itself is legal, it is important to note that using it to commit crimes remains prohibited. However, for legitimate purposes such as securing connections or protecting identity, the use of VPNs is permitted and supported by the regulatory framework.
Source:
https://freedomhouse.org/country/portugal/freedom-world/2025
https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/travel-advisories/portugal.html
Last updated: 14-01-2026 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
