No, open carry of firearms is illegal in Portugal under the Lei n.º 5/2006 (Portuguese Firearms and Ammunition Act), which permits only concealed carry with a valid license. Exceptions exist solely for law enforcement, military personnel, or authorized security services. Unauthorized possession risks criminal penalties, including imprisonment.
Key Regulations for Open Carry in Portugal
- Licensing Requirement: Open carry demands a Portaria (ministerial decree) from the Ministério da Administração Interna (MAI), reserved for exceptional cases like professional security or historical reenactments. Standard licenses (e.g., hunting or sport shooting) do not authorize open display.
- Prohibited Locations: Firearms must remain concealed in public spaces, places of worship, educational institutions, and government buildings. Violations trigger immediate confiscation and potential felony charges under Artigo 272.º of the Penal Code.
- 2026 Compliance Shifts: The MAI’s Portaria n.º 202/2023 tightens oversight, mandating biometric verification for license renewals and banning open carry in urban areas. Non-compliance results in administrative fines up to €3,740 or criminal prosecution.