Portugal mandates ID card for EU travel; cash over €10,000 must be declared

From 3 August 2026 the Portuguese Bilhete de Identidade (identity ticket) can no longer be used as a travel document within the European Union or Schengen Area. Portuguese citizens must present a Citizen Card or a passport for journeys to EU member states, although the Bilhete de Identidade remains valid as a domestic form of identification in Portugal.

When entering or leaving the EU, any traveller carrying €10,000 or more in cash (or the equivalent in other currencies or negotiable instruments) must submit a declaration to customs authorities. Failure to declare can result in temporary seizure of the funds and possible sanctions. Within the EU there is no general declaration requirement, but individual member states may impose their own rules, so travellers are advised to check destination‑country regulations before departure.