Portugal extends school smartphone ban to 9th grade

Portuguese President António José Seguro has promulgated a decree extending the ban on smartphone use in schools to students up to the 9th grade. The new regulations are set to take full effect on January 1, 2027, following an adaptation period during the first months of the 2026/2027 school year.

Previously, the ban was mandatory only for students in the 1st and 2nd cycles. The expansion to the 3rd cycle (7th, 8th, and 9th grades) follows reports from school directors indicating that reducing mobile device presence leads to “more socialization” and “less indiscipline.” Exceptions may be made for health reasons, language learning support, or specific pedagogical activities.

Additionally, the President signed a decree addressing teacher shortages. This includes modifying scientific requirements for hiring and revising the identification of regions with recruitment difficulties under the “Plano + Aulas + Sucesso.” The changes also involve adjusting remuneration for teachers who agree to delay retirement.