Portugal’s parliament on October 17 approved a bill that would ban face-covering veils such as the burqa and niqab in most public spaces, in a move targeting Muslim women.

The legislation, introduced by the far-right party Chega, prohibits garments worn for “gender or religious” reasons that conceal the face in public areas.

The measure received backing from center-right coalition parties but faced opposition from left-wing lawmakers.

Under the proposed law, fines for individuals who wear such face coverings in public would range from 200 euros to 4,000 euros (US $234–$4,669).

In cases where someone forces another person to hide their face for gender or religious reasons, the bill shows possible prison terms of up to three years.

Exceptions to the ban would apply in specific settings including face coverings would still be permitted on airplanes, in diplomatic premises, and places of worship.

The bill now moves to the parliamentary committee on Constitutional Affairs for review. If cleared, it will go to the office of President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, who retains the power to veto the legislation or refer it to the Constitutional Court for a ruling.

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European Countries That Banned Burqa Before

Other European countries countries also had banned burqa earlier due to security, secularism and women’s rights which are enforced with fines and other penalties.

Austria

The Bans full-face veils in public areas.

Belgium

The nation implemented bans on religious symbols, including the niqab, in public spaces.

Denmark

Passed a ban on full-face veils in 2018.

Switzerland

Passed a ban on full-face veils, set to be enforced in 2025.

The Netherlands

Bans face coverings in specific public places like schools, hospitals, and public transport.

Bulgaria

Has introduced bans on full-face veils.

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Germany

Some states have partial bans, particularly in schools.

Italy

Has local bans in some areas.

Spain

Local bans exist in some parts of Catalonia.

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