Blog · Schools
Portugal's School Phone Ban: What Schools Need to Know in 2026
Yes, for younger pupils. Since 2025/26, smartphones are banned across school premises, breaks included, in grades 1 to 6. A decree approved in July 2026 extends the ban to grade 9 from 1 January 2027.
A decree-law approved by the Council of Ministers in July 2025 bans smartphones and other internet devices across all school premises, recreation areas included, for pupils in the 1st and 2nd cycles (grades 1 to 6) from the 2025/26 school year. It applies to public and private schools. In the 3rd cycle and secondary education, restrictions currently apply in classrooms only. Documented health needs are exempt.
The ministry recommended a ban for grades 1 to 6 in September 2024, and the 2025 decree made it mandatory. On 30 July 2026 the Council of Ministers approved extending the ban to the 3rd cycle (grades 7 to 9), and the President has since promulgated it. It takes effect on 1 January 2027, giving schools until December 2026 to update internal rules. Secondary grades 10 to 12 are not covered.
Many schools moved early: 52% of schools with a 3rd cycle already banned smartphones, and 82% had some restriction. A study by the PLANAPP public policy centre found 36% more socialising and 13% better discipline in phone-free schools. School leaders have flagged harder enforcement in schools teaching several cycles and asked for phased introduction.
Whatever Portugal's decree requires, lockable pouches let students keep their own phone, locked, from the first bell to the last, so the escola or agrupamento does not collect, store or answer for devices. Before The Internet ships lockable phone pouches and unlocking bases worldwide, including to Portugal, and can print the school's name or crest on them. Schools buy them outright: one price, no subscription, lease or per-student annual licence. Send us your student numbers and any written quote you already have, and we will beat it.
Frequently asked questions
When does the ban reach grades 7 to 9?
On 1 January 2027. Schools have until December 2026 to update their internal regulations.
Does the ban cover breaks?
Yes, for grades 1 to 6 it applies across all school premises, including recreation areas. Older grades currently face classroom restrictions only.
Are there exemptions for medical needs?
Yes. Documented health situations are exempt.
Related reading
School phone bans by country · Phone-free schools toolkit · How to roll out phone pouches in a school
Written by the team at Before The Internet, a Toronto-based phone-free company that rents lockable phone pouches for events across North America and sells them to schools and venues worldwide, shipping purchases to any country.
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