HOW to fly a drone LEGALLY in PORTUGAL: A complete guide 🛩

Are you visiting Portugal and you plan on flying your drone? Here's all you need to know about the new drone rules in Portugal 🛩 It's not an easy process to follow.
After living in the UK for years, we moved temporarily back to Portugal, in June 2021. We then struggled to find all the required documents and authorisations needed to fly a drone legally in Portugal. After some research and a few phone calls, we managed to make this video, where we try to clarify the whole process 📋
Step by step process divided into different chapters:
00:00 - Introduction
01:17 - Drone's Popularity
01:40 - Drone's Regulations & Categories
03:11 - Changes in Regulations
05:01 - Operator Registration in Portugal
13:33 - Operator's Training
17:20 - Geographic Limitations in Portugal
21:24 - AAN
26:26 - ICNF
30:24 - Other authorisations
34:11 - Examples
37:13 - Our Opinion
We are still struggling to get some of the authorisations, as most of them seem to take longer than described by the respective entities (30 to 45 days, 60 days in some cases). While we wait, here are some useful links:
➤ ANAC - www.anac.pt
➤ ANAC's Drone Registry - uas.anac.pt
➤ ANAC's Geographic Limitations Page - uas.anac.pt/explore
➤ Eurocontrol Training - trainingzone.eurocontrol.int/...
➤ AAN - www.aan.pt
➤ e-AAN Platform - backoffice.aan.pt/checklogin
➤ ICNF - www.icnf.pt
➤ IP-RAM - ifcn.madeira.gov.pt/servicos/...
➤ AMN Capitanias - www.amn.pt/DGAM/capitanias/Pa...
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🔍 Let us know about your experience or any questions in the comments section below.
🌏 Follow our trip to Australia, without taking any flights, for 3 years. Regular updates on our Instagram page.
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[@olivierwebmail]

Super comprehensive step/by/step guide - very useful, thank you!

[@theworldchasers]

Thank you, I'm glad to hear it has helped someone 🙌😁

[@AndreiBas]

Thanks a lot, this is really helpful summary of all the steps.

[@Azunaii]

Thanks for this video, was a great help! The AAN thing is crazy, that you have to do this so long in advance for every flight, even though weather could change by then. Really hope they get with the times soon.

[@theworldchasers]

No changes so far :(

[@mr.mabhour]

Well done Amazing video, very useful

[@ronverstraeten6047]

Clear definition of the rules in Portugal. I hope that it will be easier in the future as in other European countries.

[@theworldchasers]

Thank you. It's just a shame things are not easier, we also hope it will improve over time.

[@BrutallyHonestStockGuy]

Thanks for this comprehensive review - very useful. By the time we get all the authorizations from all the regulators, as you've described, I might be able to fly in mid 2024. Depressing. Too much bureaucracy just encourages rule-breaking.

[@theworldchasers]

Thank you for your comment. We know how depressing it can be and you're right, unfortunately, rule-breaking seems to be the norm as nobody wants to wait weeks or months for authorisations. We can only hope things will change soon.

[@TomBoudewijns]

Thanks for the information. I just downloaded the app but I don't see the nature parcs on the map. Anything changed?

[@TheHeldere]

Bom video, foi de boa ajuda. Boa vista aerea dessa bela localidade norte alentejana, tenho n fotos tiradas desse local (inicio do video), ate parece que voamos.

[@theworldchasers]

Obrigado :)

[@studio_rtr]

Thanks for the good explanation. I have been doing this process 2 years ago and I just logged in to apply for a flight permission again, but when I go to the Area tab, the "Add"button has disappeared. I noticed they changed the website, did they also change something about the process to apply for a flight permission?

[@webmasterbou8be]

Can you make a new video using the electronic system e-AAN? It accepts everything i fill in except the area I want to select.

[@dmitrysmolyanitsky1166]

This is great video that gave me some information. I wonder if things different 2 years later or it still the same.

[@theworldchasers]

I reckon it will be the same or worse, unfortunately. From several discussions with the regulatory body, they do not seem very eager to bring any changes, unfortunately.

[@chintakjeentilal1568]

Hey I need some help. I'm going Portugal and Spain and I got drone under 250g with camera. Do I need to register. I already passed A1 and A3 test in UK.

[@artemtoderian]

Great description that's very hard to find over internet 👍🏻 However one note: if you are registered as an operator in any other EU country, you don't need to register once again in Portugal (or in other EU country), but just ask for authorizations from ANN and other authorities.

[@theworldchasers]

Thanks 👍 True, unfortunately that doesn't apply to someone registered in the UK anymore

[@BTunaTTV_YT]

@@theworldchasers adorei o vídeo caro amigo mas gostaria de saber qual das categorias no site da anac se adequa melhor a alguém com dji mavic mini/mini 2 que queira filmar até 125 metros de altitude mas também eventos de amigos e/ou outras pessoas ( sem ter problemas com as autoridades nacionais). Excelente video com boa pronúncia inglesas.

[@theworldchasers]

@@BTunaTTV_YT Obrigado pelo comentario. A ANAC, como qualquer outra entidade reguladora, apenas fará a distinção entre voos a título particular ou com âmbito comercial (sendo essa uma das primeiras perguntas aquando o registo na plataforma). Relativamente a categorias, depende sempre do drone a ser usado (portanto A1, A2 ou A3 na categoria aberta, onde se inserem quase todos os drones usados para fins "recreativos" atualmente). O DJI Mavic Mini/Mini 2 tem menos de 250gr, se não for alterado, sendo que pode ser operado na subcategoria A1 da categoria aberta. No entanto, precisa de certificado de competência A1/A3 para voar. Assim como outras possíveis autorizações de outras entidades (AAN, capitanias, etc...como referido no vídeo). Chamo apenas a atenção que o limite de altitude é sempre 120m para qualquer drone e que mesmo voando com um DJI Mini na subcategoria A1 não é permitido sobrevoar grandes aglomerados de pessoas. Será sempre preciso manter uma distância de segurança (isto segundo a ANAC e outras entidades equivalentes, esta distância varia consoante o drone). Espero ter ajudado.

[@BTunaTTV_YT]

@@theworldchasers muito obrigado todas as minhas dúvidas foram ja esclaredias pelo video quanto à parte de capitanias e assim e neste comentário tbm😁🙂

[@federicop7432]

Thanks for the video! really well done! Do you know what is the situation for "Operator's Training" in february 2023?

[@theworldchasers]

You still need it, however it might be easier (and cheaper) to do it through another European country. I had a look through AAN's training and it's way too confusing and complex.

[@mahabubalomrahul5917]

hello sir , I bought the drone it’s DJI mini 3. Is it necessary to register myself as a drone operator in Portugal to fly my drone ? the weight is less than 250g but it’s have a good camera.

[@supercharged3975]

Hey I've finally managed to register an operator. Also drone . One problem is the online training same is happening with MCD login . I'm sure it's there platform . Thanks for all your help 👍

[@TheHikingYorkie]

Very very professional . . . Inspiring edit.

[@bayareaview8301]

Hey brother, got a question for you? I live in the United states. I have a DJI Mini 4pro Do I need to register in Portugal? I obtain my Portuguese citizenship through my dad in San Francisco, California. What do you recommend?

[@jungle574]

ola boa taede,,sou portugues mas emigrante,,estou registrado in uk dji drones and have the id card was register pilot ,,,vou de ferias madeira ,tento registar para pilotar em europa...problema quando chega para password and type again to say wrong,nao e um passaword inventado por me com meu emai?,nao consigo sair dessa pagina,,

[@protonx7722]

I can't get around in the operator registration form.

[@Vince_ago90]

Sorry! But can I registered also if i am tourist? I am in porto right now and i see that i can fly with my mini 3 pro till an high of 60 meters. But without a registration in anac.pt can't i fly?

[@supercharged3975]

Thanks for sharing I've been flying my autel Evo without registration as it's so much to do for how much I fly my drone

[@theworldchasers]

I totally understand what you're saying... Too much hassle if you ask me 🤷‍♂️

[@supercharged3975]

@@theworldchasers I've only been living in Portugal just over 2 years . I know a few GNR and they tell me not to bother for the amount I use it .

[@JoeDias]

Great info, I’m moving to Portugal with 4 drones. Hopefully I can make it thru customs and go thru the process? Should not have problems with the mini 2 I hope?

[@theworldchasers]

Thank you. Well according to ANAC, you still need to register your drone if MTOM above or equal to 250gr or the drone has a camera. Everything else is also the same, for authorisations and such. I was never bothered at customs, flying is a totally different matter. ICNF can be particularly slow and thorough with authorisations, if you're caught. Hope that helps :)

[@JoeDias]

@@theworldchasers that is good to know, ill do the legal stuff after I get them there.. thxs

[@TheQuanchis]

Hi, really nice video!! Just one question, how can I get in contact to get the pin to complete the registration process. I'm from central America.

[@theworldchasers]

Hi! Thank you, appreciate it. You need to contact ANAC, through their website. As it is a very imprecise system, you might be able to obtain it through their platform or not. You can also contact them if there are any issues, but from my experience they take a long time to answer any emails so you may need to phone them directly. Hope that helps.

[@dwisniak]

Great explanation. I submitted my requests to AAN, received an answer for one of them - "deferred". What does it mean in this context? I still have about 45 days to go. Thanks.

[@theworldchasers]

Thank you, I'm sorry I just saw this message now. Hope you got through.

[@marcelovhm1]

This was very helpful, thank you. I´m just going to try to complete the course today and then basically I have all things set to fly legally. These procedures HAVE to change though, waiting a month or more for permission is unacceptable and leads people into taking risks, these regulations are kind of forcing people into the risky direction. (Talking about the AAN authorisation in particular)

[@theworldchasers]

Thank you. I couldn't agree more, unfortunately it seems they still want to play things this way. Clearly, you will see that most people will not follow the rules because it's simply silly to wait 1 month for authorisations. In my last interactions with AAN, I managed to obtain authorisations within 7 days, however this is still unnecessary, I think. If you follow the general rules, have certified competencies and follow common sense, you still need to wait for days to be able to fly. I'm also told ANAC only accepts registration using a Digital Authentication Key now, I'm still trying to find more about this :)

[@marcelovhm1]

@@theworldchasers I have just got off the phone with someone from ANAC, trying to sell me their courses. The course you mentioned is free of charge, right? And like theirs grants A1 and A3 certification. I told them that the current system promotes risky behavior, but well, they cannot do much there I'm afraid, as long as there is no singular system that combines all aspects into one. I am pretty sure that 9/10 people that fly drones over here in my area (Braga) did not even register the drone etc. Let's hope a singular body can soon come into place that simplifies safe drone operations.

[@theworldchasers]

@@marcelovhm1 Yes. The course I mentioned is free of charge for the A1-A3 subcategories. You will need a different provider or ANACs course for the A2 subcategory if you plan to fly in that category. There are some good European providers with good courses. ANACs is difficult to follow and too complex even for someone with experience. I have expressed my concerns with ANAC and I have also suggested they need to follow a different model for authorisations/registration, like what happens in the UK for example. Unfortunately, we can hope they can change things as soon as possible. Yes, most people don't have a registration but, at the same time, I've never seen anyone asking for any paperwork/registration (apart from ICNF) so...It's still a very grey area.

[@marcelovhm1]

@@theworldchasers I have registered myself for it, plan to do it this afternoon. I mean on doing A1 and A3 anyway so, perfect. Thanks for all the info once again. True, enforcement generally is lacking here in Portugal. (Illegal parking in my street for example 🤣) just got my beast (Mini 2) last week so I can't wait to take it for its maiden voyage.

[@theworldchasers]

@@marcelovhm1 Thanks for your comment again. You'll be fine with a Mini 2. Just be careful with the wind 😂 enjoy flying your drone 😉

[@rodneyarthur6670]

Thanks for this! For a traveler from the US, is it worth even going through this process and bringing my Mini 2 (

[@theworldchasers]

Hi Rodney, thank you for your comment. I am still struggling to answer that same question myself. The process is quite challenging to follow sometimes. If you ask us, the whole thing about asking authorisation for each flight (especially from AAN) is completely ridiculous. Unfortunately, this is still how things work today. I couldn't do it with a digital authentication key either although I am Portuguese, so ultimately I had to call them and they resolved my issue within a few minutes. So yes, bring your drone and, if the issue persists, try to call them directly. As for the authorisations, you will find that some authorities will just say "yes, go ahead as long as you follow the rules", so please try to get them. However, we had some issues ourselves and we still followed our flight plans following the rules. Your drone operates within the A1 category so it ends up being "less dangerous" than other heavier drones. Bring your drone, any certificates you already have, follow the rules (which should be similar to the US anyway) and try to obtain the relevant authorisations. Things usually are just a bit more tricky if you are flying within a natural park/reserve or close to an airport. Otherwise, go ahead and create those memories. Hope this helps.

[@mavrickfaldo8866]

@@theworldchasers hi I have a operator licence and a mavic mini, do you think it would be okay to create some memories from camp albufeira, the old town, leaving the end of the month thanks

[@theworldchasers]

@@mavrickfaldo8866 Hi. It depends on where that operator license is actually from. You will always need to register in Portugal as an operator or you need an EU license. Even for the DJI Mini series.

[@DavidDiepAU]

@@theworldchasers I am with you.. . I am from Australia and trying to go through the process to apply for an Operator ID and also stuck with getting an Digital Key and PIN. :(

[@dok_kari]

OMG! so hard to do it. I try all day registering in portugal but no its say "pending". Do i really need register ? Ihave my Fly number and i was do test in Finland ( a1) i have mavic mini pro 3.

[@theworldchasers]

If you have a EU registration you should be able to transfer that/use it in Portugal.

[@steveholland8470]

Hi Great video still trying to clarify main point if I ve registered in UK can I just register again in Portugal? The website is also jn English? Thanks

[@theworldchasers]

Hi! Thanks. Yes, you need to register again in Portugal. However, you will need another A1-A3 and/or A2 for the EU. UK certificates are not accepted. Parts of the website are now in English.

[@eusouthaypelomundo]

Can I then register myself as an operator from an EU state (even thought I am from the UK) since I cannot get hold of the digital key because I'm not Portuguese?! I intend to fly my mini 2 which is less than 250g. If so, would I still need to register the drone? Would be great to get some feedback from you since there is so little info online and the portuguese authorities are not that helpful :/

[@theworldchasers]

Yes, you should be able to register yourself that way. If you have a registration in another EU State that is also accepted in Portugal, but you still need to submit that information through their platform. Yes, all drone operators need to register themselves in Portugal. I hope this helps.

[@alexvkk]

Thanks for the video. Just bought and registered my drone (249gm with a camera) in Spain. Do you think I should also register it in Portugal if I want to fly it there? Or one registration in Spain is enough? Thanks

[@theworldchasers]

If you have an EU Registration that is transferable to any other EU country, as long as you have transfered that over to ANAC and the registration number is visible on the drone itself. You're welcome :)

[@DarthPlasma]

If you are already registered in another european country as operator and you aready have the EASA code, should you register again in Portugal?

[@theworldchasers]

No, you transfer that registration. It's actually easier than to register in Portugal

[@KaiFootikum]

Hey. Nice and informative video. So basically I understand you, that if I want to travel to Portugal this year from Estonia (I have A1/A3 sertificate), lets say 24th April til 3rd May, then I am already missed opportunity to take a drone (Mavic Air 2) with me? Because it takes around 60(!) days, to get permissions? Or this year, it is things a lot better? Lets say I would not like to fly on Natural reserve nor over Sea/Lakes, only main land, then I still have to apply permission from e-AAN? I do agree that up to 45 or 60 days in advance to get a permit, is nonsense, cause weather could change etc. We have the same issue here, but a lot easier/faster. Near airports/capital cities you can get permit with 3 working days and A1/A3 is required. We have only one natural reserve, where permit is required. But other areas are free to fly up to 120m.

[@theworldchasers]

Hi. Thank you. Lately, it has taken less than 7 days to obtain an authorisation from AAN. It depends on where exactly you want to fly. Sometimes they need to obtain advice from the Air Force and that takes longer. I still believe the whole process is nonsense but it has taken me considerably less time to obtain authorisations on the past few weeks. As for ICNF (nature reserves and parks) it still takes a long time, around 15 to 30 days but, again, because each park has a different supervising authority, it depends on where you want to fly. Don't lose all hope (as I did several times) and try to obtain the authorisations. At least AAN is easier to contact and obtain authorisation from than ICNF. If you can't obtain the authorisations in time, well...Exercise common sense, check for NOTAMs and have all other certificates available. I can't exactly advise people to break the rules but I can't also recommend this whole process as it stands at the moment. Hope this helps and I hope you enjoy flying your drone in Portugal.

[@KaiFootikum]

@@theworldchasers thanks for the quick reply. Hopefully next year, all things will be even better! But as I am considering coming, and if I do, I would like to rent a car and take a road trip from Lisbon towards to southern coast, I do not know exactly where and when I am going to be, so it makes quite difficult to apply for this permit as AAN requires :D

[@tonyp-66]

They want you to fly legally and follow the rules but proceed to make it next to impossible to do that. By doing that they push people to not follow the rules. To start they make it next to impossible to register unless you are a citizen even though post on the website that you can. From there it just gets more complicated. Great video though and very informative on your part, Thank You.

[@NAStudios1]

I’m non EU😢 how do I register!!!!!!

[@gunjansriv]

This is a great video. Thanks for creating it. I am still confused about how to register given I am from the US. So my options are 1) Fly without a registration and make sure I follow common sense rules or 2) Call ANAC and see if they can give me a mobile key. Do you have any update on how non EU or non portugese citizens can fly?

[@theworldchasers]

Thank you. If you call ANAC they should be able to help you, they have always been helpful on previous interactions. Apparently they have also changed the process and now you can only register using a Digital Key. I'm still trying to understand these changes myself and will work on a video of the updated situation. Call ANAC, if that still doesn't work, follow common sense and you shouldn't have problems as long as you hold all the other certificates of competence.

[@toze4172]

Olá afinal para voar legalmente em Portugal é só isto...fácil... Por acaso eu ja tenho tudo resolvido só faltava criar a conta na AAN e aprender a pedir a autorização de imagem... Obrigado pela ajuda... Se tivesse falado em Português tinha ajudado mas também entendi na mesma levou mais tempo...

[@theworldchasers]

Olá. De nada. Obrigado pelo comentário e pela sugestão. Talvez num próximo vídeo 😀

[@apdg385]

Great information! Really appreciated... I am in the process of registering my drone and as a third country citizen I cannot get past the step which requires the digital mobile key. Any information on how to bypass this? Is the only option to call?

[@mountainman5900]

I'm in this same situation. I don't understand why you would need to have a citizen authentication as a third country citizen? They don't provide a way for third party citizens to register for the digital mobile key from what I can tell.

[@theworldchasers]

Thank you. It's not even easy for Portuguese citizens to be honest. You might find it easier to obtain a registration with another EU country and then use that registration in Portugal. You see I've done this video 1 year ago and little has changed in terms of the system they are using. It doesn't make any sense and I had the opportunity to tell ANAC my exact thoughts several times. They simply don't care 🤷🏻‍♂️ it's shameful really, but welcome to Portugal! You can email them but you will never obtain a (quick) answer. I would normally call them. Generally, the person on the other side of the phone is friendly and helpful 😄

[@DavidDiepAU]

I am in a similar boat and got stuck at the exact same situation too :( Don't have Digital Authentication Key and PIN

[@MannysVoyage]

Why do I get "Please correct the flight purpose" when I fill in the "purpose" field? What should I write if I am flying as a hobby while visiting the area as an EU Tourist?

[@theworldchasers]

The purpose is linked to the way you're going to use the resulting photos or videos. I normally write something like "Personal recreational use". Sometimes I also add I might share some content on "Social platforms such as Facebook, IG or KZbin" but that might result in more questions from them.

[@MannysVoyage]

@@theworldchasers Does it mean it could be rejected if I add "I may post on KZbin channel?" and is "personal recreational use" accepted?

[@theworldchasers]

@@MannysVoyage As far as I know it won't be rejected if you state you are going to use it in any video, whether that's shared on KZbin or anywhere else. However, commercial use is forbidden within certain areas without appropriate authorisations, if I'm not mistaken. You could try to write personal recreational use and see what happens. All I can say is that is what I normally write and never had an issue. Otherwise, it might be just a system bug. Who knows what's going on with their system 😂

[@MannysVoyage]

@@theworldchasers thank you for your help :)

[@supercharged3975]

Hi I went to get a digital key at the citizen shop. With that key do I have to activate it before use ?

[@theworldchasers]

Hi. Yes. As far as I know it can be done here: eportugal.gov.pt/

[@supercharged3975]

@@theworldchasers tried there yesterday after I got digital key from citizen shop but didn't work. Why is it so difficult lol 👺

[@HeikoFritz]

This is a crazy process ! I am struggeling with this mobil digital key, and I have no plan how to get this. They wrote something like i should stick the Financas Portal, but there i found nothing. So I registered as an operator in Germany, as far as I understand it , this should work ? Other question, did someone every get a fine on flying without that stuff, but looking for all the rules, and have an licence from an other EU country? Asking for a friend 🙂 By the Way, greate Video, thanks for all the clearification !! Good work

[@theworldchasers]

Hi. Thank you! Yes, forget about registering in Portugal, too much hassle. As long as you have an EU registration (and the respective registration ID number physically on your drone) you're good to go. You still need, however, certificates for the subcategories you are flying in. As for fines, well I have heard of a few cases of people being approached and asked for ID, certificates, etc... But no fines whatsoever. This will probably change in the near future but it all depends on how much you put yourself (and others) at risk. If you are flying close to crowds, overflying people, close to government/public buildings or within a natural reserve with active patrolling, for example, you will be approached by someone at some point. I've been flying for a while now and the more I do it, the more I try to stay far away from people for example. Sometimes people get really annoyed about drones and they will be the ones reporting you to the local authorities. In short, have your EU ID ready if someone asks, don't do any crazy maneuvers and you'll be fine. Hope that helps :)

[@HeikoFritz]

@@theworldchasers Thanks a lot for your respond ! I also had some bad experience the last time, with people who filling distrubed by the drone, but I will be sensitv flying around...looking forward to portugal !

[@MiguelSilvaX]

I've been flying a 249g drone (Hubsan Zino Mini Pro) in Lisbon for the past 3 months just testing new firmwares and camera parameters (some videos I also post here on KZbin to help other drone owners), and I'm tired of asking AAN 1 week beforehand because my drone has camera and can't even copy the polygonal zone I've defined from one request to another :( Thanks, you have simplified a lot breaking down the several bureaucracy, but the whole process is so confusing and complex that most people will shy away from flying / fly without proper authorisations, or don't buy a drone at all (want to play with a drone?, yeah, keep dreaming while will make the process more complex and add some new entities to request authorisation or collect taxes) I waited a long before buying a drone mainly because of the complexity in understanding what and where is possible to do or not.. I'm going on holidays for 2 weeks with family and have to ask permission to fly over a desert of water in Algarve (Ria Formosa) and have to specify months in advance each date and where its going to be...

[@theworldchasers]

Hi Miguel. You are absolutely right. Our main goal when we started this channel had nothing to do with drones. Our main focus is still travel. However, after being absolutely competent with a drone in the UK, we arrived in Portugal just to find the whole process is way too difficult. Because you are flying a 249gr drone, it should save you from part of the bureaucracy. We know all about the different authorities and authorizations and it's ridiculous. In the UK, as long as you follow the rules and check for any air traffic notifications, you're good to go. When we last spoke with ANAC, we actually told them the process is too difficult to follow but they seem keen on making it even more difficult. Even their courses are too complex and include skills no A2 flyer needs, anywhere in the world. We already took our drone to different places in Portugal and, yes we tried to obtain the required authorizations, but sometimes its impossible to predict where and when you want to fly, one month in advance so... We followed general rules for our drone category and flew our drone anyway. If you contact some local authorities, they will actually just send you the rules (that you already know) and tell you that can fly anytime as long as you follow them. While others don't even know what you are talking about. We (Portuguese) just tend to make things more difficult than they need to be. I would say take your drone and enjoy your time with family. Yes, check for any air traffic notifications or events happening in the area. Try to obtain the authorisations but don't worry too much about it. We've never been approached by local authorities although they clearly saw us flying our drone. Thing is, as long as you are not disrupting air traffic or posing a risk to others, all that paperwork is pointless. Thank you for your comment, all the best.

[@hotelphotography]

@@theworldchasers In summary, can I fly in Portugal with a Mini 3 pro that is below the 249grams? I'm still confused.

[@TomBoudewijns]

@@hotelphotography As I understand it, it is allowed but you must have permission from AAN and possibly 2 or 3 other parties. Depending on the location you have to get permission by email, mail, carrier pigeon or Morse code. I think I am not going to book a flight to Portugal but a different country.

[@ze6999]

Ola boa tarde, eu tambem tou na inglaterra e vou a portugal no verao, chegaste a voar em portugal? e tiveste alguns problemas ou foi suave?

[@theworldchasers]

Olá. Sim, cheguei a voar em vários sítios incluindo praias e parques naturais (quase sempre com as devidas autorizações). Contudo, parece que agora as autoridades andam mais atentas a quem tem autorização ou não. Há notícias de drones a serem apreendidos pela GNR em sítios turísticos.

[@ze6999]

@@theworldchasers Pois eu nem consigo me registrar, no site deles. Nao sei como vou fazer. Chegaste a pedir autorizacao quando voaste? Parece mesmo incrivel, se o pessoal vai de ferias como e que vais fazer para ter sempre autotizacao.

[@theworldchasers]

@@ze6999 Sim, mas foi preciso ligar para eles para conseguir efetuar o registo em primeiro lugar. Não é que o processo tenha melhorado muito nos últimos meses/ano. É um sistema completamente retrogrado a comparar com o UK, por exemplo. A maioria das pessoas não pede autorização, desde que não sejam apanhados está tudo bem ;)

[@premrajendran7383]

I've requested access to AAN, and have a login. In the section for flight authorization in a specific area, there's a field for Insurance. Is this required for an A1/A3 flight? If so, how does one obtain that? I'm a recreational UAS pilot in the U.S (which doesn't have an insurance requirement) and I'm trying to fly my drone in the Azores while on vacation. Thanks.

[@theworldchasers]

As far as I'm aware this section is optional for the A1/A3 subcategories. Insurance can however be provided by a third party and info added to that section.

[@francesleung8408]

Hi Prem, I am planning to travel Portugal with my dji mini 2 in 2 weeks from U.S. I came across this video , but I couldn't register as a UAS operator via uas.anac.pt without the digital key. Can you provide some information how I can complete the process?

[@brizzle3903]

@@francesleung8408 that’s the same problem I’ve been dealing with, idk if you took your drone with you but I’m about to just give up because Portugals rule/registration process is a major pain in the butt! Emailing ANAC has been problematic as they just refer me back to the website with no help whatsoever, it’s ridiculous

[@IsaacSmithProductions]

I am a tourist looking to bring my drone from the United States to Portugal this summer. I am registered as a recreational flyer by the FAA in the United States. How much of this applies to me as someone who will only be flying my drone for personal enjoyment (It does have a camera however; DJI Mini 3 Pro). My drone is Under 249 grams and I am always cautious around people. Any thoughts now that it is 2023?

[@theworldchasers]

The same rules applies, as far as I'm aware. It doesn't matter how cautious you actually are. As I've been advising everyone, try to get your registration on the EU through another country. Netherlands is normally easier. Once you have a EU registration it seems to be easier for some people to transfer that over to Portugal.

[@fell999]

Hi, this was very helpful, thank you very much. One question tho, if I'm registered as an operator in France, which is a EU member, that means that I don't have to register as an operator in Portugal, but what about the drone? do I need to register it at the ANAC website? or is the registration of the drone in France enough?

[@theworldchasers]

Thank you. As far as I know, the actual drone details registration is still optional. But since you still need to register through AAN (you just don't need to register with ANAC) to request authorisation for each flight, you can input your drone and insurance data in the AAN portal. Again, drone and insurance data are optional. The only difference is that information will be written on each authorisation or not. If you're already registered in France, the most difficult part is done. Hope that helps :)

[@fell999]

@@theworldchasers This is great, thank you! I have one more short question. I saw in a different channel that once you request authorization for a flight with AAN they send you an email that says that you have to call a phone number between 3pm and 8pm the day before flying the drone. Is that really the case? I couldn't believe it when I saw it.

[@theworldchasers]

@@fell999 That doesn't happen very frequently. The only time I had to contact someone was when I wanted to fly in an area under militar control. They gave me authorisation but it said I needed to contact the local ATC on that day. They gave me a number on the authorisation paper. I just had to contact them before starting the flight and upon landing. As I said, this only happened once in 50+ flights so it's not a regular thing. But its not something I would consider strange if you are flying close to an airport or military base. They will add a note to the authorisation and also inform the Air Force/local ATC so they should be expecting your call :)

[@fell999]

@@theworldchasers You're awesome man, thanks for answering so fast.

[@fell999]

@@theworldchasers Hi again! In the end I came up with the conclusion that flying a drone legally in Portugal as a non-EU national is impossible. Just like you mentioned in the video, the registration via email for AAN didn't work, so they require the physical form signed and sent to an address. For me living in South America the cost of sending an envelope is about $50 dollars. This situation is just ridiculous man, I still can't believe it.

[@igordumencic1427]

Does someone know how do you get photo/video permission? I don’t understand where and how do you request for permission + do you have to do before each flight? Thank you!

[@theworldchasers]

It depends where you are going to fly. Normally, always AAN and then possibly another entity as described in the video. Yes, you need to request it for each flight.

[@igordumencic1427]

@@theworldchasers I’m in Porto, but will probably go to Lisbon and Algarve in the next couple of weeks. Basically I have my drone registered in Slovenia which is part of EU, I guess I only have to get permission for photo/video from AAN? Do you maybe know how long does this usually take, and who/how do you need to contact? Rules regarding drones in Portugal are a bit weird I guess… thanks in advance though! :)

[@theworldchasers]

@@igordumencic1427 Yes, that makes it easier in terms of registration. Yes, rules here are a bit funny to say the least. You will need to go to AAN and basically create an account (link in the description), which is also not straightforward as you need to sign a form and send it back to them. This should take a few days (3 to 5 normally). Once you can actually access the eAAN portal, you will need to input details for each flight in advance. Depending on where you want to fly it can take a few days to 1 day or 2 weeks. If you are flying inside a natural park, AAN will normally give their authorisation straight away because you will then need another authorisation from ICNF. Same thing with flying over beaches and sea (different entity to request an authorisation from). Well, its painful just to think about the amount of papers you need. Reason why most people don't bother... Hope this helps :) Since you have a EU registration, sometimes it might be useful to use the "clueless tourist" routine and claim you didn't know :)

[@igordumencic1427]

@@theworldchasers really appreciate your help and your fast response :) Just thinking about all these rules and requirements is giving me headache… thanks again! :)

[@brizzle3903]

Ok so I’m coming from the United States and I’ve been trying to get my drone registered but every time I have tried to register on the website you used it’s not allowing me to do that. I’ve reached out to the ANAC and they have been no help at all What am I suppose to do? It’s making me want to leave my drone home and just forget about it altogether, the drone I wanted to bring with me is a DJI Mavic mini at 249grams with recording capabilities

[@theworldchasers]

Unfortunately, all drones need to be registered and once you're given an ID number you would need to use it to label your drone. Well, I'm not surprised about ANAC. Although they should help foreign operators. If they are unable to help you, there is a small trick you can still use. You just need to obtain an operator registration in another EU country, since that registration (and ID number) will be therefore valid in any EU country, including Portugal. Everything else about AAN and other authorisations is still the same. But yeah, getting something out of ANAC is painful to say the least...Hope that helps :)

[@brizzle3903]

@@theworldchasers I will try my best to get everything ready before my trip on the 20th, I wish Portugal would make this easy like the United States where it only took 10-15 minutes to register and get the FAA certificate Red tape is a pain in the ass I swear, I appreciate the help

[@theworldchasers]

@@brizzle3903 I know bud, I'm originally registered in the UK, where it's easy and straightforward. You just get your certificates and follow the rules. Not at all like this. Even if you speak Portuguese it's not essentially easier. They don't seem to understand all this red tape doesn't make things safer, quite the opposite because people will find loopholes or just ignore their rules completely. Oh well...fingers crossed for some better days. Best of luck and, if you ask me, bring your drone anyway, you can always claim ignorance :)

[@brizzle3903]

@@theworldchasers My friend who lives in Portugal is going to see what she can do because she told me a lot of people who fly their drones aren’t even licensed/registered she lives in Ericeria the surf town of Portugal hopefully she can make this easier for me, but I’m going to bring it anyway I even told the ANAC that they really need to change their policy or at least create a simpler way for foreigners to register their drones

[@theworldchasers]

@@brizzle3903 Yeah, most people can't be bothered to try because it's too damn difficult haha can't blame them or any foreign operator to be honest. I do try to get authorisations but when you need to ask them 1 month in advance it is a little bit impossible, for example. Thanks for that, maybe a 100 or 1000 voices saying "this is ridiculous" is better than 1. We shall see :)

[@MannysVoyage]

Are these rules still active?

[@theworldchasers]

Yes

[@SpikeHammond]

So you need a PT address to fly a drone if you are from the UK!

[@theworldchasers]

You need a PT address to register yourself as a drone operator, I don't think this needs to be a permanent address, temporary accommodation should be fine.

[@SpikeHammond]

@@theworldchasers thats interesting. Something I will look into Obrigado.

[@Iamtongue]

Holy shit this seems like alot of work! The amount of red tape to just to fly in certain areas is astonishing...

[@DSt3alth]

I'm thinking the exact same thing! I'm based in the UK and was due to fly out to Albufeira on the 20th June for 4 days and was thinking of bringing my Mini 3 pro to take some great photos/videos as I haven't travelled in 2 years due to the virus. I specifically bought this drone as I thought it would make my life easier when travelling, but with all this bureaucracy , I might as well bring my Inspire 2! Currently discussing with my girlfriend if this is even a good idea

[@Iamtongue]

@@DSt3alth I’d rather go as a ignorant tourist and just say I didn’t know to everything this is way too much. I just moved to the algarve 3 weeks ago. I’m looking to fly my drone the proper way now I just don’t feel like taking it out. I got the Mavic pro 3

[@theworldchasers]

Definitely a lot of red tape. Rules are still as described and, unfortunately, I don't see any changes coming up soon. What you end up finding is most people ignoring them, myself included...

[@Iamtongue]

@@theworldchasers have you had any run ins with teh local officials?

[@ricafragaa]

Gostava dessas leis no veiculos da via publica.... Andava tudo de Ape50

[@theflyingporch3375]

Hi and thanks for this great video. So just to let you know , i just applied to the Irish authorities to register myself as an operator. Their website says 3 to 10 days. But i am not flying to Ireland this year, but am flying to Portugal in July and would like to be able to fly in Portugal with my mavic 2 pro. I am from Canada but have dual citizenship and even have a residence in Portugal but i live in Canada. Trying to register on the anac website was impossible as i kept getting errors like you said in the video and could easily see this not being resolved in time for my trip. I have already though also applied with the aan with my various flight details and am just waiting for their approvals which shouldn't be long ( 1 approved already) . I havea few questions....how do i buy insurance for drone flying in Portugal from Canada? and do u know how much it is approximately? do if know if regular house insure in Portugal would cover that, any idea? Also What category would flying my mavic 2 pro for personal photography fall under? i am still slightly confused if its the A2 or A3 ...i thought it was the A2 but sounds like that might be the most restrctive no? maybe i am just confused there. Thank you.

[@theflyingporch3375]

I figured but getting registered in Ireland quicker, i can still use that registration in Portugal as well correct?

[@theworldchasers]

Hi there, thank you for your comment. I'll try to answer your questions. I would have done the exact same thing you did regarding ANAC and AAN. Ireland is an EU member state, therefore grants you an EU license/registration you can use in any EU country, as far as I know. Same thing applies to any training certificates. There are a couple of drone insurance companies you can use. I personally use Coverdrone (I'll write down other options below, let me just check). Coverdrone covers pilots in EU, UK, US and Canada I believe. 1 year cover was around 70 GBP for me, but it's better to obtain a quote directly from them or other companies. Unfortunately, house insurance does not cover drones, you need a drone-specific insurance that covers damage to property and third parties up to a certain amount. I use a Mavic Air 2, which falls into the same category as yours. As for categories, it depends on what you want to do with your drone. Currently, in this transitional period, you can fly a Mavic 2 Pro in the A3 or A2 subcategories. The same applies to any drone above 500gr in most countries and definitely in any EU country as they follow EASA rules. A1/A3 certificates are easy to obtain, even online, but you need to fly at least 150 meters away horizontally from residential, commercial or industrial areas. Training to obtain an A2 certificate is more complicated as it involves a theory and/or practical exam. However, it would allow you to fly your Mavic 2 Pro up to 50 meters horizontally from uninvolved people (30 meters in some countries/cases). Flying over people is not allowed in any category. Realistically, the difference is distance you need to keep away from people. Some countries apply other restrictions but for me, that's the major difference. However, at the end of the transitional period (2023), if you're drone does not have a C class sticker, you can only fly in the A3 subcategory. My advice these days to most people is: wait until drones with C class stickers are on the market before buying one, it's probably worth waiting if you're doing some close-up shots otherwise you will need to stay 150m away horizontally from pretty much everything. I hope I haven't complicated things even more and this helps.

[@theworldchasers]

Dronecoverclub, Eversure. But there are a lot of other companies online. These are based on CAA's recommendations, therefore for UK-based pilots. Coverdrone covers UK but also EU, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. Just make sure the policy you take from any insurance company complies with the EU regulation EC785/2004, if flying within the EU. Coverdrone offered me the best quote, I've got no connection whatsoever with them.

[@theflyingporch3375]

@@theworldchasers Amazing info !! Thank you so much for the quick reply on everything!! I will ook into the insurance you mention as well . muito obrigado! Are you anywhere near Praia Da Areia Branca? if so I would love to buy you a few beers!! I will be there in July and August!

[@theworldchasers]

@@theflyingporch3375 No problem, you also gave me a few ideas for a next video so thank you! Haha it's a bit far off for me, but I'll keep that in mind if somewhere around there. A few beers always sounds like a good plan. Take care buddy, de nada!

[@senovskym]

Thanks for the video, really well explained! But that's the only good thing about it. Fortunately not by your fault, I'm really dissapointed by all of those byrocratic stuff. Yesterday, I booked my flight tickets for Wednesday (which is in 4 days) to get some nice drone shots in Portugal - just to find out that you need approx. 60 days to ask for permission for flying your drone somewhere. That's a shame :/

[@theworldchasers]

Thank you for your comment. Yes, we share your opinion. Unfortunately this is something out of our hands, but we have shared our views with the authorities involved, hoping things will change sooner rather than later. Hope you enjoy your time in Portugal regardless 😀

[@rugzakkerreizen]

Is this really all necessary when flying your drone there? What about just proper registration and obeying the rules… You can’t do anything about it but this just doesn’t make any sense.

[@theworldchasers]

Yes, unfortunately it is. Registration stills seems to be an issue today. We couldn't agree more and coming from England, where registration is easy and you just need to follow the rules, we couldn't be more surprised and disappointed. The whole thing is really frustrating for someone based in Portugal and/or visitors.

[@1sheinz]

All of this and NEVER [ over 70 years ] HAS ONE PERSON been killed by a drone. And yet anyone with a cell phone or camera can take pictures from a hill and see into peoples yards and thats ok. People get over yourselves, you really are not that important.

[@theworldchasers]

True, still I didn't make up the rules.

[@fxly]

This is such an amazing system. I’m sure it’s providing employment for hundreds of Portuguese civil servants 😅🤓

[@rickbueno1534]

You need a tax payer ID number to get permission to fly, but you can only have a NIF if you pay taxes within EU... So what can we do there?

[@HEMI345S]

Typical EU bureaucracy, what a BS 😂😂😂