Since Brexit, new passport and entry rules have come into force for Brits travelling to Spain
Millions of UK holidaymakers head to Spain each year(Image: aire images via Getty Images)
Millions of sun-seekers are set to flock to Spain this summer, with the popular European hotspot remaining a top choice for British tourists.
Before Brexit, UK travellers could enter Spain with relative ease. However, since Britain’s departure from the European Union, a raft of new regulations have taken effect. For example, your passport must show a ‘date of issue’ within 10 years of your arrival date, and if you renewed your passport before October 1, 2018, it could carry a date of issue of more than 10 years, making it invalid for entry into the Schengen zone (which includes Spain).
On top of this, those travelling on a British passport are only permitted to visit the Schengen area for 90 days in any 180-day period. And upon entering Spain, you’ll be required to scan your passport, have a photograph taken of your face, and scan four of your fingerprints, under the new Entry/Exit System (EES).
Once registered for travel under the EES, your digital EES record remains valid for three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes sooner. According to the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), in addition to a valid passport, UK visitors may need to present further documentation to gain entry into Spain.
For instance, you could be asked to provide a return or onward ticket and/or proof of valid travel insurance at border control. You may also need to show that you have sufficient funds for your stay, along with proof of accommodation.
This might be a hotel reservation, or the address of a property you own. Alternatively, it could be an invitation if you’re staying with friends, family, or a third party, such as a ‘carta de invitation’ completed by your hosts.
