We are being asked a lot about the new rules for travelling to Spain from the UK after Brexit? Below we will answer as many of those questions as we can, so as you have clear guidance around all of the rules.
How Does Brexit Affect Travel to Spain?
The Brexit deal was eventually agreed on 31st December 2020. That meant new Brexit rules came into place on 1st January 2021, and that means considerable change for many travellers from the UK to Spain.
Spain allows visa-free access for British visitors for "up to 3 months for tourism and business purposes."
So if you are planning a 1, 2 or 3 week holiday to sunny Spain you do not need a visa.
Passports will now be stamped with both the date of entry and the date of exit. That means that Britons will have to join the "All Passports lane" at EU airports. They may also be asked for additional paperwork such as a return ticket, proof of accommodation, financial means to cover the duration.
You also need to have at least six months left to run on your passport. Any extra time obtained by renewing the passport early may not count.
ETIAS Introduction
ETIAS is designed for tourism, business, transit, or medical purposes. It is not applicable for study or employment-related travel. (There is also a €7 fee). Your stay in the Schengen Area should not exceed 90 days in any 180-day period. Your British passport has to be valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure date from the Schengen Area.
There have been delays and latest information is the scheme will be starting in mid-2025
European Countries Requiring ETIAS
These 30 European countries require visa-exempt travelers to have an ETIAS travel authorisation
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
UK nationals and their family members who are beneficiaries of the Withdrawal Agreement are exempt from ETIAS: they may reside on the territory of their EU host country and travel to other European countries requiring ETIAS as long as they hold documents proving their status.
How long can you stay in Spain as a tourist post Brexit?
This is known as the 90/180 day rule. It applies to any UK nationals since 1st January 2021. This means you are not allowed to spend more than 90 days in any 180 day period in Spain. This rule also applies to second home owners in Spain.
Can you Bring Your Pet to Spain post Brexit?
British citizens can no longer apply for a European pet passport in Britain. (If you still have an EU valid pet passport, that can continue to be used until it has expired)
Anyone from Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales) must now ensure that their dog, cat or other pet has the following:
- A microchip
- Up to date rabies vaccinations (Please note that your pet must be at least 12 weeks old before it can be vaccinated) You need to wait 21 days after any primary vaccinations before you travel so you also need to be aware of this.
- An animal health certificate (AHC) - this has to be issued by an Official Veterinarian (OV) In other words from your vet. You need to bring your pet, any vaccination records, medical records and proof of rabies vaccination to the vet
Average Costs for Each
Microchipping
£16.28 (One-off)
Rabies Vaccination
£50.40 (every 3 years)
Animal Health Certificate
£110 (Valid for 4 months)
What Procedures are Currently Required to Travel to Spain post Brexit?
This is an ever changing and evolving process and subject to change depending on any current Government restrictions that are imposed. These can change suddenly so just be aware of that.
As of November 2021 the UK no longer has any red listed countries.
The Spanish government does require all arrivals to Spain from the UK to present on entry a Health Control Form (electronic form) and either a negative COVID-19 test; or proof of vaccination.
Useful Spain and Travel Information & Resources
UK Foreign Travel Advice website - covers travel to 226 countries or territories