“Hi, I’m planning a trip to Spain from the UK, and I’m not sure what documents I need to bring with me. I’ve heard that things changed after Brexit, so I want to make sure I have everything ready before I go. Do I need a visa? Can I still travel with just my passport? Please help, I don’t want to get caught off guard!”
Since the Brexit transition, traveling between the United Kingdom and Spain has become slightly more regulated. However, Spain remains a part of the European Union, and the rules for traveling from the UK have changed mainly for non-EU citizens. Below is a guide to help you understand the documents required for your trip to Spain.
1. Passport
As a UK citizen, you will need a valid passport to enter Spain. This applies to both tourists and business travelers. Here are the important points to consider regarding your passport:
- Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure date from Spain.
- Blank Pages: Ensure your passport has at least one blank page available for immigration stamps.
- Post-Brexit Rules: Following Brexit, UK citizens are now treated as third-country nationals. This means you cannot use your National ID card to enter Spain. You will need a passport instead.
2. Visa (For Stays Longer Than 90 Days)
For short visits (up to 90 days within a 180-day period), UK citizens do not need a visa to travel to Spain. However, if you plan to stay in Spain for more than 90 days, you will need to apply for a residence visa.
Types of Visas:
- Tourist Visa: If you’re staying longer than 90 days for tourism purposes, you will need to apply for a long-term tourist visa.
- Work Visa: If you intend to work in Spain, you will need to apply for a work visa. This requires a job offer and approval from the Spanish authorities.
- Student Visa: For those planning to study in Spain for more than 90 days, a student visa is required.
You can apply for these visas at the Spanish consulate in the UK before your trip.
3. Proof of Financial Means
For tourists visiting Spain for a short stay, you may be asked to provide proof that you can financially support yourself during your trip. This can include:
- Bank statements showing sufficient funds.
- Credit card statements.
- Cash (although it’s best to avoid carrying large amounts).
- Proof of accommodation: Hotel bookings or an invitation letter from a host.
If you are staying in Spain longer-term (such as for work or study), you’ll need to show evidence that you can support yourself for the duration of your stay.
4. Travel Insurance
Spain requires travelers to have health insurance that covers medical expenses for the duration of their stay. If you are visiting for tourism, business, or as a student, you should ensure you have adequate travel insurance that includes coverage for:
- Emergency medical treatment
- Hospitalization
- Repatriation
- Medical evacuation
Make sure that your insurance company provides a certificate or confirmation that proves the coverage meets Spanish requirements. If you are applying for a long-term visa (work, study, or residence), you will need to provide proof of health insurance as part of the application.
5. COVID-19 Documentation (If Applicable)
Depending on the timing of your trip, Spain may have specific COVID-19 requirements for entry, such as:
- Negative PCR test or antigen test (if required by Spain at the time of travel).
- Proof of vaccination: If you are fully vaccinated, you might need to show a vaccine certificate.
- Passenger Locator Form: Spain may require you to fill out an online health control form before boarding your flight.
Always check the latest travel restrictions before your trip to ensure you meet all the requirements. These rules may change frequently based on the global health situation.
6. Evidence of Accommodation and Return Travel
You might also need to show evidence of your accommodation arrangements (hotel reservations, rental agreements, or an invitation letter from a host) and proof of your return travel (flight tickets back to the UK or another destination). This can help prove that your stay in Spain is temporary and within the 90-day limit allowed without a visa.
7. Driving License (Optional)
If you plan on driving in Spain, you can use your UK driving license to drive in Spain for up to six months. After this period, you may need to exchange your UK license for a Spanish one, depending on the new regulations post-Brexit.
However, if you plan to rent a car, always carry a valid UK driving license, and if your license is not in Spanish, it’s recommended to also have an International Driving Permit (IDP), especially if you plan to drive in rural areas.
8. Customs Declarations (If Applicable)
When arriving in Spain, you may need to declare certain goods, especially if you’re bringing in large sums of money (over €10,000) or items that are subject to duty or taxes. Make sure to check Spain’s customs rules on what you can bring into the country.
9. Travel and Health Documents for Pets (If Applicable)
If you’re traveling with pets, ensure that they meet the EU pet travel regulations. This includes having:
- A microchip for identification.
- An EU pet passport (with proof of rabies vaccination).
- A health certificate issued by a vet.
Check the specific regulations for traveling with pets before your trip to ensure smooth entry into Spain.
Documents Do I Need to Travel to Spain from the United Kingdom?
For UK citizens traveling to Spain, the main requirements are:
- A valid passport (with at least 3 months of validity).
- No visa needed for stays up to 90 days.
- Proof of sufficient financial means and health insurance.
- Accommodation and return travel details.
- Potential COVID-19 documentation (if required at the time of travel).
Be sure to check the latest entry requirements before your trip, especially since rules can change depending on the time of year and any ongoing health measures. Once you have all the necessary documents ready, you’ll be all set to enjoy your time in Spain!