spain travel advice update

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Warnings and insurance

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide and any specific travel advice that applies to you:

• women travellers
• disabled travellers
• LGBT+ travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

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If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

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Guide to Spain’s travel rules: what are the entry requirements for foreign tourists?

Here is an overview of the current restrictions on visitors coming from the european union, the united kingdom and the rest of the world.

The summer season has arrived and Spain is hoping for an influx of foreign visitors to revitalize its struggling tourism and hospitality sectors. While an uptick in domestic travel is helping, businesses know that the numbers will only add up when the international visitors show up.

Due to coronavirus measures in place, the options for travel to Spain will depend on the reasons for the trip (whether it’s for an essential purpose or for leisure), on the country of origin (part of the European Union or not) and on the visitor’s vaccination status.

But the differences in international mobility will most particularly depend on the visitor’s place of origin. Travel within the EU will be aided by the Digital Covid Certificate , which has been approved for use from July 1 and which Spain is already issuing.

Provided below are the answers to a few common questions about travel to Spain in the coming months.

Are there any restrictions on travel within the EU?

Movement within the EU is allowed, and the access requirements are the same across the territory. To ensure this, Brussels has developed a system known as the Digital Covid Certificate or Digital Green Pass (or more popularly as the vaccine passport), which lets bearers easily prove that they meet the conditions for entering another member state: either being fully vaccinated (the last dose must have been administered at least 14 days before travel), or having recovered from Covid-19, or being in possession of a negative diagnostic test (either PCR or antigen) taken 48 hours before arrival. This certificate is issued by national authorities in the national language and in English, and can be used in all member states.

Depending on the epidemiological situation, travelers from some parts of Europe will not be required to show evidence of vaccination, testing or recovery. These are the areas marked green in the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control’s traffic light system.

Are there non-EU countries whose residents may travel restriction-free?

There is a list of countries and special regions whose residents are not affected by the temporary restriction on non-essential travel to the EU due to their good control of the pandemic. They are Albania, Australia, South Korea, United States, Israel, Japan, Lebanon, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Rwanda, Serbia, Singapore, Thailand, Taiwan, China and the special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macao (subject to the principle of reciprocity). Visitors from these parts of the world will not be asked for proof of testing, vaccination or recovery. The United Kingdom was on this list as well, but this is changing on Friday due to a spike in infections in recent weeks.

What are the requirements for UK residents?

Starting on Friday, Spain will demand a negative diagnostic test (” NAAT type, e.g TMA, PCR, LAMP & NEAR ,” not antigen tests ) or proof of full vaccination from UK travelers, due to concerns over the delta variant of the coronavirus . These test results must have been issued within 48 hours of arrival into Spain. (Full information is available here at the gov.uk website.)

Is leisure travel to Spain from other non-EU countries allowed?

Visitors from other non-EU countries coming to Spain for leisure purposes must show proof of vaccination with one of the vaccines authorized by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) or the World Health Organization (WHO), with the second dose administered at least 14 days before travel. Non-vaccinated travelers will not be allowed into Spain for tourism, even if they have a negative diagnostic test or have recovered from Covid-19, or if they received a vaccine that has not been approved by the EMA or WHO.

What about children who are not being vaccinated yet?

Children under 12 traveling with an adult who has been immunized with an EMA or WHO-approved vaccine may freely enter Spain.

Are there any exceptions?

Yes. The Spanish government may leave out countries where new coronavirus variants pose a health risk. This is already happening with India, whose residents may not come to Spain on tourism even if they have been fully vaccinated. In practice, leisure trips from Brazil and South Africa are also off-limits since only flights carrying Spanish or Andorran nationals (or passengers in transit) are allowed into the country.

Are any additional documents necessary?

Yes. Regardless of the country of origin, travelers coming in by air or sea, including those in transit and children under 12, must fill out a health form available on www.spth.gob.es or via the mobile app Spain Travel Health. This will generate a QR code that must be shown before departure and at arrival.

English version by Susana Urra .

More information

Despite eased rules, outdoor masking endures in Spain

Spain will require travelers from UK to show diagnostic test or be fully vaccinated

• Francés online
• Inglés online
• Italiano online
• Alemán online
• Crucigramas & Juegos

9 Helpful Steps to Navigate Spain’s Entry Requirements (with health form instructions)

Whether you’ve been traveling all through covid or are just emerging from your den like a covid groundhog, you’re thinking about Spain as your next destination, huh? Isn’t it great to be able to travel (again)?  

While I do reminisce about the times when face masks weren’t an automatic travel accessory , I haven’t been deterred from travel by this pandemic. During travel to places like Chile , Mexico , South Africa and yes, Spain , I humbly think I deserve some sort of knighthood for navigating the ever-changing covid restrictions of the world. Or at least a small trophy.  

I congratulate you for finding this post, for it is the single most useful source of Spain’s travel restrictions. Now you, too, can reap the benefits of my experience for your own trip. I mentioned I was humble, right?  

I’m just kidding, I’m not that full of myself. But I do think this will be useful for your travels. You’ll be eating tapas and baking on the beaches of Mallorca in no time!  

You might also be interested in reading:

• Andalusia Itinerary: Southern Spain in 10 Days
• Barcelona Itinerary: 5 days in Gaudí’s Metropole (with day trips)
• All You Need to Know about Spanish Tapas (+Restaurant Tips)
• The 10 Best Museums in Spain’s Top Cities
• The 16 Most Beautiful Beaches in Spain

​ Your guide to Spain’s current entry requirements

Look how cool she looks! This is the lady from Spain’s Entry Requirements video  

To make this post useful for longer than a week , I’ve focused on including links to websites where you will need check the current entry requirements before you travel to Spain. There’s no use telling you what Spain’s travel restrictions are now, in the beginning of February 2022, when they update them literally every 7 days .   

I’ve got to say that Spain has made figuring out travel restrictions very user-friendly , and it’s a breath of fresh air. The websites, documents and videos that Spain has put together are all targeted at actual humans ! I have made several comments on the great user experience within this post, I just can’t help myself.  

Compared to, say, Czech sources, which use sentences that span 5 lines and are full of lingo that not even the person writing it probably understands. It’s all so high-strung and formal . Sheesh, stop freaking out, it’s just a pandemic!  

After checking similar US and UK websites for comparison, I have to give Spain a standing ovation . Even these other countries make covid restrictions look like no fun. At least the UK doesn’t use as much red as the US. What do they want to do, scare us into not coming ?  

Anyway, rant over . Now let’s get down to business. Here are my tips for making traveling to Spain during covid easy peasy: 

1. The best websites to check for Spain’s travel restrictions

Water: check! Masks: check! Hiking in El Torcal can begin!   

Spain Travel Health Portal —This is the top spot to check . Here you’ll get all the current information about Spain’s entry requirements and restrictions relating to covid. It is exhaustive, easy to understand and in English! Plus in a variety of languages spoken in Spain.  

That there are so many languages spoken in Spain is still fascinating to me. Read more about Spain here to learn more fun facts.  

There is even a handy little 4-minute video that tells you all the basics of traveling to Spain at the moment. Watch this first so you don’t get frustrated trying to make sense of the written information in the 30 tabs you will have open by the end of your research.  

Side note: I love that the avatar of the lady talking you through the video is wearing statement earrings , hipster glasses, and unruly hair. In my country, she’d be sporting a high bun and a high neckline, probably with a stern facial expression. The Spanish representative is so Spanish !  

Health Ministry of Spain —This link will take you to the covid section in English [update 2023: link no longer works, covid is gone, hoorah!] . There are many long, blue, clickable drop-down menus on the bottom half of the page. These summarize things like risk and high risk countries and, covid document requirements, procedures on arrival etc. Most of them then give you a link to the Travel Health Portal mentioned above, where you’ll find the complete info.   

Risk and high risk countries —I want to mention the list of risk and high risk countries specifically, because it is updated every week . There is a pdf document that is re-uploaded every 7 days in one of the drop-down menus on the Health Ministry’s website mentioned above.   

There is a FAQ pdf under the “Health control form and accepted certificates” menu on the Health Ministry’s website  [update 2023: link no longer works, covid is gone, hoorah!] . It contains detailed information on what types of certificates are accepted and what they need to include to be valid for entry.  

Health form —See the section below for all the details about how and when to fill out the passenger locator form aka health form. Anyone entering Spain, including returning Spanish nationals and people in transit, needs to fill this out and obtain a QR code . There is an individual form and a group/family form . If you are arriving by ferry or cruise ship, there is a different form for you (also available for groups here ).  

The current rule is that at least the last dose of your vaccine must be authorized by the World Health Organization or the European Medicines Agency in order for it to be accepted for entry into Spain. Check the individual links of the agencies mentioned and see if you’re ok to go. Then check the vaccination section below to read more details.  

It’s also good to be able to check the latest Spanish news in general. The Local is a good website in English with a dedicated covid section. 

Tip: Your hotel will be a good source of travel requirement information, too. Contact the reception ahead of your trip if you have any questions about practicalities. In case you get sick during your trip, they will also be able to help you figure out how to get tested for covid.  

2. Spain’s entry requirements based on where you are from

If you’re here, you’ve either navigated Spain’s travel restrictions or you're about be sent home. Good luck!    

Your journey to Spain will start not at the airport, but at your computer or smartphone. And, for a lot of people, months before that, with a needle in their shoulder .  

Spain has varying entry requirements depending on where you come from .  There are two groups, EU and 3 rd countries, further divided by the level of covid risk you pose to Spain.  

Here is an overview of the general rules of entry as of February 10, 2022. The categories are updated weekly, but the basic requirements seem to stay the same, at least for the time being. Even so, always, always, read the most current information in the links provided below.   

I wanted to put this list right in the beginning so you could clearly see if you need a vaccination . That is the one thing that could prevent you from going to Spain at all. See below for further explanations on the individual requirements.  

EU nationals in the “no risk” category  

• Health form 

EU nationals in the “risk” category  

• Full vaccination or negative test or recovery 
• Children under 12 years old only present the health form 

EU nationals in the “high risk” category  

• Full vaccination or recovery 
• Negative test 

3 rd countries in general  

+ either: 

• belong to one of the categories specified in the list [update 2023: link no longer works, covid is gone, hoorah!]  that mean you are an essential traveler (find the long, blue drop-down menu for 3 rd country nationals in the bottom half of the page)  
• full vaccination (including children under 12 years old)— UK nationals must always be vaccinated for travel to Spain, there’s no way around it 
• be on the list of exempt countries (find the long, blue drop-down menu for 3 rd country nationals in the bottom half of the page), currently e.g. New Zealand, UAE or China  

3 rd countries in the “risk” category  

• Meet the general entry requirements for 3 rd country nationals (see above) 
• Full vaccination or negative test or recovery (UK nationals, including children under 12 years old, must have full vaccination in all cases) 

3 rd countries in the “high risk” category  

• Full vaccination or recovery (UK nationals, including children under 12 years old, must have full vaccination in all cases) 

3 rd country nationals are subject to taking a covid test upon arrival in Spain if the employee at the airport decides that they want you to. This is even if you present all the documents you are required to have with you.   

3. Where to find Spain’s passenger locator form, FCS or whatchamacallit  

The first part of Spain’s health form, before you get your security code  

You’ve decided that you are able to jump through all the hoops that Spain has so jovially set up for travelers. Now it’s time to fill out the health form —otherwise known as the passenger locator form—the basic document you will need to be allowed entry to the country .  

Tip : In Spanish, this form is called Formulario de Control Sanitario . On many websites, you will see this form being referred to as FCS form or health control form . We’ll stick to health form.  

One more time for the people in the back: You can be vaccinated all you want, but if you can’t present the QR code from this health form at the airport, you can turn around and go home .  

This is true even if you are just in transit or are a Spanish national. The only time you do not need it is if you drive into Spain.

These are the choices of passenger locator forms, or FCS, on Spain’s Travel Health Portal  

The health form is available either through Spain’s Travel Health Portal , or through an app called SpHT . The app makes it slightly easier because you will have all your travel form information and the resulting QR code in one spot.  

Every single person traveling has to have their own QR code. Each form is valid for a particular person and a particular trip . It is not transferable in any way. Children are people too , so make sure they have their own form filled out.  

You can fill out an individual form or a family/group form . The details you are required to fill in for each person are the same in both forms. The group form just allows you to skip the first verification step for every other person besides the one filling in the form.  

Out top tips for navigating Spain’s entry requirements:  

• Start slow: Watch this video for an overview of requirements
• Use this website for current info: Spain Travel Health Portal
• Start filling out your health form only after online check-in for your flight

4. Tips on filling out Spain’s Health Form

We conquered Spain’s entry requirements, not we can conquer this hike in Mallorca  

Whatever you do, don’t pay the silly amounts that I’ve seen some websites ask for completing the process for you. It takes about 10 minutes to fill out the whole thing and is straightforward (and free).  

Here’s what you need to know:  

When to submit the health form  

You can start filling out the form once you have your flight details, but it won’t allow you to finish the process earlier than 48 hours before your planned arrival to Spain . You can return to your pre-filled out form whenever you want to finish it and hit submit.  

If you want to get it done in one sitting, wait until after you check in online for your flight. One of the flight details you will need to fill in is your seat number, and you won’t have that before you check in. 

What information do you need to have ready?  

Besides your personal and flight details , have your hotel information , passport, and covid documents on hand.  

To begin , enter your name, date of birth, passport number, travel date and flight number. If you have connecting flights, you will want to use the flight information of the final leg of your flight , i.e. the one that lands in Spain.  

This first screen also allows you to check a box if you are just in transit or if you will be traveling with a child .  

After this little intro, you will receive a security code in your email. You need that code to move on in the passenger locator form filling-in process (try saying that 3 times fast!).  

The 5 steps in the health form  

Once you enter the security code, you will be taken to another 5 steps that you need to work through.  

The first screen are your personal details like address and telephone number.  

Next, more flight details . This time including your seat number. It is mandatory to enter that information, which is why I recommend waiting until after online check-in to fill out your health form.  

You will also be asked about your address in Spain . In case you will be moving around, fill in your first accommodation .  

In the next step, you will be asked about your travel history in the past 14 days. If you have any connecting flights in any other countries, include those countries as well.  

You’ve already entered the final leg of your flight in the first steps, but you will also be asked about your originating flight . This is important because this is what your covid document requirement s are based on.  

After you choose the reason for your travel, you go to the fourth step, health questions and covid documents .  

If you have an EU COVID Digital Certificate (choose QR Fast Control), you’ll upload it directly into the health form and it will be automatically checked. If you have paper documents (Documentary Control), you will spend a few minutes filling out all of the details from your certificate manually.  

Important! Whichever covid document you use to get your QR code is the document you will be expected to present at the airport when traveling. So don’t put in your vaccine information into the form and then travel with a recovery document. They will mind.  

For children under 12 years old who do not need covid documentation , this is called Fast Control.  

The final screen is just you confirming that you won’t travel if you are presenting symptoms that could be covid-related.  

Like I said, if you have all the information on hand, you shouldn’t have any trouble with this form. There is a FAQ section for the health form that you can refer to if you get stuck [update 2023: link no longer works, covid is gone, hoorah!] .  

If you are arriving by ferry or cruise ship , there is a different form for you (also available for groups here ). The general idea and process is the same, you just need your vessel info instead of your flight info.  

If you are driving into Spain, you don’t need an FCS form at all. (Make sure to check current info before you travel!)  

Get your personal QR code  

Once you enter your health form, your personal QR code will be generated for you. This process starts automatically, you don’t need to do anything to get it. Your QR code will also be sent to your email, you will get a text message with a link to it and it is also saved in the app if you are using it.  

At the airport, usually before and after your flight, you need to present the QR code on your phone or printed out on paper . That’s it.  

5. Are all vaccinations accepted?

Full vaccination is one of the covid documents you can use to enter Spain  

If you finished your vaccination before February 1, 2022 and didn’t have the booster by then, your previously “fully vaccinated” status ends 270 days after your last dose. Once it ends, you need the booster to restart your certificate’s validity.  

If you are finishing your vaccinations after February 1, 2022 you have to have the booster shot to be considered fully vaccinated. You are good to travel from the day your booster was administered.  

No matter where you’re from , at least the last dose of your vaccine must be one authorized by the World Health Organization or the European Medicines Agency .  

You can present proof of vaccination in the form of an EU Covid Digital Certificate or you can bring a paper original of your certificate. This must be in either Spanish, English, French or German.  

If you are only in a Spanish airport on a layover , you do not have to present a covid certificate of any kind.  

Be sure to double-check this information before your trip at the links mentioned at the beginning of this article.  

6. What does a recovery certificate look like?

Traveling after conquering covid  

Have you had covid? Great! I mean since you are considering travel, I expect you did ok. If not, I’m glad you’re ok now! You can use that experience to count as your covid document .  

Spain currently accepts recovery as proof of your covid immunity for 180 after the sample date of your positive PCR test. You can start packing your bags at least 11 days after your test first. That’s the earliest Spain will accept your recovery document.  

Your certificate has to include the date of your first positive test, indicate that you are no longer contagious, and state the country where the certificate was issued. 

Your test result must be in the form of an EU Covid Digital Certificate or a paper original in Spanish, English, French or German.   

Before you travel, check that the requirements are still the same on the Spanish Health Ministry’s website [update 2023: link no longer works, covid is gone, hoorah!] .  

7. Antigen or PCR test?

This isn't what you want to see after taking your Antigen or PCR test...  

Spain currently accepts both types of tests as proof that you won’t be spreading covid in their beautiful country . At the time of writing that is. Spain’s Travel Health Portal is easy enough to check for current requirements. The Health Ministry has a nifty drop-down menu thingy for a summary of testing information as well [update 2023: link no longer works, covid is gone, hoorah!] .  

Also at the time of writing, your negative PCR test result (or other type of NAAT test) can’t be older than 72 hours before your arrival in Spain, while the antigen (or RAT) test must be carried out a maximum of 24 hours before arrival. It’s good to know that your time starts ticking the moment that cotton swab goes up your nose , not when you get your test result, so plan your test times accordingly.  

Just like the other certificates, your test result must be either in the form of an EU Covid Digital Certificate or a paper original in Spanish, English, French or German.  

For full details of what the certificate needs to include, check out the FAQ pdf under the “Health control form and accepted certificates” menu on the Health Ministry’s website [update 2023: link no longer works, covid is gone, hoorah!].

8. What else could they possibly want?

Christopher Columbus ignored all the travel restrictions during his travels from Spain (at CC’s tomb in Sevilla )      

Don’t forget to consult your airline’s travel restrictions as well. Most often, they enforce whatever the destination country requires, but they can be extra diligent and have other conditions of their own, too.  

Also check if the countries you are transferring through have a set of their very own requirements for layover passengers. Nobody travels without a mask nowadays, but you might need extra documents even if Spain doesn’t ask you for them.  

Remember : You need to abide not only by Spain’s entry requirements, but also take into consideration your airline and countries from the other legs of your trip. It is always your responsibility to check these, not the airline’s or your mom’s.   

9. What are the covid restrictions once you are in Spain?

Ready for travel after conquering all of Spain’s entry requirements! Where to start? Mhmmm...maybe Cordoba ?  

You’ve successfully arrived to the country, checked into your hotel , now what? The usual— wear masks indoors , wash your hands, don’t cough into people’s faces or lick door handles.  

Social distancing isn’t really a thing in Spain , but you can try your best. Spaniards are known for popping everyone’s personal bubble within two seconds of meeting them. Good luck keeping your distance.  

Always have your covid document with you in case you are asked for it when sitting down at a restaurant or museum.  

Some popular tourist places now also require booking in advance so they can limit the number of people visiting at a time. The famed Alhambra Palace in Granada is one of those places (more tips on the best places to visit in Andalusia here ).   

If you do cough, have a fever or feel sick, get tested and stop sightseeing before you get a negative test result. It might be leftover travel fever, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. You can ask your hotel concierge or reception to provide you with information on where to get tested. Or, call the covid hotline number for the region you are staying in.   

The emergency number in Spain is 112 . Call this number if you need urgent healthcare.  

This post may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commission if you make bookings through my links, at no additional cost to you. This helps us keep this blog free, thank you!  

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SPAIN TRAVEL UPDATE: UK will now issue COVID passport to over-12s

On Monday December 13, the UK government’s website updated its travel advice section for those entering Spain from the UK.

In their Foreign Travel Advice (Spain) section , they now state the following: From 13 December, fully vaccinated children aged 12 to 15 can request an NHS COVID Pass letter for international travel. 

Following an update to UK advice, fully vaccinated children aged 12-15 are now able to get an NHS COVID pass for international travel. For more information please visit the link below. ? https://t.co/yxp2l2xU7Z pic.twitter.com/ffEE4EXtyO — Spain in UK (@Spain_inUK) December 14, 2021

Travellers are then urged to refer to the sub-section, “Using your NHS COVID Pass for travel abroad – Children.”

Since December 1 Spain has required all UK citizens over the age of 12 to provide proof of vaccination.

Many regions in Spain also require Covid passes to be shown in order to enter bars, restaurants or nightlife venues.

However, it is also stressed that children under the age of 12 years old do not need to:

• show proof of being fully vaccinated on entry to Spain
• take diagnostic tests prior to arrival
• meet the requirements outlined in the “Spanish Ministry of Health ‘Travel and COVID-19’ page”, even if they have visited a ‘risk country’ in the previous 14 days Children aged 12 and over must follow the general entry requirements.

?Attention travellers to ??: please read carefully the following guidance?? pic.twitter.com/H4aK62ngG6 — Embassy of Spain UK (@EmbSpainUK) November 30, 2021

Travellers of any age arriving in Spain, including children under 12 years old, arriving by air or sea must fill in and sign an online Health Control Form before arriving in Spain no more than 48 hours before travel.

• All you need to know about Covid Passports in Spain
• UPDATE: What you need to know about new travel rules between Spain and UK now pre-flight testing is required

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Spain travel advice: What are the latest rules and where can I visit?

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Spain , Britain’s favourite holiday destination pre-Covid, was among the first countries on the travel corridors list this summer .

It meant that it was exempt from the Foreign Office’s (FCDO) blanket advisory against international travel and holidaymakers didn’t need to quarantine on return to the UK.

But just a short few weeks later, Spain was removed from the “safe” list after a spike in cases, triggering a devastating routine of destinations being struck off from – and very occasionally added to – the travel corridors list every Thursday.

There was at last some good news in the latest travel corridors update: the Canary Islands have returned to the list of “safe” destinations , in time for half-term and potentially for winter sun in the months to come.

But what about visiting the rest of Spain? What are the rules and restrictions in place? Here’s what you need to know.

The following advice applies to mainland Spain as well as the islands, with the exception of the Canary Islands. You can find specific travel advice for the Canary Islands here .

Am I allowed to travel to Spain from the UK?

Technically yes. While the FCDO currently advises against travelling to all of Spain with the exception of the Canary Islands, it is not illegal to travel there. However, if you travel against FCDO advice, it may invalidate your travel insurance.

How can I get there?

There are direct flights from the UK to many major Spanish cities with carriers including Ryanair, easyJet, Wizz Air, British Airways, Air Europa and Iberia.

Alternatively you can catch a ferry – Portsmouth has direct services to Bilbao and Santander, for example. It is also possible to travel from the UK to Spain by train, via France, but bear in mind there may be additional travel restrictions in place.

Will they let me in when I arrive?

Yes, Spain’s borders are open to the UK.

• Lockdown tiers: What do the coronavirus restrictions mean for travel?

However, the country is currently in a nationwide State of Emergency (from 25 October, for a minimum of 15 days), which means there may be additional local restrictions in place. In some cases, only those with essential reasons for travel – such as work, for transit, or medical purposes – will be permitted to enter or exit a region.

You will also need to fill in the Spanish government’s health form within 48 hours of travel. This will include your contact details as well as your history of exposure to Covid-19. Once you’ve completed the form, you will be sent a QR code, which you will need to show on arrival.

Once you get to Spain, you will also be temperature checked and undergo a visual health assessment. Those presenting with coronavirus symptoms will have to see a health professional.

Will I have to take a Covid-19 PCR test?

No, Spain doesn’t require visitors to have negative Covid-19 PCR test results.

Will I have to quarantine when I arrive?

No, Spain does not require travellers from the UK to quarantine when they enter.

Will I have to quarantine when I come home?

With the exception of the Canary Islands, yes.

The rest of Spain is currently not on the UK government’s travel corridors list, which means those returning from mainland Spain and other islands, such as the Balearics, will need to self-isolate for 14 days.

Can I travel within Spain?

In general yes, but there may be some restrictions on travel due to the current nationwide State of Emergency. This means non-essential travel won’t be allowed.

The FCDO advises checking the region you’re travelling to and from before making your journey as local restrictions can be introduced at short notice.

Transiting through a restricted region is permissible, but you may need to show evidence of an onward journey.

Are hotels open?

Yes, but you should double check. 

While hotels have been permitted to open since mid-May, some may have closed after a quieter summer season. This is particularly true in areas affected by additional local restrictions.

Are restaurants, shops and attractions open?

It depends on where you’re visiting.

• All the Caribbean islands you can visit right now

In areas affected by local restrictions, such as Catalonia, restaurants and bars are closed. In other areas, there’s a curfew starting between 10pm and midnight (you can eat until 1am), until 6am the following morning. Tables are limited to a maximum of 10, although there may be additional restrictions on numbers in place; there are capacity limits and you should allow at least 1.5m for social distancing; and you should expect greater use of digital menus as well as self-service.

Shops are open but there may be limits on capacity, implementation of one-way systems, and the wearing of masks is essential.

Most attractions are open, but again, check whether local restrictions have affected their opening times. Some activities, especially interactive or hand-operated ones, will be closed. You will generally need to book as there will be limits on capacity and there will be one-way systems to minimise contact.

Beach access is similar – there are capacity limits and in some cases you may need to book.

In many cases, including in shops, you will be expected to leave your details to allow contact tracing.

What rules are in place?

Spain has made the wearing of face coverings mandatory for anyone over the age of six on public transport and in many indoor and outdoor public spaces. The only exceptions are for those with disabilities or respiratory conditions, or when you’re eating and drinking or exercising.

You must wear masks when entering beaches, swimming pools or outdoor areas, and when you’re moving around. However, you can take off your mask when you’re swimming, or when you’re sitting or lying in one spot with at least 1.5 metres between you and people outside of your group. All of these areas will also have additional capacity restrictions in place.

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Travelling to Spain? Map to Chart Entry Requirements

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Update: Important information

To travel to Spain if you have an EU DCC, or equivalent EU it is not necessary to complete the SpTH health control form.

On the homepage you can find more information about the vaccination, recovery or diagnostic test DCCs that are valid for travelling to Spain.

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Are you travelling to Spain? Update on Covid entry requirements for residents of Spain from February 1, 2022 who are not vaccinated nor can provide a Covid Certificate can now enter with an antigen or NAAT test:

Diagnostic Certificate. Diagnostic test certificates for active COVID-19 infection with a negative result belonging to any of the following types will be accepted as valid: 1. Molecular nucleic acid amplification tests (NAAT), whose sample has been obtained within 72 hours prior to arrival in Spain. 2. Antigen detection test included in the common list of rapid antigen detection tests for COVID-19, published by the European Commission based on Council Recommendation 2021/C 24/01, whose sample has been obtained within the 24 hours prior to arrival in Spain.

The diagnostic test certificate must include, at least, the following information: 1. Name and surname of the holder. 2. Date of sample collection. 3. Type of test performed. 4. Issuing country.»

Second. Effectiveness. This resolution will take effect from February 1, 2022. High risk countries from February 1, 2022 (includes visitors from the U.K)as published in December:

Applies to:

Entry requirements may vary if your reason for travel to Spain falls into one of the categories listed as ‘essential’ – section ‘a’ to ‘i’ – on the Spanish Ministry of Health Travel and COVID-19 page. This includes residents of Spain. If you are an EU citizen, an accompanying family member of an EU citizen, including UK citizens and other non-EU citizens who are travelling with EU family members (including for tourism), a resident of Spain, or if one of the other exemptions listed applies to you, you will be required to present one of the following on entry:

documentation certifying that you have undertaken a COVID-19 nucleic acid amplification (NAAT) test (e.g. PCR, TMA, LAMP or NEAR) within 72 hours prior to arrival in Spain, or an antigen test taken within 24 hours of arrival, and tested negative a medical certificate certifying that you have recovered from COVID-19 in the last 6 months prior to travel

Vaccination certificate.

Vaccination certificates issued by the competent authorities of the country of origin from 14 days after the date of administration of the last dose of the complete vaccine schedule (primary vaccination) will be accepted as valid, provided that no more than 270 days from the date of administration of the last dose of said regimen. From that moment on, the vaccination certificate issued by the competent authority of the country of origin must reflect the administration of a booster dose.

Complete vaccination guidelines (primary vaccination) are defined as those established in the Vaccination Strategy against COVID-19 in Spain.

The vaccination certificate must include, at least, the following information:

1. Name and surname of the holder.

2. Date of vaccination, indicating the date of the last dose administered.

3. Type or types of vaccine administered.

4. Number of doses administered/complete regimen.

5. Issuing country.

6. Identification of the issuing body of the vaccination certificate.»

Second. Effectiveness.

This resolution will be effective as of December 30, 2021, except as regards the modification of section Six, which will be applicable as of February 1, 2022.

Does not apply to:

Important update to come into effect from December 1.  Does not apply to legal residents of Spain.

Information from the UK government.

Rules effective from 1 december 2021. please note the relevant passage about vaccinations. first paragraph under heading “rules effective from 1 december 2021 relevant..

Information

Latest information from the French Government

List of pressing grounds from “Orange” countries

Click on the map to check the applicable entry requirements for the country you are travelling from and the restrictions for your return home.

You can also find out what measures are in place for each region you are visiting during your stay in Spain.

For travel from Spain to other countries not on the list, click on Latest News before posting questions.

Use this interactive map if your country is on the list.

Travelling within Spain and the Islands.

Regions and islands Map

Unfortunately the link cannot be picked up so go to for example United Kingdom. Click on:

Ten click on:

Further Information on the Spain Health Travel Site Update on certificates and tests in force from July 14.

First. Modification of the validity of the diagnostic certificate.

The Seventh section of the Resolution of June 4, 2021 is modified, which is worded as follows:

“Seventh. Diagnostic Certificate.

Diagnostic test certificates for active COVID-19 infection with a negative result belonging to one of the following types will be accepted as valid:

1. Molecular nucleic acid amplification tests (NAAT), the sample of which has been obtained within 72 hours prior to arrival in Spain.

2. Antigen detection test included in the common list of rapid antigen detection tests for COVID-19, published by the European Commission based on Council Recommendation 2021 / C 24/01, whose sample has been obtained within the 48 hours prior to arrival in Spain.

The diagnostic test certificate must include, at least, the following information:

1. Name and surname of the owner.

2. Date of sample collection.

3. Type of test performed.

4. Issuing country. »

This resolution will take effect from July 14, 2021.

Travelling overland. Thank you to the UK governor this information:

Testing requirements for overland travellers All overland travellers (excluding children under the age of 6 years old) who wish to enter Spain by road or rail from France, are required to present a negative PCR, TMA or LAMP test taken within 72 hours prior to entry. The following groups are exempt from this requirement:

Residents and antigen tests:

Haulage workers Frontier workers Residents of border regions within a radius of 30 km While these testing requirements don’t apply to overland travellers from Portugal, Andorra and Gibraltar, travel into Spain from all locations is limited.

Balearic Islands Canary Islands

, Antigen Tests for residents of Spain

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Spain lifts final Covid rules for UK travellers

• Published 21 October 2022
• Coronavirus

Brits travelling to Spain can enter the country without having to prove their Covid or vaccination status, after travel restrictions were dropped.

Before, people needed to show they were fully-vaccinated, provide a negative Covid test or prove they had recently recovered.

The drop in the remaining Covid restrictions comes as families prepare to head off on half-term holidays.

Travel agents said a "final hurdle" for holidays had been removed.

Other European destinations such as France, Italy and Greece lifted their rules prior to Spain, which is the most popular destination for UK overseas holidaymakers.

The Spanish Health Ministry announced on Thursday that people entering from outside the European Union would no longer be subject to the controls, effective from Friday.

Julia Lo Bue-Said, chief executive of the travel agent network Advantage Travel Partnership, said restrictions had been a barrier, particularly for people who were not vaccinated.

"We saw other destinations where restrictions were eased earlier in the year, such as Greece, benefit from an overall increase in demand over the summer", she said.

Ms Lo Bue-Said described Spain's move as "better late than never and good news".

It's not the first time Spain has been relatively slow to ease its Covid rules.

The requirement for children over the age of 12 to be double vaccinated to enter the Spanish mainland was only scrapped just before the February half-term, after tourism businesses warned that it was driving families to book trips to other countries instead.

Many countries around the world including the US still have Covid entry rules in place.

Travel firms have continued to report strong demand for bookings, despite the cost of living pressures affecting households, with Heathrow Airport saying it expects Christmas to be busy.

However, it warned there was still uncertainty about the winter due to "growing economic headwinds, a new wave of Covid, and the escalating situation in Ukraine".

The industry had a difficult summer as demand for international travel bounced back strongly, but businesses found themselves struggling to cope amid staffing shortages.

It still faces various challenges as it looks to recover, including in recruitment as the labour market remains tight.

Elsewhere, the Port of Dover and Eurostar are in discussions with the French and UK governments about how a new EU border control system will work.

The IT system due to come in next May, will require travellers to register their fingerprints and a photo when leaving the UK, but Dover is concerned that the registration process could cause queues.

Related Topics

More on this story.

Dover summer travel warning over new border system

• Published 29 September 2022

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Spain travel advice

Latest updates: The Need help? section was updated.

Last updated: April 11, 2024 07:18 ET

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Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, spain - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Spain due to the threat of terrorism

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Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, is common. It’s most prevalent in larger cities and particularly during holidays, festivals and weekends.

Thieves work alone or in groups and may use various techniques to distract you and steal your belongings, such as asking for directions or informing you of a stain on your clothes.

Individuals posing as plainclothes police officers may ask to see your passport, IDs or wallets. In this situation, politely ask to see their official identification badge to verify that the request is legitimate.

Thieves are especially active in crowded areas, such as:

• airports and public transportation facilities
• hotel lobbies
• restaurants, patios and outdoor cafés
• tourist attractions

In Madrid, thieves are particularly active in the following areas:

• Atocha train station
• Gran Vía
• Plaza Cibeles and Paseo del Prado
• Puerta del Sol area, Plaza Mayor and surrounding streets
• Retiro park
• the subway system

There has been a significant increase in stolen passports in the Barcelona region during the last few years.

In Barcelona, thieves are particularly active in the following areas:

• Barceloneta beach
• El-Prat airport and on the airport shuttle bus (the Aerobus)
• Güell park
• Las Ramblas, including in Internet cafés
• Passeig de Gràcia
• Plaça de Catalunya
• Plaça Reial and surrounding streets of the old city (Ciutat Vella
• Sagrada Família Basilica
• Sants train and bus station

Useful links

• Security advice while in Catalonia - Mossos d’Esquadra
• Tips to stay safe - Municipality of Barcelona

While in Spain:

• ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• carry a photocopy or digital copy of your passport identification page, driver’s licence, train or airline tickets and credit cards
• at the beach, bring only the essentials
• expect travel delays and additional expenses if your passport is stolen
• don’t leave luggage unattended at airport check-in or ticket counters, car rental desks or hotel lobbies
• avoid frequenting unlit areas

Violent crime

Violent crime is rare but does occur. Home burglaries happen in larger cities and coastal areas and sometimes affect homes or vacation rental apartments offered through online accommodation apps.

On the road

Thieves have been known to simulate or provoke road-related incidents, such as flat tires. When a motorist stops to help, the thieves steal the motorist’s car or belongings. The reverse scenario has also occurred, whereby a thief offers to help a motorist in distress and steals the motorist’s car or belongings.

In the event of a road-related incident, be extremely cautious about accepting help from anyone other than a uniformed officer from the National Police Corps or Civil Guard.

There is also a high threat of theft from rental and parked vehicles.

• Be particularly vigilant in service areas on coastal highways
• Use secure parking facilities
• Avoid leaving any luggage or valuables in the vehicle
• Always lock your doors and keep windows closed

Foreign Tourist Assistance Service

Several municipalities have dedicated police units for foreign tourists (SATE) and offer services in English and other languages.

You can also call the tourist hotline to file a police report with the assistance of a translator.

• Safety tips for tourists - Policía Nacional
• Foreign Tourist Assistance Service (SATE) in Madrid - Tourism Madrid
• Tourist Assistance Service in Barcelona (Ciutat Vella District) - Guàrdia Urbana de Barcelona
• Foreign Tourist Assistance Service (SATE) in Málaga - Tourism Málaga
• Hotline service to file a police report with a translator - Policía Nacional

There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities.

In Spain, attacks causing deaths and injuries have taken place. Further attacks in Spain cannot be ruled out. Further attacks elsewhere in Europe are likely.

Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

 Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Be particularly vigilant if attending sporting events and during religious holidays and other public celebrations, as terrorists have used such occasions to mount attacks.

The Spanish government maintains a public alert system on terrorism and communicates threat level changes online and through local media. The current threat level for Spain is level 4 (“high”) on a scale of 5.

Terrorism threat level  - Spanish Ministry of the Interior (in Spanish)

Internet scams

Unsolicited emails offering enticing business or financial opportunities are most likely fraudulent.

These emails may involve the following scenarios:

• prizes won in the Spanish lottery (el Gordo)
• inheritance
• a friend or family member who appears to be in distress abroad

Never send funds to an unknown individual. Don’t travel to Spain to obtain restitution after losing money to a scam.

Romance scams

If you’re travelling to Spain to meet someone you’ve otherwise only met online, you may be the victim of a scam. Be wary of attempts at fraud by persons who profess friendship or romantic interest over the internet.

Investment scams

If you plan to buy a property or make other investments in Spain, seek legal advice in Canada and Spain. Do so before making commitments. Related disputes could take time and be costly to resolve.

Credit card and ATM fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs.

When using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention if other people are handling your cards
• use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transaction on your account statements

Overseas fraud

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances, as the items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Demonstrations and strikes

Demonstrations and strikes occur regularly. They also take place sporadically in Catalonia, including in Barcelona, in response to political events. Violent clashes between demonstrators and police have taken place.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to traffic and public transportation disruptions, including access to roads, airports, and the railway and metro systems. Flight delays or cancellations, as well as disruptions at ports, are also possible.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations
• Be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Swimming and water activities

Coastal waters can be dangerous. Always obey warning flags at beaches, lakes and rivers.

The main warning flags used in Spain are:

• Green: calm waters, swimming is allowed
• Yellow: agitated waters, swimming with precautions is recommended
• Red: dangerous waters, swimming or entering the water is forbidden
• Black: contaminated waters, avoid swimming

In marine areas, coral, jellyfish and other ocean life found along reefs can poison, sting or cause infection if touched or stepped on.

• Ask local authorities about the presence of such species and whether they are dangerous
• Immediately seek medical assistance if you get hurt

In the fall and winter months, be cautious when walking along beaches close to the water’s edge as waves can be unpredictable in size and may come onto shore further than expected.

• Don’t visit beaches or coastal areas during periods of severe weather warnings
• Look out for signs warning of cliff erosion and falling rocks
• Don’t dive into unknown waters, as hidden rocks or shallow depths can cause serious injury or death
• Exercise caution and follow the advice of the local authorities

Water safety abroad

Mountain activities

If you intend to do mountaineering or skiing:

• never do so alone and always hire an experienced guide from a reputable company
• buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
• ensure that you’re adequately equipped and well informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary, including when you expect to be back
• know the symptoms of acute altitude sickness, which can be fatal
• obtain detailed information on trekking routes or ski slopes before setting out and do not venture off marked trails or slopes

Road safety

Road conditions and road safety can vary throughout the country. Some drivers are aggressive and drive at excessive speeds.

Travellers may experience delays crossing between Spain and Gibraltar due to increased border controls.

• Be sure you are prepared for lengthy delays
• Plan for an adequate supply of fuel, food, and water

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Spanish authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

• Schengen area

Spain is a Schengen area country. Canadian citizens do not need a visa for travel to countries within the Schengen area. However, visa-free travel only applies to stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Stays are cumulative and include visits to any Schengen area country.

If you plan to stay in the Schengen area for a longer period of time, you will need a visa. You must contact the high commission or embassy of the country or countries you are travelling to and obtain the appropriate visa(s) prior to travel.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the date you expect to leave the Schengen area.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 90 days in any 180-day period Business visa: not required Student visa: required

Other entry requirements

Customs officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

In this destination, rabies  may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. 

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife. 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

• In this country, risk of  dengue  is sporadic. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue fever.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Human cases of avian influenza have been reported in this destination. Avian influenza   is a viral infection that can spread quickly and easily among birds and in rare cases it can infect mammals, including people. The risk is low for most travellers.

Avoid contact with birds, including wild, farm, and backyard birds (alive or dead) and surfaces that may have bird droppings on them. Ensure all poultry dishes, including eggs and wild game, are properly cooked.

Travellers with a higher risk of exposure include those: 

• visiting live bird/animal markets or poultry farms
• working with poultry (such as chickens, turkeys, domestic ducks)
• hunting, de-feathering, field dressing and butchering wild birds and wild mammals
• working with wild birds for activities such as research, conservation, or rehabilitation
• working with wild mammals, especially those that eat wild birds (e.g., foxes)

All eligible people are encouraged to get the seasonal influenza shot, which will protect them against human influenza viruses. While the seasonal influenza shot does not prevent infection with avian influenza, it can reduce the chance of getting sick with human and avian influenza viruses at the same time.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Health care is excellent. Service is available throughout the country but may be limited in certain rural areas.

Private healthcare is also widely available. Upfront payment may be required.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

water_restrictions_in_catalonia

Water restrictions in Catalonia

On February 1, 2024, the Government of Catalonia declared a state of emergency and imposed water restrictions due to drought. The restrictions affect 229 municipalities, including Barcelona. They include daily use limits and prohibit certain high-use activities.

• Confirm if water restrictions apply in your location

Information on water restrictions – Government of Catalonia (in Catalan)

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and Spain are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Spain to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Spain authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

Identification

Local authorities may ask you to show ID at any time. You must carry an adequate ID, such as a passport, to show upon request. You could be detained until you can prove your identity.

Keep a photocopy or digital copy of your passport’s photo page in a safe place should your passport be lost or seized.

In Spain, foreign visitors must present a passport upon check-in at a hotel. Restaurants, hotels, shops and other such establishments also routinely request passports or other pieces of government-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s licence, to process credit card transactions.

• Don’t leave your passport or any other ID document with anyone
• Wait until they have taken the details or made a copy of it and have given the document back to you

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences or heavy fines.

In several autonomous regions and municipalities, including Madrid, Barcelona and the Balearic Islands, alcohol consumption in the street is prohibited. If you don’t comply, you could be fined.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Photography

It is illegal to photograph military installations.

Some municipalities, including Barcelona, have banned beachwear outside of local beaches, including on beachfront promenades.

If caught, you could face on-the-spot fines.

Counterfeit merchandise

It is illegal in certain municipalities to buy counterfeit merchandise from street vendors, such as sunglasses or purses.

Local authorities may impose heavy fines on tourists caught buying counterfeit merchandise.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in Spain.

If local authorities consider you a citizen of Spain, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Spain.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Spain, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Spanish court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Spain to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

You can drive in Spain with your valid Canadian driver’s licence and an international driving permit for up to 6 months. For stays longer than 6 months, you must obtain a local driver’s licence.

Vehicles must be equipped for emergency situations. You must carry the following items:

• 2 red warning triangles, of which one must be placed in front of the vehicle and one behind in case of accident or breakdown
• a reflective jacket, kept inside the car (not in the trunk), that you must wear when leaving a vehicle stranded or involved in a highway accident
• a spare tire and a repair kit
• a full set of spare light bulbs, plus the tools to change them
• snow chains if travelling in adverse winter conditions

You may be subject to on-the-spot fines if you fail to comply with these laws.

Emission zones

Certain cities have put in place low-emission or zero-emission zones (Zona de Bajas Emisiones [ZBE] and Area Central Cero Emisiones [ACCE]) to reduce air pollution. Access to these zones is restricted, and speed limits are lowered.

You may need to obtain a permit to prove that your vehicle responds to environmental standards.

• Driving in Spain - European Commission
• Obtaining a Spanish licence - General Traffic Directorate (in Spanish)
• More about the International Driving Permit

The currency of Spain is the euro (EUR).

If you are carrying €10,000 or more, or the equivalent in other currencies, you must make a declaration to customs when you enter or leave the European Union. It includes sums in:

• banknotes and coins
• bearer negotiable instruments such as cheques, travellers’ cheques, promissory notes and money orders
• bonds, shares
• gold coins with a gold content of at least 90 %
• gold bars, nuggets or clumps with a gold content of at least 99.5 %
• any other convertible asset

This does not apply if you are travelling within the European Union or in transit to a non-EU country.

EU cash controls - European Commission

Torrential rainfall and storms are common during the fall on the Mediterranean coast, particularly in the Valencian Community and the Balearic Islands.

Winter storms and heavy snowfall may also occur, particularly in northern and mountainous areas.

• Latest weather warnings - Spanish government’s meteorological agency

High temperatures create dry conditions, which can lead to large fires throughout Spain, particularly during summer. Fires can lead to railway and road closures, including major highways, and affect air traffic.

The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke and affect travellers with respiratory ailments.

In case of a major fire:

• avoid areas affected by active wildfires
• follow the instructions of local emergency services personnel, including any evacuation orders
• monitor local media sources for up-to-date information

Civil protection  - Spanish Ministry of the Interior (in Spanish)

Mountainous areas

The weather in mountainous areas can be unpredictable. If you plan a mountain or skiing holiday, stay informed of the latest weather and safety conditions.

Hazardous winter conditions, such as heavy snowfall, blizzards and freezing temperatures, may put pilgrims at risk on the French route of St. James Way (“Camino de Santiago”). As a result, between November 1 and March 31, the East access through Navarra via Lepoeder is closed.

Follow signage and take the West route (Luzaide/Valcarlos) during this period.

• Weather forecast in the Pyrenees - Pyrenees reference centre for mountain risk management (A Lurte) (in Spanish)
• Way of St James through Navarra - Tourism Navarra
• Way of St James through Galicia - Tourism Galicia

Local services

Dial 112 for emergency assistance.

A hotline service to file a police report with a translator is available from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays.

Dial 902 102 112

The service is not available on weekends and public holidays.

Hotline service to file a police report with a translator - Policía Nacional

Consular assistance

Spain, Andorra, and Canary Islands

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Spain, in Madrid, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

Fri 26 Apr 2024

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Can I travel to Spain? UK amber list rules, entry requirements and Foreign Office advice after travel update

The most popular holiday destination among brits is currently on the uk's amber list, and looks set to remain there.

Spain was the subject of much speculation ahead of the most recent travel review .

However, the most popular holiday destination among Brits is remained on the UK’s amber list . That means fully vaccinated people are able to visit without having to quarantine upon their return .

Just over 20,000 tested positive for Covid-19 on Tuesday 3 August, down from highs of over 30,000 last month. However, Spain’s seven-day infection rate remains high, at 328 per 100,000 people.

Following the review, Transport Secretary Grant Shapps refused to rule out destinations such as Spain being moved to the red list in future, but spoke encouragingly about summer holidays.

He told Sky News: “With coronavirus you can never say there is zero chance.

“But having said that, the levels of vaccination and what we now know about the virus and what our scientists have been able to work out in the last year means that people should be able to go away, enjoy their holidays without looking over their shoulders the whole time and as I say, the next set of changes are not for another three weeks.”

Amber list rules

Rules for fully vaccinated travellers, and under-18s

Since 19 July, people who have received both Covid-19 jabs in the UK, US and most European countries have been able enter the UK from amber list countries without having to quarantine. This also applies to under-18s.

People will need to have received their second jab at least 14 days before travelling to be exempt from quarantine.

Before travelling to the UK you must still provide evidence of a negative Covid test – either PCR or antigen – taken within three days before departure.

You must also take a PCR test on or before day two of your arrival back in the UK.

Rules for other travellers

Before travelling to the UK you must provide evidence of a negative Covid test – either PCR or antigen – taken within three days before departure.

If you are not fully vaccinated or under-18, you must quarantine for 10 days upon arriving in the UK.

You must also take a day two and day eight PCR test. You may take an additional test on day five, and can be released from isolation if it is negative. However, you must still take the day eight test.

Spain entry requirements

The Spanish Government requires all arrivals to Spain from the UK to present a pre-travel declaration form and one of the following:

• A negative PCR Covid-19 test, taken within 72 hours prior to arrival in Spain
• Proof of full vaccination – the vaccine pass in your NHS app or through the NHS website will work, as will a printed document

If you are travelling to the Canary or Balearic Islands from mainland Spain, you may be required to present a negative Covid test depending on the region you are travelling from.

You should refer to your travel operator and the local authorities in your final destination for guidance on domestic entry requirements.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) no longer advises against all but essential travel to Spain, meaning you should be able to book travel insurance for your trip.

PCR test advice

New government guidance is asking travellers to use PCR tests to travel from Spain to the UK, rather than cheaper antigen tests.

The advice is guidance and not law but it is likely to spark confusion over which tests need to be used for holidaymakers and airport staff policing the results.

Announcing the new rules, the Government said that the new advice was a “precaution against the increased prevalence of the virus and variants in the country”.

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said people “can’t ignore” the new PCR requirement. He told BBC Radio 4’s  Today  programme: “You can’t board the plane without one of these tests.

“We want to make sure that people can travel as safely as possible that we protect the domestic gains of people having gone through these lock downs for the best part of a year and a half.”

PCR tests are more expensive than antigen tests, costing around £100 each rather than around £40.

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Spain travel advice

Explore our complete guide to Spain with the latest travel advice for travellers and holidaymakers including official updates and local travel tips for Spain.

• Essential travel guide
• Weather & climate
• Travel health
• Covid live updates
• Travel features
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• Destinations

Spain travel guide - essential info

Below is a beginner's guide to Spain with essential travel facts such as dominant language spoken, typical flight time from the UK and the local currency. You can also check whether visas are required and what plug adapter you need to pack.

Why visit Spain?

Considering a holiday to the Spain? Here are some of the very good reasons it makes such a wonderful holiday destination be it for beaches or culture to ensure you get the most out of your 2024/2025 escape.

Spain tourist information

✝ = Typical flight time from the UK.

Recommended for Spain

Spain deals >>

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Spain weather

The Spain weather guide shows long term monthly averages for Madrid .

Spain destinations >>

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Destination Any destination Algarve Costa Blanca Costa del Sol Crete Croatia Cyprus Majorca Malta Tenerife Africa North Africa Morocco Formentera Ibiza Majorca Menorca Fuerteventura Gran Canaria Lanzarote Tenerife Europe Bulgaria Croatia Cyprus France Greece Italy Jersey Malta Montenegro Portugal Spain Turkey South of France Corfu Crete Halkidiki Kefalonia Kos Lefkas Lesbos Peloponnese Rhodes Santorini Skiathos Skopelos Zante Campania Italian Lakes Sardinia Sicily Tuscany Venetian Riviera Mediterranean Algarve Madeira Balearic Islands Canary Islands Costa Almeria Costa Blanca Costa Brava Costa del Sol Costa Dorada Antalya Coast Bodrum and Izmir Coast Dalaman and Marmaris Coast

Check the latest travel advice on visiting Spain from official government sources (in english) from around the world including entry requirements and travel restrictions.

• UK traveller advice for Spain - UK FCDO
• Irish traveller advice for Spain - Department of Foreign Affairs, Ireland
• Canadian travel advice for Spain - Government of Canada
• US travel advisories for Spain - US Department of State
• Safe travel advisories for Spain - Ministry of Foreign Affairs, New Zealand
• Smarter traveller advice for Spain - Department of Foreign Affairs, Australia

Learn more about the current safety and security risks from terrorism, natural disasters and more. Read about the local laws and customs to consider when travelling around Spain.

Note : UK FCDO - UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

FCDO travel advice

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Spain travel health

Find out more about staying safe when travelling to Spain with the latest guidance on required vaccinations and recommended medication to take with you.

• Vaccines & medicines for Spain - CDC
• Health & vaccinations for Spain - TravelHealthPro, NaTHNac
• How to stay safe & healthy in Spain - Fit for Travel, Public Health Scotland

Check out the general travel tips for staying safe and healthy in Spain, risks of preventable diseases and what to pack.

Note : CDC - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Spain covid live updates

Check the latest live updates on Covid-19 in Spain with the vaccination requirements, current available statistics and up-to-date travel advice from government agencies.

• Travellers' health for Spain - Ministry of Health, Spain
• Coronavirus timeline in Spain - Our World in Data
• Latest info on travel to Spain - Spanish Tourism Institute

Spain travel features

Do you want to learn more about Spain? Read our latest features covering travel tips and insider destination guides on where to go and what to do in Spain.

Read our frequently asked questions about travelling to Spain including the current entry restrictions, covid rules, driving side, electrical plugs used and much more.

Are there entry restrictions to Spain due to Covid-19?

Spain is open for tourism from the UK. There are no special entry requirements for Spain. Check out Ministry of Health, Spain for more information.

Do I need to quarantine in the UK if I travel from Spain?

You do not need to quarantine on arrival in the UK from Spain. The UK no longer requires a passenger locator form, Covid-19 test or proof of vaccination.

What is the flight time to Spain from the UK?

The flight time to Spain from the UK is typically 2 to 10 hours .

Flights to Spain

What is the time difference between Spain and the UK?

The time difference between Spain and the UK is UK time+0 to UK time+1 hours .

What is the main language spoken in Spain?

The main language spoken in Spain is Spanish . Learn a language for Spain with Rosetta Stone * , Babbel * and Mondly * .

What is the currency in Spain?

The currency in Spain is the Euro ( EUR ). Send money to Spain with TransferGo * , Wise.com * and XE Money Transfers * .

Which plugs are used in Spain?

Spain uses electrical plug type C (230 Volts) .

Which side of the road do they drive on in Spain?

They drive on the right side of the road in Spain. Find out more about driving in Spain with RAC * , International Drivers Association * and Halfords * .

Transport options for Spain

Travel advice by country

Country name All countries - summary Algarve Balearic Islands Barbados Canary Islands Croatia Cyprus Egypt Faroe Islands France Germany Greece Ireland Italy Jamaica Madeira Maldives Malta Portugal Spain Turkey UAE UK USA Algeria Angola Benin Botswana Burkina Faso Burundi Cameroon Cape Verde Central African Republic Chad Congo-Brazzaville Congo-Kinshasa Djibouti Egypt Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Ethiopia Gabon Gambia Ghana Guinea Guinea-Bissau Ivory Coast Kenya Lesotho Liberia Libya Malawi Mali Mauritania Morocco Mozambique Namibia Niger Nigeria Rwanda Sao Tome and Principe Senegal Sierra Leone Somalia South Africa South Sudan Sudan Swaziland Tanzania Togo Tunisia Uganda Western Sahara Zambia Zimbabwe Antarctica French Southern and Antarctic Lands South Georgia and South Sandwich Islands Afghanistan Armenia Azerbaijan Bahrain Bangladesh Bhutan Brunei Cambodia China East Timor Georgia Hong Kong India Indonesia Iran Iraq Israel Japan Jordan Kazakhstan Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Laos Lebanon Macau Malaysia Maldives Mongolia Myanmar Nepal North Korea Oman Pakistan Philippines Qatar Russia (Central Asia) Russia (Far East) Saudi Arabia Singapore South Korea Sri Lanka Syria Taiwan Tajikistan Thailand Turkmenistan UAE Uzbekistan Vietnam Yemen Anguilla Antigua Aruba Bahamas Barbados Bonaire British Virgin Islands Cayman Islands Cuba Curacao Dominica Dominican Republic Grenada Guadeloupe Haiti Jamaica Martinique Montserrat Puerto Rico Saba Sint Eustatius Sint Maarten St Barthelemy St Kitts and Nevis St Lucia St Martin St Vincent and the Grenadines Trinidad and Tobago Turks and Caicos Virgin Islands Belize Costa Rica El Salvador Guatemala Honduras Nicaragua Panama Albania Andorra Austria Belarus Belgium Bosnia and Herzegovina Bulgaria Croatia Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Estonia Faroe Islands Finland France Germany Gibraltar Greece Guernsey Hungary Iceland Ireland Isle of Man Italy Jan Mayen Jersey Kosovo Latvia Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Malta Moldova Monaco Montenegro Netherlands North Macedonia Norway Poland Portugal Romania Russia San Marino Serbia Slovakia Slovenia Spain Svalbard Sweden Switzerland Turkey UK Ukraine British Indian Ocean Territory Christmas Island Cocos (Keeling) Islands Comoros Madagascar Mauritius Mayotte Reunion Seychelles Bermuda Canada Greenland Mexico St Pierre and Miquelon USA American Samoa Australia Cook Islands Federated States of Micronesia Fiji French Polynesia Guam Kiribati Marshall Islands Midway Island Nauru New Caledonia New Zealand Niue Norfolk Island Northern Mariana Islands Palau Papua New Guinea Pitcairn Island Samoa Solomon Islands Tokelau Tonga Tuvalu Vanuatu Wake Island Wallis and Futuna Algarve Azores Madeira Argentina Bolivia Brazil Chile Colombia Ecuador Falkland Islands French Guiana Guyana Paraguay Peru Suriname Uruguay Venezuela Balearic Islands Canary Islands England Northern Ireland Scotland Wales Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut D.C. Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming

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Spain: post-Brexit passport requirements and the £97 per day rule

UK holidaymakers are unlikely to fall foul of the £97 a day rule when travelling to Spain this summer.

Non-EU citizens entering the country can be asked to provide evidence that they have enough money for the duration of their stay. However, it is not a new rule and tourists are very unlikely to be quizzed at all. 

British citizens are much more likely to be caught out by changes to passport validity rules post-Brexit. They could also be asked to show proof of a return ticket. 

It isn't the only issue that could catch you out. In some parts of Spain, the Canary Islands and Balearics, you can be fined for drinking or smoking in public places. 

Eventually, British travellers will also need a visa waiver, known as the Electronic Travel Information and Authorisation Scheme (ETIAS) to enter Spain - although the launch date for this scheme has been pushed back to mid-2025.

Here’s a summary of everything you need to know when visiting Spain this summer.

• Spain’s post-Brexit entry rules
• Do I need a visa to travel to Spain?
• Why you probably don’t need to worry about the €109 per day rule
• Local laws in Spain: alcohol limits and bikini bans

Get free travel advice and recommendations you can trust from the experts with our monthly Travel newsletter  

  What are the passport rules for Spain?

British passport-holders need to check if their passport meets the EU and Schengen area’s requirements for ‘third-country nationals’, which Brits are classed as since Brexit.

You can do this by checking if your passport’s ‘date of issue’ and ‘date of expiry’ satisfy two requirements: 

Date of issue - it must have been issued less than 10 years before your arrival date

Date of expiry - it must be valid for at least three months after the day you’re leaving Spain

These passport rules also apply to the Canary Islands, as well as every country in the EU and Schengen area apart from Ireland.

Some UK holidaymakers have been denied boarding because their passport was issued more than 10 years ago. This is because the Passport Office used to add extra months if you renewed your old passport early, so your current passport could be valid for more than 10 years.

You’ll also need to renew your passport if you’ve run out of blank pages because it will be stamped when you enter and exit Spain.

The Passport Office currently advises travellers to allow at least three weeks for their application to be processed - but at peak times waits can be much longer. Make sure to check your passport before you book your holiday.

Thinking of visiting Spain? Check with booking.com to easily compare and find accommodation deals.

  Visas for Spain - do I need one when travelling from the UK?

You don’t need a visa for short visits to Spain. British passport-holders are allowed to stay in the Schengen area for up to 90 out of 180 days. So you could stay in Spain for up to 90 days, or visit several countries in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days.

You will need a visa waiver to visit Spain and the Canary Islands, as well as every country in the Schengen zone from mid 2025. It’s expected to cost €7 (£6) and be valid for three years.

The EU’s ETIAS was due to be introduced this year, but has been postponed. It isn't the first time the launch has pushed back. The exact date hasn’t been announced.

The EU is also planning to replace passport-stamping with biometric checks in the Schengen Zone and the Canary Islands next year.

Read more about ETIAS on the official European Union website .

What are Spain’s entry requirements on return tickets and funds?

Now the UK isn’t in the European Union, you could be asked to prove you have a return or onward ticket and pre-booked accommodation - a hotel booking confirmation, or proof of address if you're visiting friends or staying in your own property. Few travellers are asked, but spot checks do take place. 

This entry requirement applies to all Schengen countries and the Canary Islands. It has been widely reported that you could also be asked to prove you have sufficient financial means for the duration of your trip - but this is very unlikely.

Spain defines ‘sufficient financial means’ as access to €113.40 (£96.80) - or the equivalent in another currency) per person per day. For a family of five, this equates to €567 per day or €7,938 for a two-week holiday in Spain.

In the unlikely event you are asked, you just need to show you can access these funds; you’re not required to spend that amount of money or present it all in cash on the spot. The funds can be in the form of cash, travellers’ cheques, debit and credit cards, or a combination of these. Bank cards need to be accompanied by a recent bank statement.

The Ministry of the Interior has confirmed that this rule isn’t being applied to tourists and nobody has been refused entry on this basis.

  Local laws in Spain: Bikini bans and alcohol limits

Spain has introduced local laws and restrictions on alcohol, smoking and wearing swimwear in public in recent years. Make sure you’re aware of these rules to avoid being fined.

Drinking and smoking in public in Spain

Some local authorities in Spain, including in Madrid, the Balearics and the Canaries, have banned drinking alcohol and smoking in public places with on-the-spot fines for anybody who doesn’t comply with the rules. These rules apply to some beaches as well. 

There’s a limit on the amount of alcohol you can buy or consume in an effort to clamp down on anti-social behaviour in several resorts in the Balearics - Magaluf and Palma on Mallorca, and parts of Ibiza. Tourists on all-inclusive deals are limited to six drinks a day, and two-for-one drinks, happy hours and pub crawls are banned.

Smoking is prohibited on most Spanish beaches, including all of the beaches in Barcelona. Those caught smoking where they’re not supposed to could be fined £25.

Where do you need to cover up in Spain?

It’s against the law to wear just a bikini or swimming trunks in the street in Barcelona, Malaga and Palma in Mallorca. Being bare-chested in the street has also been banned in some areas. You could be fined up to €300 (around £250) for not following the rules. 

This rule applies to other public settings too, such as restaurants, shops and bars. Always cover up when walking back from the beach or swimming pool to be on the safe side.

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Travel Advisory July 26, 2023

Spain - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in Spain due to  terrorism  and  civil unrest .

Country Summary:  Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Spain. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.

Demonstrations are common. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events.

Read the  country information page for additional information on travel in Spain.

If you decide to travel to Spain:

• Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and crowded public venues.
• Follow the instructions of local authorities.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Spain.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Embassy Messages

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Quick Facts

6 months recommended, 3 months beyond your date of departure is required

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None required for less than 90 days

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Embassy Madrid Calle Serrano, 75 28006 Madrid, Spain Telephone: (34) 91-587-2200 Emergency after-hours telephone: (34) 91-587-2200  Fax: (34) 91-587-2303 E-mail: [email protected]

U.S. Consulate General Barcelona Paseo Reina Elisenda de Montcada, 23 08034 Barcelona, Spain Telephone: (34) 93-280-2227 Emergency after-hours telephone: (34) 91-587-2200  Fax: (34) 93-280-6175 E-mail: [email protected]

U.S. Consular Agency Fuengirola (Málaga) Avenida Juan Gómez "Juanito", 8 Edificio Lucía 1º-C 29640 Fuengirola (Málaga), Spain Telephone: (34) 95-247-4891 Fax: (34) 95-246-5189 E-mail: [email protected]

U.S. Consular Agency Las Palmas Edificio Arca Calle Los Martinez de Escobar 3, Oficina 7 35007 Las Palmas, Gran Canaria, Spain Telephone: (34) 92-827-1259 Fax: (34) 92-822-5863 E-mail:   [email protected]

U.S. Consular Agency Palma de Mallorca Edificio Reina Constanza Porto Pi, 8, 9-D 07015 Palma, Islas Baleares, Spain Telephone: (34) 97-140-3707  Fax: (34) 97-140-3971 E-mail: [email protected]

U.S. Consular Agency Seville Plaza Nueva 8-8 duplicado 2nd Floor, Office E-2 No.4 41101 Sevilla, Spain Telephone: (34) 95-421-8751 Fax: (34) 95-422-0791 E-mail:   [email protected]

U.S. Consular Agency Valencia Doctor Romagosa 1, 2-J 46002 Valencia, Spain Telephone: (34) 96-351-6973 Fax: (34) 96-352-9565 E-mail:   [email protected]

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Spain for information on U.S.-Spain relations.  

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

U.S. citizens traveling to Spain are not subject to any COVID-19 entry restrictions.

Spain is a party to the  Schengen Agreement . This means that U.S. citizens may enter Spain for up to 90 days for tourism or business without a visa. Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the period of stay. You must have sufficient funds and a return airline ticket. Visit the  Embassy of Spain  website for the most current visa information.

Traveling Through Europe : If you are planning to visit, transit and/or travel through European countries, you should be familiar with the requirements of the Schengen Agreement. 

• Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the period of stay. If you plan on transiting a Schengen country, review our U.S. Travelers in Europe page .    
• You will need sufficient proof of funds and a return plane ticket .  
• For additional information about visas for the Schengen area, see the Schengen Visa page.

Students and athletes:  Students, prospective students, and athletes should visit the  Embassy of Spain  website for additional information on entry requirements. You should not travel to Spain as a student or for an athletic/study program without the appropriate Spanish visa. U.S. citizen students and athletes have been denied entry and held in immigration detention at Spanish airports awaiting return flights to the United States because they lacked the appropriate visa. If your coach or sponsoring program says that you do not require a visa to study, play for a sports team, or participate in a sports training program in Spain, you should confirm this information with the nearest Spanish consulate in the United States before you travel.

U.S. citizen minors living in Spain:  Spanish law mandates that all Spanish minors traveling internationally without their parents or legal guardians must have written notarized permission from a parent or guardian. The law also applies to foreign, minor residents if their country of nationality also requires parental permission. While U.S. law does not require minors traveling without a parent/guardian to have the parents’/guardians’ written permission, Spanish authorities and airlines have occasionally misinterpreted the law and stopped U.S. citizens minors from departing the country. Therefore, parents/legal guardians should consider preparing a notarized, written permission for their U.S. citizen minor children to travel abroad unaccompanied or with a third party.

HIV/AIDS restrictions: The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Spain.  

Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction , and customs regulations on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism:  Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on encouraging or conducting attacks worldwide, including within Europe. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to target crowds more effectively. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as: 

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists 
• Places of worship 
• Schools 
• Parks 
• Shopping malls and markets 
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)  

Spain’s open borders with its Western European neighbors allow the possibility for terrorists to enter and exit the country anonymously. Additionally, Spain’s enclaves in Melilla and Ceuta on the North African coast allow for entry into Spain from the African continent. Spain has taken robust actions to guard against terrorist attacks, including arrests of suspected extremists allegedly involved in terrorist plots. Credible information indicates terrorist groups continue to plot potential attacks in Europe, including Spain.

For more information, see our Terrorism page.  

Crime:  Pickpocketing and other minor crimes, such as theft, are very common in Spain including instances where the victim is purposefully distracted to facilitate the theft. Street crimes against U.S. citizens usually occur in  tourist areas, including airports, train stations, and both urban and beach destinations .

Violent crimes, including robberies, have also been reported. Some instances have required the victim to seek medical attention. Car break-ins are also frequent in Spain.

Use common sense, awareness and the same personal security measures you would normally use in any large city or tourist destination.

Keep track of your passport at all times, including on flights and other modes of transportation. There have been reports of passports being stolen on planes en route to Spain. Do not leave bags unattended. Keep them in sight and avoid placing passports, cash, cell phones, or other valuables in the outer pockets of backpacks or purses on tables or floors, grounds in public places. Do not leave bags slung over the backs of chairs, on hotel or store counters, on top of your suitcase or travel bag, or out of your physical control in hotel lobbies, car rental locations, train stations, restaurants, and other public places. Avoid carrying your passport unless needed for travel, especially in tourist areas. Instead, carry a photocopy or photo of your passport’s biographical information page and consider leaving your passport in a secure location, such as a hotel safe. Your passport will be required to check in into any hotel in Spain and may be required for trains or tourist sites.

Sexual Assault:  The U.S. Mission in Spain has received numerous reports of sexual assaults affecting U.S. citizens, especially younger travelers, students, and exchange teachers.

Navigating the Spanish criminal justice system after surviving a sexual assault has been difficult for many U.S. citizen victims, who report feeling judged and re-victimized throughout the very lengthy process.

Although it is not required, many U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault in Spain have found it helpful to hire a local attorney to be their advocate and defend their rights during any judicial process or use the help of the local Office of Victim’s Assistance. Information about the local victim’s assistance program is given out at the police station when the report is filed.

There have been numerous reports alleging sexual assaults against U.S. citizen students by Manuel Blanco Vela, a representative of a tour operator based in Seville, Spain. Conduct research online to determine who owns and operates tour companies to make informed choices.

Many sexual assaults occur at night or during the early morning hours. In most cases, assailants take advantage of alcohol or drugs to make victims more vulnerable.

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence should call the toll-free emergency number in Spain, 016, for assistance, and the U.S. Embassy in Madrid at (34) 91-587-2200 or U.S. Consulate General Barcelona at (+34) 93-280-2227. Note that the local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.

Victims of Crime:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence, sexual assault or other violent crimes are encouraged to report crimes to the local emergency services at 112 and contact the U.S. Embassy, Consulate, or consular agency for assistance . Note that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care  
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police 
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent 
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion 
• Provide a list of local attorneys  
• Provide information on  victim’s compensation programs in the United States
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution 
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home 
• Replace a stolen or lost passport 

Demonstrations  occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. 

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable, avoid areas around protests  and demonstrations .  
• Past demonstrations have turned violent.   
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories. 

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information.

Financial scams are prevalent in Spain. Beware of anyone asking for money, particularly people who establish a “romantic” relationship online or anyone who claims the Spanish authorities are asking them for money. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited emails and letters. Scammers almost always pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help. Common scams include:   

• People claiming to be U.S. military personnel
• Romance/Online dating 
• Money transfers 
• Grandparent/Relative targeting 
• Free Trip/Luggage 
• Lotteries 
• Inheritance notices 
• Work permits/Job offers 

Tourism: The tourism industry is generally regulated, and rules [with regards to best practices and safety inspections] are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage, and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities prior to practicing or operating a business. 

Furthermore, some violations of laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking illegal drugs in Spain are severe and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.

Most cities in Spain have banned the consumption of alcohol in the street, other than in registered street cafes and bars. You could be arrested or fined if you break the law.

Local police, sometimes dressed in plain clothes, can require you to produce identification to establish your identity upon request and detain you for further questioning. Carry a photocopy of your passport with you as proof of your identity. If you are stopped by someone who claims to be a plainclothes police officer, ask to see their law enforcement identification.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police to notify the U.S. Embassy Madrid or U.S. Consulate General Barcelona immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also have to pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Department of Justice website for more information. 

Faith-Based Travelers:  See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTQI+ Travelers:  There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTQI+ events in Spain. 

See our LGBTQI+ Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.  

Travelers with Disabilities: The law in Spain prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual or mental disabilities, and the law is enforced. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is as prevalent as in the United States. In general, public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure are accessible. Taxis that can accommodate wheelchairs are available, but usually must be booked in advance.

In historic areas and older areas, sidewalks can be narrow and have uneven surfaces. Take this into account when planning your visit.  There may be differences in small towns and villages, where accessibility may be more limited.

Rental, repair, replacement parts for aids/equipment/devices, or service providers, such as sign language interpreters or personal assistants are widely available in Spain.

Students:  Follow the tips below and exercise caution and good judgment to make your study-abroad experience a positive and safe one. If you are coming to Spain to participate in a sports program, please check with the  Embassy of Spain  that you have the correct visa.

Do your research before contracting a tour operator or other service provider, including coaches and organizers of sports camps, schools, and training centers.

Exercise caution when agreeing to an internship or to serve as a recruiter for a specific organization or company. Most arrests, accidents, and violent crimes U.S. citizens suffer in Spain involve excessive alcohol. Drink in moderation and stay in a group of friends when in clubs, bars, or traveling.

See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers : The U.S. Mission in Spain has received numerous reports of sexual assaults affecting U.S. citizens, especially younger travelers, students, and exchange teachers. Please see more information under Safety and Security.  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

Good medical care is available in Spain. However, regulations regarding medications vary from those in the United States. Spanish regulations do not permit the international shipment of medication . Do not ship medication from the United States to Spain . Spanish customs authorities will reject and return to the shipper medication mailed from the United States. This may cause a significant delay in receiving your medications. The U.S. Embassy cannot help you retrieve medications stopped by Spanish customs.

Medications requiring prescriptions in the United States also require a local doctor’s prescription in Spain. In some instances, a medicine prescribed in the United States will not have a local equivalent. It is important that travelers research this on the  European Agency for Medication  website prior to travel.

For emergency services in Spain, dial 112. You may ask for an English-speaking attendant.

Ambulance services are widely available. 

We do not pay medical bills . Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance. Medical care is not free in Spain. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility. Lack of payment may bar future travel to Spain.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See  our webpage  for more information on insurance overseas. Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas. We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation. 

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the embassy to ensure the medication is legal in Spain. 

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)  

Air Quality:  Visit  AirNow Department of State  for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

The U.S. Embassy maintains  a list of doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic. 

Health facilities in general:

• Adequate health facilities are available throughout the country. Private hospitals usually require advance payment or proof of adequate insurance or funds before admitting a patient.  Medical staff may speak little or no English. Patients may be asked to bear costs for transfer to or between hospitals. 
• Patients have to pay their medical treatment in public hospitals.

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery:

• U.S. citizens have suffered serious complications or died during or after having cosmetic or other elective surgery.
• Medical tourism is a rapidly growing industry. People seeking health care overseas should understand that medical systems operate differently from those in the United States and are not subject to the same rules and regulations. Anyone interested in traveling for medical purposes should consult with their local physician before traveling and visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information on Medical Tourism.

Pharmaceuticals: U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit the  U.S. Customs and Border Protection  and the  Food and Drug Administration  websites for more information.

Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy: If you are considering traveling to Spain to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please see our  ART and Surrogacy Abroad page . 

Surrogacy is illegal in Spain and subject to complex local regulation. 

Adventure Travel: Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about  Adventure Travel .

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety : Road conditions in Spain can differ significantly from those in the United States. Drivers and pedestrians should exercise increased caution as traffic in Madrid and Barcelona is often faster-paced than in the United States and can be unnerving because of unfamiliar signs and traffic lights and different driving habits, including motorbikes weaving between traffic lanes.

Obey the traffic light located at your stop line, as there are separate traffic lights for each side of the intersection. Be alert when driving at night in urban areas; you may encounter drivers or pedestrians under the influence of alcohol.

Night driving in isolated rural areas can be dangerous because of farm animals and poorly marked roads.

Rural traffic is generally heavier in July and August as well as during the Christmas and Easter seasons.

Emergency services, including roadside assistance, are plentiful, competent, and can be easily accessed by dialing 112 from any phone.

Traffic Laws: You must obtain an International Driving Permit prior to your arrival if you plan to drive in Spain. The permits are only valid for one year.

It is illegal to rent a vehicle if you don’t have an International Driving Permit. Your rental car may be impounded, and you will be required to pay a fine if stopped by the police.

It is against the law to use a mobile phone without a hands-free device while driving. There is a €300 fine for violating this regulation, and you may also lose your license.

All drivers and passengers are required to buckle up (even in taxis and in the backseat) and wear a reflective vest if they need to stop on the roadside. A reflective triangle warning sign is also mandatory if you stop on the roadside.

You must have liability insurance to operate any car or motorcycle.

If you are stopped by the Spanish National Police or the Guardia Civil, they may levy fines on the spot and issue a receipt for payment. This ensures that foreigners pay their fines while still in Spain.

Public Transportation:  Public transportation in large Spanish cities is generally excellent.

Only use clearly identified cabs, ensure that taxi drivers always switch on the meter (except for fixed-fare trips originating to and from the Madrid airport), and ask for a receipt.

Private transportation companies (such as Uberor Cabify) are often used in Madrid and Barcelona but check private transportation websites for operating status before arrival.

Official taxis to and from the Madrid airport to the city center charge a €30 flat rate.  Official taxis to and from the Barcelona airport to the cruise ship terminal charge a €39 flat rate.

Rail service is comfortable and reliable but varies in quality and speed. Intercity buses are usually comfortable and inexpensive.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information. 

Aviation Safety Oversight:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of Spain’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Spain’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page . 

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to Spain should also check for  U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the   U.S. Coast Guard homeport website  and the  NGA broadcast warnings .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Spain . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

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After Your Trip

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Consider hepatitis A vaccination for most travelers. It is recommended for travelers who will be doing higher risk activities, such as visiting smaller cities, villages, or rural areas where a traveler might get infected through food or water. It is recommended for travelers who plan on eating street food.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Spain. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Spain.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Spain is free of dog rabies. However, rabies may still be present in wildlife species, particularly bats. CDC recommends rabies vaccination before travel only for people working directly with wildlife. These people may include veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers working with specimens from mammalian species.

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites.

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite
• Avoid Bug Bites

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Spain, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the  Department of State Country Information Pages  for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Although Spain is an industrialized country, bug bites here can still spread diseases. Just as you would in the United States, try to avoid bug bites while spending time outside or in wooded areas.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Consider using permethrin-treated clothing and gear if spending a lot of time outside. Do not use permethrin directly on skin.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Spain include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip:

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in the heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if you are driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately.  Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance for things your regular insurance will not cover.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medicines you take.
• Bring copies of your prescriptions for medicine and for eye glasses and contact lenses.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Spain’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Make sure there are seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Spain, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Spain for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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Spain travel advice 2024: Foreign Office updates guidance for holidaymakers - full list of updated passport, Covid and local rules

The Foreign Office has updated its Spain travel guidance as new rules have been introduced

The UK Foreign Office has recently updated its advice for people travelling to Spain after the country has reintroduced rules. It comes as many people will be thinking of booking a holiday to the country - one of the most popular holiday locations.

The Spanish government has reintroduced the mandatory wearing of face masks in hospitals and healthcare centres across the country . The update says: "Due to an increase in respiratory infections such as flu and Covid, you may be required to wear a face mask when using healthcare facilities such as doctors surgeries, hospitals or pharmacies. 

“Specific rules on the use of face masks may vary by region. You should refer to the advice of local authorities in your destination and ensure you are aware of the specific measures in place on how best to protect yourself and others."

Other rules are also in place that travellers should be aware of. The rules apply to all international visitors. Listed below are all the rules you need to know before heading to Spain this year.

Passport rules

If you're booking a holiday to Spain this year, you'll need to make sure your passport is valid before you fly. Particular attention needs to be paid to two dates on the photo page. 

The entry rules have changed since Brexit and British travellers now need to hold a passport that is valid for at least three months after the day you plan to leave. As well as checking the expiry date, holidaymakers must ensure their passport was issued no more than ten years before the date they will enter the country. Anyone with a passport older than ten years may find they're denied boarding at the airport.

For visas, UK residents can travel to countries in the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. This applies if you travel as a tourist, plan to visit family or friends, attend business meetings, cultural or sports events, or are making a trip for short-term studies or training.

If you enter or exit the Schengen area through Spain as a visitor make sure your passport is stamped, as border guards will check this to ensure travellers are complying with the 90-day rule. You will need to renew your passport if you have run out of blank pages because it should be stamped when you enter and exit the area.

Covid rules

Spain has now reintroduced face mask rules in certain settings but there has been no suggestion that this will be rolled out to other areas such as hotels or shops and restaurants. Covid-19 travel restrictions brought into effect during the pandemic have now been lifted and there are no Covid testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering the country.

Local laws 

There are a number of local laws in Spain that holidaymakers are expected to follow, including rules relating to drinking alcohol in public, the wearing of swimwear in certain areas and smoking. Beaches in Spain are maintained by their individual municipalities, meaning that there can be local bylaws that differ depending on the area you visit. 

In some parts of Spain including Benidorm it is against the rules to be in the street wearing only a bikini or swimming shorts/trunks. Several regions have also created smoke-free beaches and zones including Galicia and Murcia. If you're caught smoking on any of the beaches in Barcelona, you might be fined 30 euros. 

Some local councils only allow smoking, vaping and drinking alcohol in designated areas. Drinking alcohol on the beach in Benidorm could result in a fine of 750 euros.

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Latest update

Exercise normal safety precautions in Spain.

Spain (PDF 351.93 KB)

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Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies, advice levels.

Exercise normal safety precautions  in Spain.

• Terror attacks have occurred. Authorities have stopped some attacks. The national terrorism alert for Spain is 'high'. Always be aware of possible threats. Take official warnings seriously.
• Demonstrations and strikes can occur and disrupt transport. Sometimes, protesters clash with police. Avoid unrest.
• Watch out for bag snatching, pickpocketing and theft from cars in large cities. Petty crime is a serious problem in Barcelona. Take care at tourist spots, beaches and on transport.
• Taking part in the Running of the Bulls in Pamplona is dangerous. Check your travel insurance covers you.
• Spain experiences earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, severe storms and forest fires. Monitor local media for updates.

Full travel advice:  Safety

Health risks are similar to those in Australia.

• The standard of medical facilities is high.

Full travel advice:  Health

• Always carry personal ID. You should carry a copy of your Australian Passport for ID, either as a hardcopy or as a photo on your phone. Police can detain you until they can confirm your identity.
• Don't photograph military sites.
• Spain doesn't recognise dual nationality. Always travel on your Australian passport.

Full travel advice:  Local laws

• Spain is a part of the  Schengen area , along with many other European countries. This allows you to enter without a visa in some cases.
• You'll need a visa if you're travelling for a purpose other than tourism. If you plan to stay longer than 90 days, please contact the Spanish Embassy or Consulates in Australia before travelling to Spain.

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  details what we can and can't do to help you overseas.
• For consular help, contact the  Australian Embassy  in Madrid or the  consulate in Barcelona .
• Stay up to date with local information and follow the Embassy's social media accounts.

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Terrorist attacks in Spain are likely, and attacks can occur at any time

The national terrorism alert level for Spain is 'high'.

In recent years, terrorists have staged attacks in Spain and other European cities. Targets have included:

• public transport
• transport hubs
• places of worship
• sporting venues
• public places popular with tourists

Spain has increased security in public places, such as:

• shopping areas
• tourist sites
• major events that attract large crowds

Security services have stopped some planned attacks.

To reduce your risk, you should:

• be aware of possible threats when planning activities
• be alert in public places known to be possible terrorist targets
• monitor the media for updates
• report anything suspicious to the police 
• follow official warnings 
• follow the advice of local authorities

If there's an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe. Avoid the affected area in case of secondary attacks.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

More information:

Civil unrest and political tension

Demonstrations occur regularly throughout Spain.

Demonstrations and strikes can disrupt traffic and transport, including air, rail and other public services.

Some demonstrations held close to tourist areas in large cities have ended in clashes with police and resulted in injuries.

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

To reduce risks:

• avoid protests and demonstrations, and exercise caution if you're caught up in large gatherings/protests
• monitor local media for possible strikes and unrest
• avoid affected areas

In the event of a protest or demonstration, contact your travel agent or tour operator for information on your transport bookings. Be ready to change your plans.

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Petty crime

Petty crime is common in large cities. It's a serious problem in Barcelona, especially on public transport and tourist areas.

Petty crime includes:

• bag snatching
• pickpocketing
• theft from cars

Thieves are very active during the peak summer tourist season. They target:

• tourist attractions
• public transport, railway stations and cruise terminals
• airports, including airside, after passing through airport security
• restaurants and cafes
• hotel foyers
• car parking areas or car hire companies

Take care when placing bags on chairs or the ground in restaurants and outdoor cafes.

Thieves often work in gangs. While you're distracted, another thief steals your belongings. Thieves try to distract you by:

• asking for help or directions
• deliberately spilling something on you

Violent theft is less common but may also occur. 

To protect yourself from petty crime:

• take care of your personal belongings, especially in crowds
• leave your passport and other valuables in a safe location
• avoid walking in quiet, poorly lit streets
• monitor local sources for information about possible safety or security risks

Keep your passport and other ID separate. We recommend you carry a copy of your passport for ID, either as a hard copy or as a photo on your phone.

Road crime occurs throughout Spain.

Take care driving from Marseille in France to Valencia in Spain along the Mediterranean coast. Cars with foreign number plates are often targets.

Thieves working in pairs may convince you to stop because of a 'problem' with your vehicle, then offer to help with a flat or slashed tyre. While one helps, the other steals your belongings.

Never leave your luggage unattended, even inside your vehicle. Keep luggage and personal belongings out of sight.

To stay safe when on the road:

• never leave valuables in your vehicle 
• be wary of offers of help
• always keep car doors locked, even when driving
• use secure parking facilities when you can, especially overnight
• don't leave your vehicle unattended for long periods

Thieves also break into caravans and motor homes, particularly in public parking areas.

Credit card fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud can occur.

Avoid using ATMs that open onto the street, especially at night. Use ATMs in banks, shops, and shopping centres.

Drink spiking

Cases of drink spiking, followed by theft and  sexual assault , are reported.

To protect yourself from crime:

• stick with people you trust in bars and nightclubs
• never accept food or drinks from strangers
• don't leave your food or drink unattended
•   Partying safely

Gender violence

Spanish authorities have various emergency numbers for victims of gender violence. 

• Call 112 for 24-hour assistance from any of the emergency services in Spain. English-speaking staff are available.
• Call 016 (Whatsapp 600 000 016 or email  [email protected] ). This is a 24 hours a day, 365 days a year helpline for victims of gender violence. It is accessible for people with hearing difficulties and is available in 53 languages.

More Information:

• Sexual assault

Scams  are common.

Be aware of the latest scams. Don't become a victim.

Some complex scam operations are based in Spain. Inheritance scams are the most common.

Inheritance scams involve receiving an email from someone claiming to be a lawyer. They tell you an unknown Spanish relative has died and left you money.

If you've been a victim of a scam, don't travel to Spain. Seek legal advice.

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:  

• Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Climate and natural disasters

Spain experiences  natural disasters  and  severe weather .

If there's a natural disaster, follow the advice of local authorities.

Earthquakes

Spain experiences  earthquakes , but major quakes are rare.

Volcanic eruptions occurred in 2021 on La Palma in the Canary Islands. There's seismic activity on the Canary Island of El Hierro. The risk level set by local authorities is Green, which is level 1 of 3.

• Canary Islands Government

Severe weather

Sometimes, Spain experiences extreme storms, especially along the northern coast and islands.

Heavy snow in winter (December to February) can affect northern areas.

Forest fires

Forest fires  can occur from May to September. The risk is higher in rural areas.

Strict fines apply for any actions that could start a fire. If camping, ask local authorities for advice on fire danger and fire restrictions.

If there's a forest fire:

• follow the advice of local authorities, including evacuation orders
• keep in contact with family and friends

Adventure travel

Running of the bulls.

Taking part in the Running of the Bulls is dangerous. Every year, people are badly injured and sometimes killed.

People are also killed or badly injured jumping from fountains during the festivities in Pamplona.

Ensure you have travel insurance and that your policy covers you for planned activities. Don't take unnecessary risks. 

Your travel insurance may not cover you if:

• you take part in the Running of the Bulls
• jump from fountains
• take other risks

Medicare doesn't cover you if you're in Spain.

Swimming safety

Every year, several people drown in the sea and in swimming pools in Spain.

Some beaches, especially around Spanish islands, may have strong undercurrents. 

Swim at supervised beaches and follow the flag system that warns against dangerous swimming conditions. 

If you plan to spend time in or on the water:

• regularly check weather reports
• take warnings seriously
• check media and local sources for information about potential dangers
• speak to your travel provider about safety equipment and weather conditions before continuing with planned activities
• if possible, take a friend or family member with you when you undertake swimming or water activities
• ensure you have travel insurance and that your policy covers you for planned activities

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need.

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Not all medications available over the counter or by prescription in Australia are available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Spain. Contact the Spanish Embassy or Consulate in Australia before travelling to Spain. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

You can't mail or courier medication from Australia to Spain.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

Contact DFAT if you need medical documents  authenticated .

Health risks

Monitor the media and other sources for new health risks.

Follow the advice of Spain's Ministry of Health

Medical care

The standard of medical facilities in Spain is similar to those in Australia.

Most doctors don't speak English. A list of English-speaking doctors and medical facilities can be found on the  Australian Embassy  website. 

There's no shared healthcare agreement between Australia and Spain. 

Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

• Arrested or jailed

Penalties for drug offences include heavy fines and prison time.

• Carrying or using drugs

Always carry personal ID. This may include:

• your original driver's licence
• a copy of your passport, either in hardcopy or as a photo on your phone

Police may ask to see ID. They can detain you until they can confirm your identity. Carry a copy of your Australian passport as a hard copy or a photo on your phone.

Don't photograph military installations.

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

Spain doesn't recognise dual nationality.

If you're a dual citizen, this limits the  consular services  we can give if you're arrested or detained.

Always travel on your  Australian passport .

• Dual nationals

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact your airline or your nearest  Embassy or Consulate of Spain  for details about the latest visa and entry requirements. 

Spain is a part of the  Schengen Area , along with many other European countries. This allows you to enter without a visa in some cases. 

You'll need a visa if:

• you're travelling for a purpose other than tourism
• you plan to stay longer than 90 days

Ensure you get a legible entry stamp in your passport when you first enter the Schengen Area.

Some airlines may want to see proof of entry in the Schengen Area or to check you haven't overstayed the 90-day period. 

Carry copies of your passport in hard copy or as a photo on your phone in case authorities stop you. See  Local laws

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian Embassy or Consulate .

Passport with 'X' gender identifier 

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing an 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

• LGBTI travellers  

The currency of Spain is the Euro (€).

If you're travelling to or from any non-European Union (EU) country, declare funds of 10,000 Euro or more, including the equivalent in another currency. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

If you fail to declare currency or give wrong information, you'll be fined. You don't need to declare funds if you're travelling to or from another EU country.

Local travel

C arry your passport when crossing borders, even within the Schengen Area.

To avoid delays:

• monitor the local media for border conditions
• ask your transport provider for updates

Tourist information

Some areas of Spain are popular party destinations. See  Safety

If you're travelling to Morocco, read our  travel advice for Morocco . 

Driving permit

To drive a vehicle, you'll need both:

• a current Australian driver's licence
• a valid international driving permit (IDP). Contact the Australia Automobile Association on  www.aaa.asn.au  for further information.

If you drive without an IDP, you may be fined and your car impounded.

Road travel 

Be cautious when you drive or travel as a passenger. Keep your doors locked, even when moving. Lock your vehicle when you leave it.

Driving in urban areas can be dangerous due to:

• traffic congestion
• aggressive driving
• excessive speeding

Check your vehicle has 2 red warning triangles and a reflective jacket. You must use these in an accident or breakdown.

You can be fined if your vehicle doesn't have these items.

If you hire a vehicle, get safety equipment. Ask the rental company about local traffic rules.

When pollution levels are high in Madrid, temporary car-use restrictions may apply.

To contact the English-speaking 'Línea Madrid' citizen information and support line:

• call 010 from Madrid
• call (+34) 915 298 210 from outside Madrid

In addition to the general traffic regulations, there are specific regulations regarding the use of electric scooters.

• Driving or riding

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  Spain's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

•   Air travel

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Emergency phone numbers

For non-emergency criminal issues, contact the local police.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

The Australian Government has two offices in Spain:

• an Embassy in Madrid
• a Consulate in Barcelona

The Embassy provides the full consular services as described in the  Consular Services Charter .

The Consulate provides limited consular assistance to Australians in Barcelona.

Australian Embassy, Madrid

Level 24, Torre Emperador Castellana Building Paseo de la Castellana, 259D 28046 Madrid, Spain Phone: (+34) 91 353 6600 Email: [email protected] Website:  spain.embassy.gov.au Facebook:  Embajada de Australia en España, Andorra y Guinea Ecuatorial X:  @AusEmbEsp

Australian Consulate, Barcelona

Avenida Diagonal, 482, Fifth Floor  08006 Barcelona, Spain Phone/Fax: (+34) 93 715 5866 Email:  [email protected]

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary changes.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

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The pain in Spain: Where are Brits not so welcome this summer?

• Thursday 25 April 2024 at 12:14pm

Tourists are facing a backlash from residents in Tenerife as islanders say they are struggling to cope with the influx of visitors, ITV News Europe Editor James Mates reports

Spain is one of the most popular destinations for British tourists, but the country is feeling the backlash of the cheap flights and sunny climes as large numbers of visitors are causing big problems.

A number of provinces have taken matters into their own hands and are providing guidance - and in some case strict rules - for tourists visiting over the summer, as they try and tackle overcrowding and the problems that come with it.

Tourism represents nearly 12% of Spain’s economy but there has been growing pressure from locals for governments to put measures in place to reduce the number of visitors.

So which parts of Spain might not be so keen for Brits to descend this summer?

Canary Islands

Protestors in Tenerife started a hunger strike on April 12 as part of a wider campaign demanding the Canary Islands government tackle the effects of excess tourism in the region.

Hundreds of people linked arms to form a human chain to demonstrate against the building of an additional hotel and beach resort, as well as future projects aimed at attracting more tourists. The hunger strike was still underway on Wednesday at the time of writing.

The wider movement is called Canarias Se Agota, which means 'The Canaries Have Had Enough'.

In an Instagram post the organisation said the Canary Islands are "exhausted" because of the "excessive tourism" and the "lack of attention to the basic needs of the population".

Last year the then-mayor of Barcelona described tourism as a "great challenge" for the city, and suggested there needed to be a way to limit the number of people pouring in during holiday season.

Ada Colau limited the number of hotel beds in the city during her tenure, highlighting that the city needs homes so there is space for residents to live in the busy centre.

Her successor, Jaume Collboni, banned cruise ships from docking at the Muelle Barcelona Norte and the World Trade Centre docks, a mile away from the Gothic quarter, in October.

Now cruises must dock at the Moll d’Adossat pier, which is a 30-minute bus ride from the historic centre.

Meanwhile one neighbourhood went as far as to get a local bus route removed from Google and Apple Maps to discourage tourists from using it as it was often too busy for residents to fit onboard.

“We laughed at the idea at first,” a local activist, César Sánchez, told the Guardian. “But we’re amazed that the measure has been so effective.”

Wider Catalonia region

Barcelona is the largest city in the Catalonia region, but authorities for the entire area are considering imposing water restrictions on tourists if domestic consumption does not decrease.

The Catalan government is considering a restriction of 100 litres of water per day per tourist for hotels for three months as it looks to tackle drought in the area.

According to Barcelona’s hotel guild, the average tourist to Barcelona in 2022 used some 163 litres per day, while the figure rose to over 240 litres for luxury hotels.

The limits for tourists would not include the water used to fill swimming pools.

Majorca has introduced a series of new rules over the last couple of years that aren't explicitly preventing tourists from enjoying the island, but do seek to weed out "drunken tourism".

A number of restaurants banned shirtless, costumed or football-shirt-wearing travellers, according to Juan Miguel Ferrer, the chief executive of Palma Beach.

Swimwear, trunks and novelty accessories bought from roadside vendors - such as gold chains - are also said to be banned.

"Since May 10, we’ve been suffering the arrival of large groups of tourists who are only looking to get drunk in the streets, or on the seafront or even on the beach,” Mr Ferrer said in 2022.

“You’re not going to come here in beach clothes or come straight from drinking in the streets."

Alicante introduced new noise-related restrictions in 2023 in response to influxes of tourists causing disruption for locals.

Rules had originally been put in place in 2019, but they were strengthened last year. The array of noises encompassed by the regulations include open air concerts, use of musical instruments on beaches, and shouting.

The local city council warned of hefty fines for anybody flouting the rules.

Money matters and passport pains

Post-Brexit, Brits are subject to the 'third states' rules Spain imposes on visitors from outside the European Union.

A traveller visiting Spain must "present proof of having sufficient financial means for the proposed stay", or at least the ability to legally obtain that money, according to the Spanish foreign ministry.

In 2023, the minimum amount required was $120 (£97) per person per day, and the traveller had to have at least $1100 (£885) or its equivalent in foreign currency regardless of the length of the stay.

Travellers can show they have enough money by presenting cash, travellers' cheques, a credit card with a bank account statement, an up-to-date bank book or similar. The ministry states that bank letters or online bank statements are not accepted.

Brits flying abroad are also being warned about post-Brexit passport rules , which have landed travellers with hefty fines.

Some families are finding themselves thousands of pounds out of pocket when they have been banned from boarding flights due to the rule changes.

When the UK was a member of the EU, British passports remained valid up to and including their expiry date for travel to other EU countries, but now passports need to be valid for valid for at least three months after the date you intend to leave the EU country you are visiting.

More details of the post-Brexit rules on passports can be found on the ITV News website .

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Politics latest: MSP who could decide Humza Yousaf's fate appears to reveal price for her support

Scotland's first minister says he will fight a vote in his leadership and is "very confident" of winning. Listen to this week's episode of the Electoral Dysfunction podcast while you scroll through the latest updates.

Friday 26 April 2024 18:00, UK

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• Yousaf tells Sky News he'll 'fight' vote of no-confidence and is optimistic of winning
• MSP who could decide his fate seems to have named price for her support
• Connor Gillies:  First minister must reset relations with very people he's burned bridges with
• Explained: How did we get here - and what happens next?
• Coming up on Sunday: PM sits down with Trevor Phillips
• Latest  Electoral Dysfunction podcast explores what next week's local elections will bring
• Sam Coates explains why they matter
• Live reporting by Charlotte Chelsom-Pill

Rishi Sunak  sits down this Sunday with Trevor Phillips for a wide-ranging interview ahead of the local elections.

With the Rwanda bill becoming law this week and the PM announcing a commitment to increase defence spending, there's been plenty to talk about.

You can watch it in full from 8.30am on Sunday .

Trevor will also be joined by Labour's shadow health secretary Wes Streeting .

Embattled Humza Yousaf has told Sky News he will not resign as Scotland's first minister.

Pressure has been building on  the SNP leader  after he tore up the power-sharing deal with the Scottish Greens - prompting a no-confidence motion in his leadership and a threatened knife-edge vote.

However, Mr Yousaf, on a visit to Dundee that was arranged at short notice after he pulled out of a speech in Glasgow, insisted he was getting on with the job and accused the opposition of "playing games".

He said he would be writing to the leaders of all Scottish political parties to seek talks on making a minority government work.

He told Sky's Scotland correspondent Connor Gillies : "I intend absolutely to fight that vote of no confidence, I've got every intention of winning that vote of no confidence.

"And let me say to the opposition for minority government to work in the interest of the people of Scotland also requires the opposition to act in good faith."

Humza Yousaf's future as first minister is hanging in the balance ahead of a motion of no confidence next week.

Now, as leader of a minority government, his fate may be hanging on just one vote - that of a former SNP leadership rival. 

We take a look at how:

The numbers

In the Scottish parliament, the SNP has 63 seats out of 129 , two short of an outright majority;

The Conservatives have  31;

Labour has 22;

The Greens have  seven;

The Liberal Democrats have four;

The Alba Party has one ;

There is also one presiding officer Alison Johnstone, who is both an MSP and Scotland's equivalent of the Commons speaker.

How the numbers are expected to fall

The motion of no confidence was brought by the Scottish Conservatives.

The Greens, Labour and the Lib Dems have all said they are backing the motion.

That would translate into 64 votes against the first minister versus 63 SNP votes.

So the one Alba vote is expected to be key.

How it may all come down to one ... Ash Regan

Once an SNP leadership rival to Mr Yousaf, Ash Regan defected to Alex Salmond's Alba Party last October. 

If she backs Mr Yousaf then that would mean both sides have 64 votes.

Ms Johnstone would then be expected to vote in favour of the status quo, so the first minister would survive.

But if Ms Regan votes against Mr Yousaf, then the opposition parties will have 65 votes against the SNP's 63, and the first minister would lose.

He wouldn't be compelled to resign in this situation, but he'd be under huge pressure to step aside.

More to come

And remember, Scottish Labour have lodged a separate motion of no confidence in the Scottish government. 

Alba have said it won't back that motion.

Scotland's First Minister Humza Yousaf is battling to save his job as he faces a knife-edge no-confidence vote.

The SNP leader triggered a crisis at Holyrood after he dramatically brought the power-sharing deal with the Scottish Greens to an end.

The backlash has plunged Mr Yousaf's future into doubt, although party colleagues insist he will not resign.

How did we get here?

The Bute House Agreement - signed back in 2021 and named after the first minister's official residence in Edinburgh - brought the Green Party into government for the first time anywhere in the UK.

It gave the SNP a majority at Holyrood when the votes of its MSPs were combined with those of the seven Green members, and also made Green co-leaders Patrick Harvie and Lorna Slater junior ministers.

Without it, the SNP would need to have operated as a minority administration at Holyrood.

What caused the relationship to sour?

There had been mounting tensions between the largest party at Holyrood and their junior partners in government.

The Greens were angered at the SNP-led administration's recent decision to ditch a key climate change target.

That, combined with the decision to pause the prescription of new puberty blockers to under-18s at at Scotland's only gender clinic, resulted in the Greens announcing they would have a vote on the future of the power-sharing deal. 

Read more here:

The 2 May local elections will see more than 2,600 seats at stake across 107 English councils.

Labour's Sadiq Khan and Andy Burnham are among the 10 mayors up for re-election.  

Those in Blackpool South will also be voting for their next MP after ex-Tory Scott Benton broke Commons lobbying rules, triggering a by-election.  

With the Conservatives lagging behind Labour in the polls, the outcome will offer some insight on how voters in England and Wales feel ahead of the general election.

On the Sky News Daily, Niall Paterson is joined by deputy political editor Sam Coates to discuss why the elections are so important for the prime minister's future and where the key political backgrounds are.

By Daniel Dunford , senior data journalist

There might not be a general election just yet, but there are important votes that will define how the areas around us are run for the next four years. 

See what's happening where you are here:

With the local elections less than a week away, deputy political editor Sam Coates explains why they matter and what they might tell us about the upcoming general election.

Ash Regan - the MSP who could decide the future of Humza Yousaf - has appeared to name her price for her support in next week's no-confidence vote.

She has said, in a letter to Alba Party members, that investment in the Grangemouth refinery will be a key condition of her backing the first minister.

The refinery is currently due to shut as early as next year and move to being an import and export terminal.

Alba has launched a a campaign to sustain jobs at the refinery.

"A sign of good faith would be a significant government investment, reinforcing the campaign to save the Grangemouth refinery from closure," she says in her letter.

"I am requesting the undertaking to produce such an initiative in the early course.

"I am hopeful that the first minister will commit to such an initiative in the near future as a sign of our shared dedication to Scotland's welfare."

Ms Regan was once part of the SNP and ran in the contest to succeed Nicola Sturgeon as leader last year, the contest Mr Yousaf won.

She defected to Alex Salmond's Alba Party in October. 

The battle for a town that no one there wants.

Sky News is reporting from Grimsby in the run-up to the general election as one of its Target Towns - a key constituency prized by both Conservatives and Labour - Great Grimsby and Cleethorpes.

But it turns out that Grimsby doesn't really want them.

It hasn't always been a town doused in apathy. 

In 2016, 70% of people here voted to leave the EU - one of the highest results in the country - and in the 2019 election, the constituency turned Tory for the first time since the Second World War.

But five years on, polling by Sky News found that since then, the number of people saying they "almost never" trust the British government to place the needs of the nation above the interests of their own party has nearly doubled - from 26% to 49%.

It's a stark but bleak view. Voters described both leaders as uninspiring and uninteresting.

When asked what they make of the current prime minister, words like "weak" and "performative" were used. 

Voters couldn't make their minds up about the Labour leader, saying they were unsure about him or his policies.

The lack of a clear dividing line between the two parties could be a problem in the general election, especially as both parties have been trying to show a bit more leg this week ahead of a fully-fledged election campaign.

Labour has shown a hint of more radical policies, with their announcement on aiming to nationalise railways within five years. 

But have they waited a bit too long to impress the people of Grimsby?

The Conservatives ratified their Rwanda policy into law, but voters here weren't hugely enthused by that either, with one member of the audience tonight proclaiming they care much more about housing and the environment. 

They asked - why is the centre of political debate about Rwanda and a policy we don't really care about?

Apathy might override this election.

By  Jennifer Scott , political reporter

Voters in Grimsby - one of Sky News's election Target Towns - have been offering their views on politics, politicians and "broken promises".

The electoral battle in Grimsby and Cleethorpes,  the Target Towns , will be fierce. Labour will need an 11.7 point swing to win this newly-merged constituency back from the Conservatives.

In 2019, residents in Grimsby voted Tory for the first time since the end of the Second World War. The old Cleethorpes constituency was always more of a bellwether, having voted Conservative since 2010.

However, it has shed some of its rural, Conservative-voting residents in the merger.

Speaking on the  Politics Hub With Sophy Ridge , small business owner Shannon said she might not vote in the next general election later this year as she "just can't trust anything anybody says".

She said she has felt this way since Brexit - something Grimsby was overwhelmingly in support of - because "we were promised 'x' and 'y' and it hasn't happened, so I'm just totally disengaged from it".

Asked whether local MPs on the panel - Conservative Lia Nici and Labour's Melanie Onn - could change her mind, Shannon said "possibly", but reiterated how let down local people feel.

"We're promised a lot, but it's never delivered," she said. "Talk of things happening... and then it doesn't happen and people are just fed up... have been told this is what we're going to get, but it doesn't actually happen. And that's why people have just lost faith."

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