What documents do UK citizens need to enter Spain?

UK citizens must submit the following documents to enter the Republic of Spain:
  • An authorized border-crossing point.
  • An ID document.
  • A valid passport.
  • A document showing the applicant can not be banned from entering Spain.
  • A bank statement document.
  • An accommodation proof.
  • A valid health insurance.




In 2026, UK citizens must navigate the full implementation of the ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System). To enter Spain, you primarily need a valid British Passport that was issued less than 10 years before the date you enter the country and is valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave. Additionally, you must have your approved ETIAS authorization linked digitally to your passport, which costs approximately €7 and is valid for three years. Since the UK is now a "third country" under Schengen rules, Spanish border guards may also ask for "Proof of Resources" (showing you have enough money for your stay), proof of accommodation (such as a hotel booking), and a return or onward ticket. While a visa is not required for stays under 90 days within a 180-day period, UK travelers should also carry a GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card) or a valid EHIC to ensure access to state healthcare, as travel insurance is highly recommended but not a strictly "mandatory" entry document.

People Also Ask

When will ETIAS be necessary to travel from the UK to Spain? ETIAS will become obligatory for UK travellers in 2025. The system is scheduled to go live and become mandatory from that time onwards.

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Requirements for British Citizens Travelling to the EU
  1. Valid passport.
  2. Health insurance (such as private travel insurance or an EHIC/GHIC).
  3. Enough money to cover your stay in the EU.
  4. Return or onward travel ticket.


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Yes, British citizens will need an ETIAS to visit Spain starting from 2023, when it becomes mandatory. The ETIAS will allow UK citizens multiple short trips of up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes, in periods of three years.

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If travelling to Spain and other Schengen countries without a visa, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day limit. Visits to Schengen countries within the previous 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days.

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You might also notice that some small shops accept cards only for purchases above a certain amount, normally 10 euros. Also taxis usually take cards, but some do not or simply do not want to take anything other than cash. For these reasons, it is advisable to always carry a little bit of cash with you.

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Spanish regulations ban the import of illicit narcotics and drugs. There are also very restrictive regulations for imports of explosives, firearms, defense equipment and material, tobacco, and gambling material.

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What is the Schengen 90/180 rule? Under the terms of Schengen, non-EEA nationals cannot spend more than a total of 90 days within a total period of 180 days without a visa. Furthermore, once you've used up your quota of 90 days, you cannot return to Schengen until 90 more days have passed.

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ETIAS will cost 7 euros (about $8 or 6 British pounds) for a three-year permit that allows third-country nationals to enter the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

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The ETIAS form is accessed directly online. You'll be prompted to provide your passport details and asked to answer a list of security questions, so have your valid passport handy before you begin. You'll also need a credit or debit card to complete the process. Once you're finished, the form is submitted immediately.

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Exercise increased caution in Spain due to terrorism and civil unrest. Country Summary: Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Spain.

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In mid-to-late 2023, U.S. citizens and nationals of over 60 other countries will need an electronic travel authorization to visit much of Europe. Travelers to any Schengen-zone country will have to register with a European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS).

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Schengen started in 1985 with just six countries. The UK opted out of the initiative, having much less interest in scrapping border controls because of its island geography.

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Spain currently does not have any plans of changing the 90-day rule. Technically, this rule is not under Spanish jurisdiction, as it is a rule that applies to the whole Schengen Area. So even if Spain wanted to change this rule, the change can only be initiated by authorities of the European Union.

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