MADRID – Holidays in Spain are highly popular with the British and with the prospect of a relaxation of the COVID restrictions, people are now looking for information on when they can travel to Spain again.
The Foreign Office has updated their travel advice for Spain. However, Prime Minister, Boris Johnson is expected to give a speech this afternoon (Monday April 4) at 5pm (UK time). Furthermore, this will update restrictions and outline a “traffic light system” for foreign travel to selected countries. However, many countries may also require vaccine passports for people entering, or negative test results.
Spanish holidays
Under the current plan for easing restrictions, the earliest date people in England could go abroad for a holiday would be 17 May.
Also, in any case, Spanish holidays had been out of the question for several months. Spain had blocked UK arrivals in December and only recently lifted the ban at the end of March. However, some restrictions on who can enter Spain remain in place albeit eased.
Compassionate grounds
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development (FCDO) clarified who can enter Spain. And the good news for those who have loved ones in Spain, this may well be an acceptable reason. Travelling on “compassionate grounds” now counts as an “essential” reason to make the journey.
“Passenger travel from the UK to Spain is restricted to EU and Schengen associated state citizens. Also, those who are legally resident in the EU or in Schengen associated states. Or those passengers who can demonstrate that their journey is essential (including on compassionate grounds),” the FCDO explained in its updated travel advice.
Entry requirements
The FCDO details a long list of the permitted reasons to enter Spain. All of the circumstances listed must be justified by documentary evidence.
“You should be aware that you may be questioned on arrival by Spanish border authorities. This is to ensure you meet the entry requirements.
“Spanish border authorities will only grant entry if they are satisfied that your journey to Spain is essential. Moreover, they reserve the right to deny entry.”
Anyone who does travel to Spain must be aware of the new Brexit rules. These came into force at the start of the new year, on January 1, 2021.
