The UK government urges British holidaymakers to keep a copy of the important document on hand when travelling to the popular destination
The changes are sure to disrupt some holiday plans(Image: Shared Content Unit)
British holidaymakers planning a trip to Spain could face hefty fines of up to €6,900 (£5,900) if they are caught without the proper paperwork due to new post-Brexit travel regulations. Spain remains the most popular holiday destination for Brits every year.
The new crackdown sees Spain’s Ministry of the Interior, alongside the Ministry of Health, establish new rules that British tourists need to be aware of.
UK travellers to Spain must now present evidence of comprehensive travel insurance upon arrival. A European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or a Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) will no longer be sufficient to cover their stay.
All holidaymakers are required to have private health insurance that includes full coverage. This insurance should cover emergencies, hospital stays, and repatriation, and it must not have excessive deductibles or exclude pre-existing health conditions.
Spanish Health Minister Carolina Darias stated, “The health of our visitors is a priority. We are committed to ensuring that all travellers, including British nationals, have the necessary coverage to protect themselves and the local healthcare system.”
Tourists who arrive without adequate health insurance could be turned away at the Spanish border. Furthermore, those who are on holiday without insurance may face fines of up to £5,900, according to reports from Bristol Live.
The UK government has provided key advice for holidaymakers, emphasising the importance of obtaining appropriate travel insurance before travelling to Spain. They recommend that travellers carry proof of their coverage.
In a statement from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), officials advised, “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.”
The FCDO also highlighted the necessity of securing travel insurance before departure, stating, “If you travel internationally, you should purchase appropriate travel insurance before you go, covering you for existing physical or mental health conditions (including those currently under investigation) and any activities you will engage in while away.”
Official guidance concludes, “If you do not have appropriate insurance before you travel, you could be liable for emergency expenses, including medical treatment, which may cost thousands of pounds.”
These changes are part of a series of amendments to the rules for Brits visiting Spain, and UK tourists are encouraged to check their travel documents, such as passports, before departing. Additionally, Spain has introduced a new national register for tourist accommodations to reduce unlicensed short-term rentals.
Protests against tourism have become increasingly common as Spanish citizens of tourist cities fight back against the housing shortage caused by short-term rentals.