The UK government has warned over the identification requirements when travelling to Spain
The UK government has urged UK tourists to be aware of certain identification rules in Spain (Image: Alex Wong/Getty Images)
The UK government has issued a warning over the identification requirements when travelling to Spain.
Brits are being urged to ensure they have their ID on them at all times or risk being hit with fines, detention or even being told they cannot enter Spain.
It is essential UK tourists listen to the identification requirement in the event a police officer asks for your photo ID. This could be an individual from the Guardia Civil and national, regional, and local police forces.
The government stated: “The police have the right to hold you at a police station until they have confirmed your identity.
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“Ignoring direct requests of a police officer can be considered as ‘disobedience’, which is a criminal offence. Hotels, tourist accommodation and car rental companies have a legal duty to register passport and other details of tourists who check in or collect a vehicle.”
According to the official body, it is important to be aware that staff at accommodation you may stay in in Spain will require your passport details or a copy of it.
It is crucial you do not leave your passport with the establishment – instead wait for it to be returned after your information has been taken.
The website read: “Do not leave your passport at reception to collect later. You may need to show ID when buying goods with credit or debit cards. Some shops will accept your driving licence or a copy of your passport, but some may ask for your passport,” the Express reported.
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According to the Foreign Office, you may even be asked for your ID when buying items with your credit or debit card.
The webpage states: “You may need to show ID when buying goods with credit or debit cards. Some shops will accept your driving licence or a copy of your passport, but some may ask for your passport.”
Other ruled in Spain UK tourists should be aware of include alcohol restrictions and bans in some areas of Spain.
The advice page continues: “It’s illegal to drink alcohol in the street in some areas of Spain.
“You can get an on-the-spot fine. There are strict controls on drinking and sexual activity in public places, including on beaches.