The rule applies to Spain, France, Greece and Italy
(Image: PA)
Millions of Brits who jet off to holiday hotspots across Europe each year could see their travel restricted due to a 90-day rule enforced after Brexit.
Prior to the UK’s departure from the European Union (EU), British passport holders could enter popular destinations like Spain, Greece and Italy without needing their documents to be stamped, and faced no time restrictions on trips, reports the Liverpool Echo.
Now, though, British holidaymakers are restricted to a maximum of 90 days within any 180-day window for any nation within the Schengen Area. These new entry and exit rules came into force last October.
The Schengen area includes all EU member states except Ireland and Cyprus. The 27 countries that make up the alliance have abolished passport controls between them, allowing for free movement.
These are:
- Germany
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- The Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
Alongside this, passports must display a “date of issue” from within the previous decade before arrival and an “expiry date” extending at least three months beyond the intended departure from the Schengen zone.
Based on Foreign Office (FCDO) guidance, failure to adhere to these requirements when travelling to Spain or other Schengen nations like Greece, France and Italy, could lead to an extended ban.
The FCDO warns: “If you overstay the 90-day visa-free limit, you may be banned from entering Schengen countries for up to 3 years. Visits to Schengen countries within the previous 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days.”
Tourists sunbathe at Palma Beach in Palma de Mallorca.(Image: AFP via Getty Images)
If a UK citizen is found to have overstayed during a prior trip, it can lead to a marked passport. This would make it difficult or impossible to return to Spain or any other Schengen country in the future.
So, if you’re currently in the process of arranging your summer holiday for this year, make a note to be mindful of the 90-day limit. Even if you are visiting for shorter periods, remember that multiple trips within a 180-day period can add up quickly.
Keep track of the latest foreign travel advice by visiting the Foreign Office website.