The rule extends to Greece, France and other countries too
It’s important not to break this rule(Image: Jose A. Bernat Bacete via Getty Images)
Each year, Spain attracts millions of holidaymakers from the UK alone, thanks to its sunny climate and rich cultural heritage. The Mediterranean destination remains the top choice for UK tourists, with another busy summer season anticipated this year.
While going on holiday is an exciting time, it’s crucial for those heading to Spain to familiarise themselves with current travel requirements. This has become particularly important following Brexit, which has ushered in a series of new regulations for British travellers, reports the Liverpool Echo.
Prior to the UK’s departure from the EU, British passport holders enjoyed unrestricted access to Spain without the need for entry stamps and could remain indefinitely. Now, however, UK visitors are subject to the 90/180 rule, meaning they can only spend a maximum of 90 days within any 180-day period across Spain and other Schengen Area nations.
Furthermore, travellers must ensure their passports meet specific validity criteria: the document must have been issued within the previous 10 years and must remain valid for at least three months beyond their intended departure date from the Schengen zone. The Foreign Office warns that non-compliance with these requirements when visiting Spain or fellow Schengen countries, including Greece, France, and Italy, could lead to a substantial travel ban.
The Foreign Office has issued clear guidance for travellers heading to Spain and other Schengen nations: “If you overstay the 90-day visa-free limit, you may be banned from entering Schengen countries for up to 3 years.”
The Schengen zone includes Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Czechia, Croatia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, Norway, The Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland.