Spain is a favourite holiday destination among UK travellers, but there are new rules that Brits must follow post-Brexit to avoid being banned from the country
UK travellers are permitted to stay for up to 90 days within any 180-day period – and overstaying is not an option(Image: Getty Images)
Millions of UK residents flock to Spain each year, eager to bask in the sunshine and immerse themselves in Spanish culture, and this summer will likely see another influx of UK tourists. However, excitement often gets the better of us, which is why it’s vital for anyone planning a Spanish getaway to be well-prepared.
Following Brexit, fresh rules have come into force, bringing significant changes to travel requirements. Gone are the days when British passport holders could freely enter Spain without getting a stamp, staying for as long as they pleased.
Today, the rules dictate that UK travellers are permitted to stay for up to 90 days within any 180-day period in Spain and other Schengen countries.
Moreover, passport validity has become crucial. The “date of issue” must fall within the past decade, while the “expiry date” should extend at least three months beyond your planned departure date from the Schengen zone.
According to the Foreign Office, failure to adhere to these regulations when visiting Spain, Greece, France, Italy, and other Schengen nations may result in a lengthy ban, reports the Liverpool Echo.
Brits heading to Greece have been issued a warning over staying in the Schengen area for more than 90 days. The Foreign Office guidance for Greece states: “If you’re travelling to other Schengen countries as well, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day visa-free limit. Visits to Schengen countries within the previous 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days.”
It adds: “If you overstay the 90-day visa-free limit, you may be banned from entering Schengen countries for up to 3 years.”
Greece is among 26 European countries in the Schengen area, which includes popular destinations such as Spain, France, Germany, Italy and Portugal, as well as non-EU nations like Iceland and Switzerland.