Spain continues to be a favorite destination for British tourists, business professionals, students, and expats alike. Following Brexit and ongoing global regulatory updates, it’s more important than ever to stay informed about the latest entry requirements before you travel.
Planning a trip to Spain in 2025? Whether you’re a UK citizen or traveling from the US, EU, Canada, Australia, or elsewhere, it’s crucial to understand Spain’s visa and entry requirements. This complete guide provides information on visa policies, border checks, financial requirements, and health regulations for Spain.
1. VISA REQUIREMENTS
Visa Requirements for UK Citizens
Since Brexit, UK passport holders are considered third country nationals when entering the Schengen Area. The good news is that UK citizens can still visit Spain visa free for up to 90 days within any rolling 180 day period for purposes such as tourism, visiting family or friends, attending business meetings, or short educational courses.
Important for 2025: The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is expected to launch at the end of 2025. UK travellers will need to apply for ETIAS authorization online before travel. This authorization will function similarly to the ESTA system used by the United States, requiring a brief online application, payment of a small processing fee, and advance approval before departure.
Visa requirements for EU/EEA/Schengen citizens
Citizens from EU, EEA, and Schengen countries can enter Spain without any visa, using just a valid national ID card or passport. ETIAS is not required for these travellers.
Visa rules for US, Canada, and Australia citizens
US, Canadian, and Australian passport holders can enter Spain visa free for up to 90 days within a 180 day period for tourism, business, or visiting friends and family.
Starting in 2025, travellers from these countries will also be required to apply for ETIAS authorization before entering Spain.
2. OTHER requirements
2.1 Passport requirements
Before traveling to Spain, ensure your passport meets the following requirements:
- Valid for at least 3 months beyond your intended date of departure from Spain.
- Issued within the past 10 years.
- Free from significant damage, missing pages, or alterations.
Failure to meet these conditions may result in denied boarding or entry.
2.2 Spain entry requirements at the border: Documents you may need
Upon arrival at a Spanish border checkpoint, travellers may be required to present documentation to justify the purpose and conditions of their stay. The officials at the border rarely ask for this information, but It is advised to keep it handy. The following documents may be requested:
- Return or onward flight ticket.
- Business trips: invitation letters from Spanish companies or authorities, proof of business ties, or event registrations.
- Tourism or private visits: hotel bookings, organized trip confirmations, or an invitation letter from a host in Spain (note: an invitation letter only confirms accommodation).
- Study, internship, or volunteer work (under 3 months): enrollment confirmation, internship contracts, or volunteer program acceptance.
- Other purposes: event invitations, registration confirmations, tickets, or receipts.
2.3 Proof of financial means to enter Spain in 2025
To ensure that travellers can financially support themselves during their stay, Spanish authorities may request proof of sufficient funds. Same as the other entry requirements, it barely gets asked. As of 2025, the following financial benchmarks apply:
- A minimum of 118 EUR per person per day of the intended stay.
- For stays exceeding 9 days, proof of at least 1,065 EUR total funds available is required.
2.4 Health Requirements
Currently, Spain has lifted the majority of COVID 19 related travel restrictions. No mandatory testing, vaccination proof, or health forms are generally required to enter Spain for the time being. However, travellers may occasionally be subject to random health checks upon arrival at Spanish airports or other entry points.
It is still advised to monitor both Spanish government updates and airline policies prior to departure, as regulations can shift depending on global health developments.
2.5 Travel Insurance
Though travel insurance is not legally required for short stays, it is strongly advised to purchase robust coverage. A good travel insurance policy should include protection for:
- Medical emergencies, including hospital care and repatriation
- Trip cancellations or delays
- Loss or theft of luggage and personal belongings
- Unexpected interruptions such as natural disasters or political unrest
Comprehensive travel insurance can provide peace of mind and valuable financial protection in unforeseen situations.
2.6 Customs and declarations
When entering Spain, you are allowed to bring in personal items for your stay without paying customs duties. However, certain limitations and obligations apply:
- Travellers carrying cash or equivalent funds exceeding 10,000 EUR must declare this amount to customs officials.
- Items such as fresh food, plants, certain animal products, and endangered species products may be restricted or prohibited.
- Alcohol, tobacco, and certain goods may be subject to quantity limits for personal importation.
Always review the most recent customs regulations prior to departure to avoid unexpected complications at the border.
Spain remains one of the most welcoming and accessible destinations in Europe, offering stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and world class cuisine. While entry requirements may seem detailed, being well prepared will allow you to enjoy your time in Spain without unnecessary stress or surprises at the border. Always double check official updates before departure, organize your documents in advance, and consider travel insurance for extra peace of mind.
