Sun Lawyers has prepared a helpful note for UK citizens travelling to the EU including Spain from 1 January 2021.
This note does not take account of any specific rules for travelling between Spain and the UK that relates to the Coronavirus Pandemic.
Passport. On the day you travel, you will need at least six months left on your passport AND the passport may not be more than 10 years old.
Healthcare. Your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) will continue to be valid for travel to Spain. There is some detail around EHIC and its replacement, GHIC, and this can be found on the NHS website.
Entering Spain. There seems to be an acceptance that it will take slightly longer to enter Spain from whichever border point you arrive at. You will not be able to use the EU lanes anymore when making your way to passport control. If you are a tourist, you will not need a visa for visiting Spain. You will be able to stay for 90 days in any 180 period. This 90 days in 180 includes visits to other Schengen countries.
The EU’s latest definition is that it should be best understood not by looking forward in time from the point of entry, but rather by looking back. It should therefore technically be imagined as a ‘moving’ period of 180 days as opposed to a fixed period starting on the first day you enter the area.
What you can bring with you into Spain. You will not be able to take meat, milk or products containing them into Spain.
Driving. If you are taking your own vehicle into Spain either directly or via another EU country, you will need a Green Card and GB sticker. If you have a licence issued in Gibraltar (plus other UK offshore territories) you will need an International Driving Permit.
Travelling with pets. The pet passport scheme ends on 31 December 2020. Instead you will need an Animal Health Certificate. If you are planning a trip to Spain or any other EU country, note that these certificates can take a month or longer to arrange.
Roaming phone charges. There is less certainty in relation to charges and the guarantee of free roaming throughout the EU has been removed. Check with your operator if this is of concern to you.
Travel insurance. Check your provider’s terms and conditions to make sure you have the cover you need if your travel is cancelled or delayed.
This is meant as an advisory note only and should not be relied upon. For the latest information go to the Visiting Europe after 1 January pages on the UK Government website.
