Spain holiday warning as new crackdown could see UK tourists slapped with ban

14 March 2024 , 10:59

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The rule is important for frequent Spain visitors to be aware of (Image: AFP via Getty Images)

UK holidaymakers who frequently visit Spain are being warned of a possible three-year ban if they break a key travel rule.

After Brexit, UK citizens can only stay in Spain, or any other EU country, for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period. This rule has caused issues for some Brits who own holiday homes in Spain and can only spend half the year there.

It's estimated that between 800,000 and one million UK nationals own property in Spain, but only 370,000 are registered as residents and can freely travel. Those who overstay could face hefty fines ranging from 500 to 10,000 euros, depending on the length of the overstaying.

Moreover, tourists who stay longer than 90 days without a visa could be banned from returning to Spain or any other Schengen country for up to three years. They could also receive a fine along with the entry ban.

The new border rules have been in force since the UK left the EU (Getty Images)

Spain has been pushing to scrap the 90-day limit, but it seems like this rule will be enforced more strictly when the new EU Entry/Exit System (EES) starts in October. This new system is meant to keep a closer eye on visitors from outside the EU by noting down when and where they come in and go out, as well as details like fingerprints, reports Birmingham Live.

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Holidaymakers will have to use self-service machines at the airport to scan their passports instead of getting them stamped by hand. Then, another new system will start in the middle of 2025, which will mean people from outside the EU will need to ask for a travel permit before they can enter the EU.

People going on holiday will need to ask for permission either online or using a mobile app, and the new European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) will then check these requests against EU border records. Most people will get permission within minutes, but some might need extra checks, which could take up to 30 days.

These checks will be done using EU information logs for borders and security and most people will get an answer within minutes. However, the European Commission said that some people might need extra checks, which could make them wait for up to 30 days for permission.

Once you've got your ETIAS authorisation, it'll last for three years or until your passport runs out (whichever comes first). After that, you'll need to renew it. It'll cost 7 or £6 for anyone aged 18 to 70. If you're under 18 or over 70, you won't have to pay, but you'll still need to apply.

According to the European Commission, the system will apply when entering 25 EU countries, including Spain, France, Germany, Greece, Italy and Portugal, and four non-EU countries - Norway, Iceland, Switzerland and Lichtenstein - that are part of the border-free Schengen area.

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Emily Chaplin