British tourists visiting Spain will have to prove they can afford to stay for the duration of their holiday in the sun – and show where they will be based.
Brexit has led to tighter border controls for British citizens travelling to European Union countries and Spain is one of the top holiday destinations for UK tourists, with more than a million visiting every year.
Among regulations set in place is one requiring British sun-seekers to prove they have access to funds equivalent to £93 for each day of their stay in Spain.
A UK government website for entry requirements to Spain says UK nationals may now also need to provide additional documents when entering the Schengen area as tourists.
In addition to proof of a valid return or onward ticket and the necessary funds, travellers to Spain may also be asked for proof of accommodation. For example, a hotel booking confirmation, proof of address if visiting a private property such as a second home, or an invitation from a host and/or proof of their address if staying with a third party, friends or family. The Spanish government has clarified that its “carta de invitacion” is one of the options available to Brits to prove an address if staying with friends or family.
Manuel Butler, director of the Spanish Tourist Office (UK), said: “The requirement for UK travellers to be able to illustrate sufficient means for the duration of their stay and the return is established in the Schengen Borders Code and is not a Spain-specific requirement,” adding, “This is not a new requirement and has been in place for some time for visitors from outside of the European Union or Schengen area.”
Butler did point out that, “When entering Spain, these checks are not systematically carried out for every traveller.”
He added that similar rules apply to foreign visitors entering the UK: “Likewise, travellers coming to the UK are also required to show that they have specific means to support themselves and any dependents for the duration of the trip and the ability to pay for the return or onward journey.”
