Budget carrier easyJet has issued a cautionary notice to British travelers using its four routes from the UK to a popular vacation destination frequented by around 1.3 million Brits annually due to new entry regulations that took effect earlier this month.
According to easyJet, as of July 15, 2026, Gibraltar will align with Schengen entry prerequisites. Passengers heading to Gibraltar are advised to verify that their travel documents comply with the updated regulations before departure.
The airline services four routes from the UK to Gibraltar International Airport originating from Birmingham, Bristol, London-Gatwick, and Manchester. British Airways is the only other carrier operating from this airport, offering a London-Heathrow service.
easyJet highlighted the key modifications, noting that UK visas and residence permits/share codes will no longer be valid for entry into Gibraltar. Additionally, passports for travelers from non-Schengen countries (excluding Ireland and Cyprus) must have been issued within the last decade and remain valid for at least three months beyond the departure date from Gibraltar.
These adjustments bring Gibraltar in line with the entry requirements of the other 29 countries in the Schengen area, necessitating registration under the Entry/Exit System (EES). Travelers are urged to ensure they possess the correct documentation to prevent any complications at the airport and can refer to the government website for guidance.
Despite remaining a self-governing British Overseas Territory, a post-Brexit agreement effective July 15 has eliminated the border between Spain and Gibraltar, removing border controls and customs checks for individuals traveling between the two territories.
Previously, the border had caused delays and lengthy queues for locals processing an average of 15,000 daily crossings for work, education, and social reasons.
While Gibraltar retains its autonomy, it is now functionally part of the Schengen free-movement area, resulting in noticeable changes for British visitors. The EES system will involve fingerprint and face scans similar to those required by the EU at airports.
The FCDO stated that upon arrival at Joshua Hassan Gibraltar International Airport, travelers should anticipate two sets of checks to gain entry into Gibraltar and the Schengen Area, conducted by the respective authorities.
These procedures include registration under the Entry/Exit System (EES) when applicable, with the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) to be implemented subsequently. Once these checks are cleared, travelers can freely cross the land border from Gibraltar into Spain and the broader Schengen Area.
