Before embarking on a trip to Spain, it is essential to be aware of three key travel rule changes. Recent months have brought significant alterations in how UK residents travel, particularly affecting Spain, a popular holiday destination. Staying informed about these changes is crucial to avoid any disruptions, considering the high number of British tourists visiting Spain annually, with over 19 million recorded last year.
One recent change impacting British pet owners traveling abroad with their pets is the invalidation of most pet passports for entry into the EU. Instead, travelers must now obtain an animal health certificate (AHC) for their pets, including dogs, cats, assistance dogs, or ferrets. The government has advised against using EU pet passports for travel from Great Britain into the EU.
The AHC, issued by a veterinarian up to 10 days before the journey, is required for each trip to the EU. While valid for up to 6 months for travel within the EU and re-entry into Britain, it must accompany the pet with a current rabies vaccination. Conversely, returning to Britain does not require changes to pet travel documentation, allowing the continued use of EU pet passports.
Moreover, the European Union’s Entry/Exit System (EES) was fully implemented on April 10, 2026, at airports, necessitating British travelers to create a digital record and provide biometric details like fingerprints and a photograph when entering the Schengen area. The EES registration is valid for three years after the initial setup, encompassing various Schengen countries, including Spain.
Following the EES rollout, British travelers have encountered travel disruptions due to the new digital border checks. To alleviate the pressure, Spanish airports are making adjustments to expedite the process, directing certain passengers to traditional border control points for efficient clearance.
For trips to Spain, Brits can visit visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period with a valid passport. It is crucial to comply with the visa-free limit and avoid overstaying, as it may result in a ban from Schengen countries for up to 3 years. At border control, travelers should be prepared to show necessary documents.
For detailed travel information regarding Spain, visitors can refer to the Foreign Office website.
