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Foreign travel advice

Get advice about travelling abroad, including the latest information on coronavirus, safety and security, entry requirements and travel warnings.

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• Consular services

Conditions for entry into Spain

​Please read our FAQs  here​

Nationals of third States who travel to Spain for stays of up to 90 days (during any period of 180 days) for tourism, business, family visits, medical treatment, study, non-work internships or volunteer activities with a duration not exceeding 3 months, or for other non-gainful activities, must meet the entry conditions established in the Schengen Borders Code.

Entry requirements​​ 

• Enter via an authorised border-crossing point.
• Present proof of identity and a valid travel document.
• Present the corresponding visa if required, according to nationality.
• Provide evidence of meeting the conditions for the proposed stay and of possessing sufficient financial resources.
• Not be subject to a ban on entering Spain.  

Documents to present at the border​​  

1. Valid passport or travel document : The document must be valid until three months after the planned date of departure from the Schengen territory, and must have been issued during the ten years immediately before the date of entry. 

2. Visa : For certain nationalities, a valid visa is required. This visa will not be necessary if the interested party has a valid residence permit or a valid long-term visa issued by a Schengen State. 

3. Documents accrediting the purpose and conditions of the planned stay : At the request of the competent authorities, the reasons and conditions of the planned stay must be accredited by documentary proof or other means. To this end, the presentation, among others, of the following documents may be required: 

• Return or tourist circuit ticket, in all cases. 
• For professional trips, the invitation from a company or authority to participate in a meeting, or documents that prove the existence of a relationship associated with professional activity, or access cards to a trade fair or congress. 
• For tourist or private visits, the confirmed reservation of an organized trip, or proof of accommodation, or letter of invitation from a private individual (such a letter only proves the availability of accommodation and does not release the traveller from the obligation to meet the other requirements for entry). The proof of accommodation may indicate whether it includes all or part of the traveller's living expenses. 
• For study trips, training programmes, non-work internships or volunteer work with a duration of less than three months, enrolment documentation or proof of admission to an educational establishment or internship contract or proof of admission to a volunteer programme.  
• For travel for other reasons, an invitation, reservation, programme or certificate of participation in related activities, entrance card/ticket, or receipt. 

Accreditation of financial means​​​  

At the request of the competent authorities, the traveller must present proof of having sufficient financial means for the proposed stay or of the ability to legally obtain such means. 

In 2020, the minimum amount required is 90 euros per person per day. In any case, and regardless of the length of stay, the traveller must have at least 810 euros or its equivalent in foreign currency. 

Economic means may be accredited by presenting cash, traveller's cheques, a credit card accompanied by a bank account statement, an up-to-date bank book, or any other resource that accredits the amount available, such as a credit statement regarding the card or bank account. Bank letters or online bank statements will not be accepted.

Entry authorization​​​  

Authorization to enter Spain may be granted to nationals of third States who have the necessary documentation, including, where appropriate, a visa, and sufficient financial means, and who are not subject to an entry ban and do not pose a danger to public order, the internal or external security of the State, or public health.

Denial of entry​ 

The competent authorities will deny entry to nationals of third States who do not meet the entry requirements or who are subject to an entry ban. Entry may also be denied if, in the previous 180 days, the traveller has exhausted the 90-day period for authorized stay in the Schengen area. 

The denial of entry will be notified by means of a reasoned decision, together with information on the procedure for appealing against this decision, in accordance with Spanish regulations. However, filing an appeal does not suspend the effects of the denial of entry.

Citizens of the European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland, and their family members​​ 

Citizens of the Member States of the European Union, and citizens of Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland, may enter Spain with their national identity card or with a valid passport. Minors who travel with an identity document and are not accompanied by a parent will need the authorization of one of their parents. 

Family members who are not nationals of a Member State of the European Union or of Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland may enter with a valid passport. Depending on their nationality, they may need an entry visa, unless they have a valid residence card as the relative of a European Union citizen.

Relevant legislation 

Guide to Spain’s travel rules: what are the entry requirements for foreign tourists?

Here is an overview of the current restrictions on visitors coming from the european union, the united kingdom and the rest of the world.

The summer season has arrived and Spain is hoping for an influx of foreign visitors to revitalize its struggling tourism and hospitality sectors. While an uptick in domestic travel is helping, businesses know that the numbers will only add up when the international visitors show up.

Due to coronavirus measures in place, the options for travel to Spain will depend on the reasons for the trip (whether it’s for an essential purpose or for leisure), on the country of origin (part of the European Union or not) and on the visitor’s vaccination status.

But the differences in international mobility will most particularly depend on the visitor’s place of origin. Travel within the EU will be aided by the Digital Covid Certificate , which has been approved for use from July 1 and which Spain is already issuing.

Provided below are the answers to a few common questions about travel to Spain in the coming months.

Are there any restrictions on travel within the EU?

Movement within the EU is allowed, and the access requirements are the same across the territory. To ensure this, Brussels has developed a system known as the Digital Covid Certificate or Digital Green Pass (or more popularly as the vaccine passport), which lets bearers easily prove that they meet the conditions for entering another member state: either being fully vaccinated (the last dose must have been administered at least 14 days before travel), or having recovered from Covid-19, or being in possession of a negative diagnostic test (either PCR or antigen) taken 48 hours before arrival. This certificate is issued by national authorities in the national language and in English, and can be used in all member states.

Depending on the epidemiological situation, travelers from some parts of Europe will not be required to show evidence of vaccination, testing or recovery. These are the areas marked green in the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control’s traffic light system.

Are there non-EU countries whose residents may travel restriction-free?

There is a list of countries and special regions whose residents are not affected by the temporary restriction on non-essential travel to the EU due to their good control of the pandemic. They are Albania, Australia, South Korea, United States, Israel, Japan, Lebanon, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Rwanda, Serbia, Singapore, Thailand, Taiwan, China and the special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macao (subject to the principle of reciprocity). Visitors from these parts of the world will not be asked for proof of testing, vaccination or recovery. The United Kingdom was on this list as well, but this is changing on Friday due to a spike in infections in recent weeks.

What are the requirements for UK residents?

Starting on Friday, Spain will demand a negative diagnostic test (” NAAT type, e.g TMA, PCR, LAMP & NEAR ,” not antigen tests ) or proof of full vaccination from UK travelers, due to concerns over the delta variant of the coronavirus . These test results must have been issued within 48 hours of arrival into Spain. (Full information is available here at the gov.uk website.)

Is leisure travel to Spain from other non-EU countries allowed?

Visitors from other non-EU countries coming to Spain for leisure purposes must show proof of vaccination with one of the vaccines authorized by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) or the World Health Organization (WHO), with the second dose administered at least 14 days before travel. Non-vaccinated travelers will not be allowed into Spain for tourism, even if they have a negative diagnostic test or have recovered from Covid-19, or if they received a vaccine that has not been approved by the EMA or WHO.

What about children who are not being vaccinated yet?

Children under 12 traveling with an adult who has been immunized with an EMA or WHO-approved vaccine may freely enter Spain.

Are there any exceptions?

Yes. The Spanish government may leave out countries where new coronavirus variants pose a health risk. This is already happening with India, whose residents may not come to Spain on tourism even if they have been fully vaccinated. In practice, leisure trips from Brazil and South Africa are also off-limits since only flights carrying Spanish or Andorran nationals (or passengers in transit) are allowed into the country.

Are any additional documents necessary?

Yes. Regardless of the country of origin, travelers coming in by air or sea, including those in transit and children under 12, must fill out a health form available on www.spth.gob.es or via the mobile app Spain Travel Health. This will generate a QR code that must be shown before departure and at arrival.

English version by Susana Urra .

More information

Despite eased rules, outdoor masking endures in Spain

Spain will require travelers from UK to show diagnostic test or be fully vaccinated

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Can I travel to Spain from the UK? Foreign Office advice, latest quarantine rules and Covid-19 cases update

Spain's number of coronavirus cases has hit a massive 124.5 people per 100,000.

A few months ago it almost felt like holidays to Spain could be back to normal.

The Government had announced a list of air-bridges, which would mean travellers could avoid two weeks of quarantine after foreign travel, and the Mediterranean was open for business.

It didn’t take long, however, for cases to rise and the rush to return from Spain began to avoid 14 days at home when it was announced the country would be removed from the safe travel list.

Since then, Spain has been off limits to any Britons who are not able to quarantine upon their return.

Portugal , Hungary, and seven Greek islands have also suffered the same fate, among many others.

But can you travel to Spain ? Here’s everything you need to know.

What is the current travel advice for Spain?

People can still travel to Spain, but it is no longer exempt from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office advice against all but essential international travel.

This means that anyone who chooses to visit the country cannot get travel insurance for their trip.

As Spain does not have an air bridge with the UK, anyone returning from the country must also self-isolate for 14 days when arriving home.

What is the coronavirus situation in Spain?

There have been 704,209 coronavirus cases in Spain since the start of the pandemic, with more than 31,115 deaths, as of 25 September.

It was the second European country to be badly hit by the virus , and the situation was stabilised for a while. Unfortunately, August saw cases skyrocket and there have been 150,066 new cases in the 14 days up to 25 September, according to European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC).

By comparison, the UK has seen 58,225 new cases in the same period of time.

As of 25 September, Spain’s number of cases has also hit a massive 319.7 cases per 100,000 people, compared with 87.4 in the UK.

This means that Spain is unlikely to be added back on to the UK’s quarantine exemption list for the foreseeable future.

Where can you travel without having to quarantine?

The most recent change to the list of countries with travel corridors came on September, with quarantine rules reintroduced for Portugal (except the Azores and Madeira) Hungary, French Polynesia and Réunion.

Guadeloupe and Slovenia were also removed from the travel corridor list as of Saturday 19 September.

This means the full list of “air bridge” destinations is as follows:

• Akrotiri and Dhekelia
• Antigua and Barbuda
• Bonaire, St Eustatius and Saba
• British Antarctic Territory
• British Indian Ocean Territory
• British Virgin Islands
• Cayman Islands
• the Channel Islands
• Falkland Islands
• Faroe Islands
• Greece (except the islands of Crete, Lesvos, Mykonos, Santorini, Serifos, Tinos and Zakynthos – if you arrive in England from any of these islands you will need to self-isolate)
• the Isle of Man
• Liechtenstein
• Macao (Macau)
• New Caledonia
• New Zealand
• Pitcairn, Henderson, Ducie and Oeno Islands
• Singapore (if you arrived in England from Singapore before 4am 19 September 2020 you will need to self-isolate)
• South Korea
• South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands
• St Barthélemy
• St Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha
• St Kitts and Nevis
• St Pierre and Miquelon
• St Vincent and the Grenadines
• Thailand (if you arrived in England from Thailand before 4am 19 September 2020 you will need to self-isolate)
• Vatican City State

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Travel Advisory July 26, 2023

Spain - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in Spain due to  terrorism  and  civil unrest .

Country Summary:  Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Spain. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.

Demonstrations are common. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events.

Read the  country information page for additional information on travel in Spain.

If you decide to travel to Spain:

• Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and crowded public venues.
• Follow the instructions of local authorities.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Spain.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

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Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Embassy Madrid Calle Serrano, 75 28006 Madrid, Spain Telephone: (34) 91-587-2200 Emergency after-hours telephone: (34) 91-587-2200  Fax: (34) 91-587-2303 E-mail: [email protected]

U.S. Consulate General Barcelona Paseo Reina Elisenda de Montcada, 23 08034 Barcelona, Spain Telephone: (34) 93-280-2227 Emergency after-hours telephone: (34) 91-587-2200  Fax: (34) 93-280-6175 E-mail: [email protected]

U.S. Consular Agency Fuengirola (Málaga) Avenida Juan Gómez "Juanito", 8 Edificio Lucía 1º-C 29640 Fuengirola (Málaga), Spain Telephone: (34) 95-247-4891 Fax: (34) 95-246-5189 E-mail: [email protected]

U.S. Consular Agency Las Palmas Edificio Arca Calle Los Martinez de Escobar 3, Oficina 7 35007 Las Palmas, Gran Canaria, Spain Telephone: (34) 92-827-1259 Fax: (34) 92-822-5863 E-mail:   [email protected]

U.S. Consular Agency Palma de Mallorca Edificio Reina Constanza Porto Pi, 8, 9-D 07015 Palma, Islas Baleares, Spain Telephone: (34) 97-140-3707  Fax: (34) 97-140-3971 E-mail: [email protected]

U.S. Consular Agency Seville Plaza Nueva 8-8 duplicado 2nd Floor, Office E-2 No.4 41101 Sevilla, Spain Telephone: (34) 95-421-8751 Fax: (34) 95-422-0791 E-mail:   [email protected]

U.S. Consular Agency Valencia Doctor Romagosa 1, 2-J 46002 Valencia, Spain Telephone: (34) 96-351-6973 Fax: (34) 96-352-9565 E-mail:   [email protected]

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Spain for information on U.S.-Spain relations.  

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

U.S. citizens traveling to Spain are not subject to any COVID-19 entry restrictions.

Spain is a party to the  Schengen Agreement . This means that U.S. citizens may enter Spain for up to 90 days for tourism or business without a visa. Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the period of stay. You must have sufficient funds and a return airline ticket. Visit the  Embassy of Spain  website for the most current visa information.

Traveling Through Europe : If you are planning to visit, transit and/or travel through European countries, you should be familiar with the requirements of the Schengen Agreement. 

• Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the period of stay. If you plan on transiting a Schengen country, review our U.S. Travelers in Europe page .    
• You will need sufficient proof of funds and a return plane ticket .  
• For additional information about visas for the Schengen area, see the Schengen Visa page.

Students and athletes:  Students, prospective students, and athletes should visit the  Embassy of Spain  website for additional information on entry requirements. You should not travel to Spain as a student or for an athletic/study program without the appropriate Spanish visa. U.S. citizen students and athletes have been denied entry and held in immigration detention at Spanish airports awaiting return flights to the United States because they lacked the appropriate visa. If your coach or sponsoring program says that you do not require a visa to study, play for a sports team, or participate in a sports training program in Spain, you should confirm this information with the nearest Spanish consulate in the United States before you travel.

U.S. citizen minors living in Spain:  Spanish law mandates that all Spanish minors traveling internationally without their parents or legal guardians must have written notarized permission from a parent or guardian. The law also applies to foreign, minor residents if their country of nationality also requires parental permission. While U.S. law does not require minors traveling without a parent/guardian to have the parents’/guardians’ written permission, Spanish authorities and airlines have occasionally misinterpreted the law and stopped U.S. citizens minors from departing the country. Therefore, parents/legal guardians should consider preparing a notarized, written permission for their U.S. citizen minor children to travel abroad unaccompanied or with a third party.

HIV/AIDS restrictions: The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Spain.  

Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction , and customs regulations on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism:  Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on encouraging or conducting attacks worldwide, including within Europe. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to target crowds more effectively. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as: 

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists 
• Places of worship 
• Schools 
• Parks 
• Shopping malls and markets 
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)  

Spain’s open borders with its Western European neighbors allow the possibility for terrorists to enter and exit the country anonymously. Additionally, Spain’s enclaves in Melilla and Ceuta on the North African coast allow for entry into Spain from the African continent. Spain has taken robust actions to guard against terrorist attacks, including arrests of suspected extremists allegedly involved in terrorist plots. Credible information indicates terrorist groups continue to plot potential attacks in Europe, including Spain.

For more information, see our Terrorism page.  

Crime:  Pickpocketing and other minor crimes, such as theft, are very common in Spain including instances where the victim is purposefully distracted to facilitate the theft. Street crimes against U.S. citizens usually occur in  tourist areas, including airports, train stations, and both urban and beach destinations .

Violent crimes, including robberies, have also been reported. Some instances have required the victim to seek medical attention. Car break-ins are also frequent in Spain.

Use common sense, awareness and the same personal security measures you would normally use in any large city or tourist destination.

Keep track of your passport at all times, including on flights and other modes of transportation. There have been reports of passports being stolen on planes en route to Spain. Do not leave bags unattended. Keep them in sight and avoid placing passports, cash, cell phones, or other valuables in the outer pockets of backpacks or purses on tables or floors, grounds in public places. Do not leave bags slung over the backs of chairs, on hotel or store counters, on top of your suitcase or travel bag, or out of your physical control in hotel lobbies, car rental locations, train stations, restaurants, and other public places. Avoid carrying your passport unless needed for travel, especially in tourist areas. Instead, carry a photocopy or photo of your passport’s biographical information page and consider leaving your passport in a secure location, such as a hotel safe. Your passport will be required to check in into any hotel in Spain and may be required for trains or tourist sites.

Sexual Assault:  The U.S. Mission in Spain has received numerous reports of sexual assaults affecting U.S. citizens, especially younger travelers, students, and exchange teachers.

Navigating the Spanish criminal justice system after surviving a sexual assault has been difficult for many U.S. citizen victims, who report feeling judged and re-victimized throughout the very lengthy process.

Although it is not required, many U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault in Spain have found it helpful to hire a local attorney to be their advocate and defend their rights during any judicial process or use the help of the local Office of Victim’s Assistance. Information about the local victim’s assistance program is given out at the police station when the report is filed.

There have been numerous reports alleging sexual assaults against U.S. citizen students by Manuel Blanco Vela, a representative of a tour operator based in Seville, Spain. Conduct research online to determine who owns and operates tour companies to make informed choices.

Many sexual assaults occur at night or during the early morning hours. In most cases, assailants take advantage of alcohol or drugs to make victims more vulnerable.

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence should call the toll-free emergency number in Spain, 016, for assistance, and the U.S. Embassy in Madrid at (34) 91-587-2200 or U.S. Consulate General Barcelona at (+34) 93-280-2227. Note that the local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.

Victims of Crime:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence, sexual assault or other violent crimes are encouraged to report crimes to the local emergency services at 112 and contact the U.S. Embassy, Consulate, or consular agency for assistance . Note that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care  
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police 
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent 
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion 
• Provide a list of local attorneys  
• Provide information on  victim’s compensation programs in the United States
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution 
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home 
• Replace a stolen or lost passport 

Demonstrations  occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. 

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable, avoid areas around protests  and demonstrations .  
• Past demonstrations have turned violent.   
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories. 

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information.

Financial scams are prevalent in Spain. Beware of anyone asking for money, particularly people who establish a “romantic” relationship online or anyone who claims the Spanish authorities are asking them for money. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited emails and letters. Scammers almost always pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help. Common scams include:   

• People claiming to be U.S. military personnel
• Romance/Online dating 
• Money transfers 
• Grandparent/Relative targeting 
• Free Trip/Luggage 
• Lotteries 
• Inheritance notices 
• Work permits/Job offers 

Tourism: The tourism industry is generally regulated, and rules [with regards to best practices and safety inspections] are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage, and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities prior to practicing or operating a business. 

Furthermore, some violations of laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking illegal drugs in Spain are severe and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.

Most cities in Spain have banned the consumption of alcohol in the street, other than in registered street cafes and bars. You could be arrested or fined if you break the law.

Local police, sometimes dressed in plain clothes, can require you to produce identification to establish your identity upon request and detain you for further questioning. Carry a photocopy of your passport with you as proof of your identity. If you are stopped by someone who claims to be a plainclothes police officer, ask to see their law enforcement identification.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police to notify the U.S. Embassy Madrid or U.S. Consulate General Barcelona immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also have to pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Department of Justice website for more information. 

Faith-Based Travelers:  See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTQI+ Travelers:  There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTQI+ events in Spain. 

See our LGBTQI+ Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.  

Travelers with Disabilities: The law in Spain prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual or mental disabilities, and the law is enforced. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is as prevalent as in the United States. In general, public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure are accessible. Taxis that can accommodate wheelchairs are available, but usually must be booked in advance.

In historic areas and older areas, sidewalks can be narrow and have uneven surfaces. Take this into account when planning your visit.  There may be differences in small towns and villages, where accessibility may be more limited.

Rental, repair, replacement parts for aids/equipment/devices, or service providers, such as sign language interpreters or personal assistants are widely available in Spain.

Students:  Follow the tips below and exercise caution and good judgment to make your study-abroad experience a positive and safe one. If you are coming to Spain to participate in a sports program, please check with the  Embassy of Spain  that you have the correct visa.

Do your research before contracting a tour operator or other service provider, including coaches and organizers of sports camps, schools, and training centers.

Exercise caution when agreeing to an internship or to serve as a recruiter for a specific organization or company. Most arrests, accidents, and violent crimes U.S. citizens suffer in Spain involve excessive alcohol. Drink in moderation and stay in a group of friends when in clubs, bars, or traveling.

See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers : The U.S. Mission in Spain has received numerous reports of sexual assaults affecting U.S. citizens, especially younger travelers, students, and exchange teachers. Please see more information under Safety and Security.  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

Good medical care is available in Spain. However, regulations regarding medications vary from those in the United States. Spanish regulations do not permit the international shipment of medication . Do not ship medication from the United States to Spain . Spanish customs authorities will reject and return to the shipper medication mailed from the United States. This may cause a significant delay in receiving your medications. The U.S. Embassy cannot help you retrieve medications stopped by Spanish customs.

Medications requiring prescriptions in the United States also require a local doctor’s prescription in Spain. In some instances, a medicine prescribed in the United States will not have a local equivalent. It is important that travelers research this on the  European Agency for Medication  website prior to travel.

For emergency services in Spain, dial 112. You may ask for an English-speaking attendant.

Ambulance services are widely available. 

We do not pay medical bills . Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance. Medical care is not free in Spain. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility. Lack of payment may bar future travel to Spain.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See  our webpage  for more information on insurance overseas. Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas. We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation. 

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the embassy to ensure the medication is legal in Spain. 

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)  

Air Quality:  Visit  AirNow Department of State  for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

The U.S. Embassy maintains  a list of doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic. 

Health facilities in general:

• Adequate health facilities are available throughout the country. Private hospitals usually require advance payment or proof of adequate insurance or funds before admitting a patient.  Medical staff may speak little or no English. Patients may be asked to bear costs for transfer to or between hospitals. 
• Patients have to pay their medical treatment in public hospitals.

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery:

• U.S. citizens have suffered serious complications or died during or after having cosmetic or other elective surgery.
• Medical tourism is a rapidly growing industry. People seeking health care overseas should understand that medical systems operate differently from those in the United States and are not subject to the same rules and regulations. Anyone interested in traveling for medical purposes should consult with their local physician before traveling and visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information on Medical Tourism.

Pharmaceuticals: U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit the  U.S. Customs and Border Protection  and the  Food and Drug Administration  websites for more information.

Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy: If you are considering traveling to Spain to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please see our  ART and Surrogacy Abroad page . 

Surrogacy is illegal in Spain and subject to complex local regulation. 

Adventure Travel: Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about  Adventure Travel .

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety : Road conditions in Spain can differ significantly from those in the United States. Drivers and pedestrians should exercise increased caution as traffic in Madrid and Barcelona is often faster-paced than in the United States and can be unnerving because of unfamiliar signs and traffic lights and different driving habits, including motorbikes weaving between traffic lanes.

Obey the traffic light located at your stop line, as there are separate traffic lights for each side of the intersection. Be alert when driving at night in urban areas; you may encounter drivers or pedestrians under the influence of alcohol.

Night driving in isolated rural areas can be dangerous because of farm animals and poorly marked roads.

Rural traffic is generally heavier in July and August as well as during the Christmas and Easter seasons.

Emergency services, including roadside assistance, are plentiful, competent, and can be easily accessed by dialing 112 from any phone.

Traffic Laws: You must obtain an International Driving Permit prior to your arrival if you plan to drive in Spain. The permits are only valid for one year.

It is illegal to rent a vehicle if you don’t have an International Driving Permit. Your rental car may be impounded, and you will be required to pay a fine if stopped by the police.

It is against the law to use a mobile phone without a hands-free device while driving. There is a €300 fine for violating this regulation, and you may also lose your license.

All drivers and passengers are required to buckle up (even in taxis and in the backseat) and wear a reflective vest if they need to stop on the roadside. A reflective triangle warning sign is also mandatory if you stop on the roadside.

You must have liability insurance to operate any car or motorcycle.

If you are stopped by the Spanish National Police or the Guardia Civil, they may levy fines on the spot and issue a receipt for payment. This ensures that foreigners pay their fines while still in Spain.

Public Transportation:  Public transportation in large Spanish cities is generally excellent.

Only use clearly identified cabs, ensure that taxi drivers always switch on the meter (except for fixed-fare trips originating to and from the Madrid airport), and ask for a receipt.

Private transportation companies (such as Uberor Cabify) are often used in Madrid and Barcelona but check private transportation websites for operating status before arrival.

Official taxis to and from the Madrid airport to the city center charge a €30 flat rate.  Official taxis to and from the Barcelona airport to the cruise ship terminal charge a €39 flat rate.

Rail service is comfortable and reliable but varies in quality and speed. Intercity buses are usually comfortable and inexpensive.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information. 

Aviation Safety Oversight:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of Spain’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Spain’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page . 

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to Spain should also check for  U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the   U.S. Coast Guard homeport website  and the  NGA broadcast warnings .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Spain . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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Foreign Office issues Spain travel warning as the country brings back face mask rules

The UK's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has issued advice for Brits who are soon to head to Spain after a surge in flu and coronavirus cases led the Spanish government to reintroduce face mask rules

• 14:19, 11 Jan 2024

Brits are being issued with a travel warning by the UK government if they're heading on Spain holidays .

This week the holiday hotspot became the first country in Europe to reintroduce face mask requirements when entering certain buildings like hospitals and health centres as coronavirus and influenza cases rose.

As a result, the UK's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has issued advice for Brits who are soon to head to Spain.

The updated Health advice reads: "Due to an increase in respiratory infections such as flu and Covid, you may be required to wear a face mask when using healthcare facilities such as doctors surgeries, hospitals or pharmacies. Specific rules on the use of face masks may vary by region.

"You should refer to the advice of local authorities in your destination and ensure you are aware of the specific measures in place on how best to protect yourself and others."

Spain's new face mask rules only apply in certain settings and currently you generally won't need a face covering when out and about in public.

It was reported this week that the new JN.1 variant has become the most dominant strain of coronavirus on the planet, as more than 10,000 deaths from the virus were logged last month.

The strain is a mutation from Omicron which ran riot in Christmas 2021. Experts believe the current wave of the virus has been fuelled by the new variant along with festive socialising. It is feared JN.1 could hit an all-time high in the UK in as little as a week if numbers continue to soar.

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the World Health Organization director-general, told a press conference in Geneva the JN.1 variant was now the most prominent in the world. He added he is "certain" cases are on the rise in other places which have not been reported.

Calling on world governments to boost surveillance, he added: “Although 10,000 deaths a month is far less than the peak of the pandemic, this level of preventable deaths is not acceptable.”

Maria Van Kerkhove, technical lead at WHO for COVID-19, added there has been an increase in respiratory diseases across the globe due to the coronavirus but also flu, rhinovirus and pneumonia. She said: “We expect those trends to continue into January through the winter months in the northern hemisphere.”

Last week, scientists said Covid cases may reach new record highs in the UK by mid-January after JN.1 became dominant over Christmas. The data was drawn from the latest ONS and UK Health Security Agency winter infection survey.

The research, published on December 21, estimated on December 13, 2.54million people had Covid. That was more than double the amount seen at the start of December. Another warning said more than 100,000 Brits could develop Long Covid in coming weeks.

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Spain travel advice.

Spain Travel Requirement Overview - including the Canary and Balearic Islands

Entry requirements differ by country. The Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) issues country specific travel advice including Health, Visa and Vaccination requirements.

If you are planning to visit Spain please read the FCDO advice available here https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/spain

Entry requirements:

• Entry requirements for children: No specific requirements for children and young people.

Passport validity:

• Your passport must be issued less than 10 years before the date you enter the country and valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave. Follow the Schengen area passport requirements .

Visa requirements:

• General: UK nationals can travel to Schengen area countries, including Spain, for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa for tourism, family visits, business meetings, cultural or sports events, or short-term studies or training.
• e-Visa requirements: Not applicable for UK nationals.
• Visa on arrival: Not applicable for UK nationals.

Travel forms:

• Spain does not require proof of vaccination, a negative test result, or a COVID-19 recovery certificate for the majority of travelers, regardless of vaccination status. However, there are some specific requirements for travelers from China (see below).

COVID requirements:

• From 3 January 2023, Spain reinstated mandatory COVID-19 vaccination and testing requirements for all passengers arriving from China. Visual and temperature checks and possible diagnostic tests are required. Children under 12 years old and passengers transiting airside for 24 hours or less are exempt. Further information can be found on the Ministry of Health website .
• For travelers from China: Unvaccinated passengers need to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test; and vaccinated passengers should check their vaccination certificate meets the requirements on the Ministry of Health website .

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Please note that this information is for British Passport holders only. If you hold an Irish passport then please visit the Department of Foreign Affairs for travel advice

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Foreign Office issues warning to Brits if you're going to Spain on holiday

One that will matter to a big chunk of people travelling from the uk to spain.

Tom Earnshaw

The UK government has issued a warning when it comes to Brits heading overseas to Spain. And it's one that could cost you dearly if you don't pay attention.

Changes in official government advice if you're heading to Spain were published today (29 May) by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

The Foreign Office regularly reviews official government advice when it comes to Brits heading to every corner of the globe. This includes the likes of Australia .

And it is not the first piece of updated advice the Foreign Office has put out there this year about Spain , with a fresh passport warning issued just weeks ago .

Official guidance is updated often and can be relatively minor. But it also includes significant updates regarding warnings and insurance problems.

Entry requirements are also kept up to date, so it's pretty important to check if you're not sure.

Updated travel advice for Spain

Today, the Foreign Office updated its safety and security information when it comes to Brits heading to Spain .

It's not the first warning issued for Spanish travel in recent weeks, with massive rule changes also brought in that massively alters why some people head abroad in the first place.

The new update concerns car safety requirements that if not obeyed, can get you in trouble with the law.

In particular, it concerns car child safety requirements.

What does it say?

"Seatbelts are compulsory for all passengers in the front and back seats," the Foreign Office writes.

"Children under 1.35m in height must use an approved child safety seat secured on the back seat.

"Children are only permitted to travel in the front seat of the car if the rear seats are already occupied by other children or if the vehicle does not have rear seats."

There's also advice on what you have to do if you're hiring a motor .

It says: "Car hire agencies can provide child seats, so let them know you need one when you reserve the car.

"Incorrect installation of a child seat or not wearing a seatbelt can be considered a serious offence and met with fines.

"It is illegal to use a mobile phone when driving, even if you have pulled over to the side of the road. You must be completely away from the road.

"Using an earpiece is also illegal. Only completely hands-free units are allowed."

In Spain, the police can give you on-the-spot fines for a variety of driving offences including speeding. If you accept the fine and pay within 20 days, it will be reduced by 50%.

Topics:  Travel , UK News , World News , Europe , Holiday , Driving , Cars

Tom joined LADbible in 2024, specialising in SEO and trending content. He moved to the company from Reach plc where he enjoyed spells as a content editor and senior reporter for one of the country's most-read local news brands, LancsLive. When he's not in work, Tom spends his adult life as a suffering Manchester United supporter after a childhood filled with trebles and Premier League titles. You can't have it all forever, I suppose.

@ TREarnshaw

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General election latest: Minister hangs up on Sky's Sam Coates after being told poll has predicted he'll lose his seat

A YouGov poll has predicted an enormous majority for Labour - and several big names Tories to lose their seats. One of them, Grant Shapps, hung up on our deputy political editor Sam Coates after being told live on the phone.

Monday 3 June 2024 18:29, UK

• General Election 2024

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Election news

• Bulletin: Catch up on the main news from the campaign trail
• Labour set for biggest majority in 100 years - YouGov poll
• Revealed: The Tory big beasts who could lose their seats
• Farage to stand at general election | Taking over as Reform leader
• Starmer 'prepared to use nuclear weapons' if needed
• Tories pledge to protect 'biological sex' as characteristic
• Be in the audience for our election leaders event
• Live reporting by Tim Baker and Brad Young

Expert analysis

• Rob Powell: Farage U-turn is a really significant development
• Adam Boulton: 'Starmtroopers' are purging Labour

Election essentials

• Trackers: Who's leading polls? | Is PM keeping promises?
• Follow Sky's politics podcasts: Electoral Dysfunction | Politics At Jack And Sam's
• Read more: Who is standing down? | Key seats to watch | How to register to vote | What counts as voter ID? | Check if your constituency is changing | Your essential guide to election lingo | Sky's election night plans

It's just about dinner time - and wow have we had a busy day today.

So whether you are making your way home, thinking about dinner, or only just heard there was a general election on, here is today's main news:

• A YouGov poll predicted Labour will win a supermajority of 194 seats - with the Conservatives routed to just 140 MPs;
• Tory ministers are among those who could lose their seat - including the defence secretary, Grant Shapps, who hung up on our deputy political editor Sam Coates when he was told live on air ;
• Just before this poll was published, Nigel Farage announced he was standing to be an MP for Reform UK - U-turning on his previous stance of not contesting;
• As political correspondent Rob Powell says, Mr Farage doesn't just have his eye on this election but the years ahead ;
• This morning, Labour  was pitching itself as the "party of defence"   as it pledged to build new nuclear submarines;
• And the Conservatives were campaigning on reforming the Equalities Act, including wanting to protect single sex toilets;
• Equalities minister Kemi Badenoch also said trans athletes may have to compete with their biological sex ;
• In slightly lighter news, the prime minister revealed his preferred Nando's order - with a surprise inclusion in the sides .
• Elsewhere, the SNP said there was no need for the UK to have a nuclear deterrent , in response to the Labour announcement;
• The Liberal Democrats sabotaged Rishi Sunak as he held a campaign event;
• Meanwhile, political correspondent Serena Barker-Singh outlined the difficulties facing Sir Keir Starmer over Jeremy Corbyn; 

Here are a couple of other stories that may interest you:

Our essential political podcast,  Politics At Jack And Sam's , is going out every week day through the election campaign to bring a short burst of everything you need to know about the day ahead as this election unfolds - here is today's edition .

Tap here to follow Politics At Jack At Sam's wherever you get your podcasts .

Stick with us for all the latest throughout the afternoon.

Patrick English, an expert from YouGov, has spoken to Sophy Ridge about the results of his organisation's poll.

If you missed it, it's predicting Sir Keir Starmer will become prime minister with a majority of 194 seats ( read more ).

It would be a "historic result", says Mr English

Though he notes developments like the announcement of Nigel Farage as a candidate today ( read more here ) - not account for in the polling - will have an impact on the results.

He also highlights the scale of the analysis - with almost 60,000 people having spoken to YouGov in the last week.

And the views of these people lead YouGov to think there will be a "supermajority".

The Conservatives would crash to a "terrible defeat" in the kind of result "we've not seen in British politics for a long, long time".

He notes the impact not just of a Labour revival in the Red Wall, but Reform in other Leave-voting areas and the Lib Dems in traditionally safe Tory seats in the south of England.

Our deputy political editor Sam Coates has a stacked contacts book - and was interrupted on air just now by none other than the defence secretary, Grant Shapps. 

The timing couldn't have been better - it came just as Sam was reporting on a YouGov poll predicting a huge majority for Labour and several Tory big beasts losing their seats, including Mr Shapps. 

"Hello Grant Shapps, you're live on Sky News - I'm in the studio with Sophy Ridge," said Sam. 

He revealed he was on course to lose his seat - and Mr Shapps promptly hung up. 

Fear not, we'll be hearing from him properly later - he's a guest on tonight's Politics Hub With Sophy Ridge from 7pm.

Nigel Farage's bid to become MP for Clacton, Essex, "could not have been much worse for the Conservatives" and may have a significant impact beyond the election, says political correspondent  Rob Powell.

His profile "is only bad for the Tories, and frankly, only good for Labour".

But Mr Farage appeared to have his eyes not only on the next four weeks when announcing his candidacy, but on the next five years.

Should Labour win, and the Tories endure a "crushing defeat", but Farage himself ends up in parliament, there could be a "loud and controversial, but also influential, voice on the right of politics".

That could then end up shaping what the Tory party ends up looking like post-election, potentially shifting further to the right.

Farage's influence set to grow

As for the next four weeks, Mr Farage's announcement will increase his influence during the election campaign.

"Not only is he announcing that he will run for a Westminster seat, he is announcing that he will take over as Reform leader as well, which clearly gives him a lot more media exposure," says Rob.

"It means he will be involved in debates and in people's newspapers and on people's TV screens.

"I think this is a really significant development."

With YouGov predicting a rout of the Conservative Party, it is worth digging into which famous faces could be finished.

They could follow in the footsteps of Michael Portillo, who was famously unseated in 1997.

He was a Tory cabinet minister, beaten by Labour's candidate in Enfield as Tony Blair swept to power.

Below is who is at risk this time:

• Jeremy Hunt, the chancellor;
• Grant Shapps, the defence secretary;
• Penny Mordaunt, the Commons leader;
• Victoria Prentis, the attorney general;
• Alex Chalk, the justice secretary;
• David TC Davies, the Welsh secretary;
• Johnny Mercer, the veterans minister;
• Steve Baker, the Northern Ireland minister;
• Bim Afolami, a Treasury minister;
• Lee Rowley, a housing minister.

Our deputy political editor  Sam Coates   takes us through the potential results:

In YouGov's own words - this major poll (see previous post) on the outcome of the election is not a prediction, but an estimate.

So what makes it different to the plethora we've had already? 

Well, this one is done with the MRP method.

MRP stands for the somewhat word salad-y "Multi-level Regression and Post-stratification".

In simple terms, this is how it works:

• YouGov asks lots of people, across the country, how they intend to vote. It also asks them questions about who they are so they can paint a picture of the voter;
• The pollsters use these pictures to know which characteristics match with someone voting a certain way - this is the regression bit;
• YouGov then combines this with a second piece of information it has - a breakdown of all the constituencies and the kinds of people who live in each one;
• These portraits of how people vote - based on where they live, gender, age and many other factors - are matched with the descriptions of all the different constituencies to produce an estimate for how each seat intends to vote. This is the stratification;
• From there, YouGov provides the estimate of how the general election could turn out.

A huge number of people are asked for their opinions to build up the pictures used in MRP.

Sometimes it can be close to 20,000 people being asked.

By Sam Coates , deputy political editor

Keir Starmer could be heading to Downing Street with a majority of 194 seats - the biggest for 100 years - according to the first polling projection by YouGov since the election was called.

The poll has Labour on 422 seats, up 221 compared to the 2019 results based on new constituency boundaries. 

It also projects a Tory wipeout in large parts of the country, a Lib Dem surge, and the Scottish National Party losing over half its seats in Scotland, if the election was being held right now.

Today marks the first of three polling projections by YouGov, as part of a joint campaign with Sky News.

The projection shows an historic Labour landslide bigger than Tony Blair achieved in 1997, with the party getting the highest number of seats of any party at an election in history since Stanley Baldwin won a majority of 208 in 1924. 

It would be the highest number of Labour seats on record, and a much bigger majority than anything else since the Second World War. 

A 194 majority for Starmer would dwarf Blair's 1997 landslide majority of 179 and Margaret Thatcher who got 144 in 1983. 

Read the full story below:

Our political correspondent  Gurpreet Narwan asks Nigel Farage if he thinks he is bigger than the Reform party.

She also asks whether his decision to stand reflects he is unhappy with Reform's campaign start.

He rolls his eyes before saying the Conservatives' attempts to "crush the Reform vote" with policies like national service hasn't worked.

"Given the onslaught, we think we're in a pretty good shape," he says.

He says he is "pretty bullish about this".

Mr Farage does not answer Gurpreet's first question.

Another journalist asks whether if he does not hit his target - more than 4.5 million votes - he will resign. 

"If I don't get that result, I'll go down the pub and have a think about it, alright, and be very disappointed."

Channel 4 asks Mr Farage if he has lied by saying he was not standing and now doing so.

The new Reform leader says he did not mislead anyone, and that he had said previously he was planning to stand, but only ruled himself out when Rishi Sunak called a surprisingly early election.

He says: "I haven't been dishonest with anybody.

"I've changed my mind.

"I've not been dishonest with anybody, least of all myself."

Asked whether he sought Donald Trump's advice, Nigel Farage says "the Donald has other things to be dealing with".

"He's been rather busy - including joining TikTok," he adds.

He says Donald Trump's conviction in New York last week made no difference to his own decision to stand.

"I've now no doubt he'll win the presidential election - but America becomes ever more divided and the whole thing becomes ever more worrying."

Mr Farage is also asked to address the fact Reform is already fielding a candidate in Clacton. 

"He knew for many months that this was a possibility. For many, many months, this was a possibility. Not a probability, but a possibility," he says.

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