Travel Advisory: Self-Isolation Requirements from Spain to the UK

Spain and its islands have now been added to the UK’s quarantine list. Consequently, travelers arriving from these areas into England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland will have to self-isolate for two weeks. While advisories were already in place against non-essential travel to mainland Spain, the UK government has now also warned against travel to the Balearic Islands and the Canary Islands.

The decision to add Spain to the quarantine list follows concerns about a second wave of COVID-19 infections within the country. Consequently, holidaymakers returning to the UK must now self-isolate immediately. Upon arrival, travelers must proceed straight home or to a suitable accommodation to begin their 14-day self-isolation, which takes effect from the day after their return. During this period, leaving home for work, exercise, or socializing is not permitted, with exceptions made for medical appointments, court attendance, or funerals. Grocery shopping for essentials is allowed if no one else can assist.

Due to this new quarantine requirement, several travel companies and airlines have canceled trips to the Spanish islands, particularly to Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Mallorca, Menorca, and Ibiza for the foreseeable future. Nevertheless, scheduled flights returning to the UK from these destinations remain unaffected. Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab stated during an interview with Sky News that the rationale for this decision stems from a “big jump” in COVID-19 cases throughout Spain. He noted that without this measure, the UK risks experiencing a second wave of infections, potentially necessitating another lockdown.

Lockdowns are loosening globally as the world adapts to a new normal. Stay updated on how COVID-19 is reshaping travel.