Current Travel Rules for Spain: What Unvaccinated Travelers Need to Know
The Spanish tourism board in the UK has confirmed that unvaccinated British travelers cannot travel to Spain after a recent announcement was made in error. This clarification is crucial for anyone considering travel plans to this popular destination.
Recent Miscommunication Regarding Entry Rules
On Wednesday, the Spanish tourist board initially indicated that unvaccinated travelers could potentially enter Spain by providing a negative COVID-19 test prior to the Easter break. This statement was considered a “step in the right direction,” which led to widespread media reports interpreting the new rules.
However, by Wednesday evening, the tourist board retracted the announcement, clarifying that current restrictions prohibit unvaccinated British travelers from entering Spain, regardless of negative test results. Exceptions exist for individuals who have had a recovery certificate issued within the last six months or for children between the ages of 12 and 17.
Pedro Medina, deputy director of the Spanish tourist office in the UK, stated: “We apologize unreservedly for the miscommunication earlier today which was due to a misunderstanding of the new entry requirements.”
Current Rules for Traveling to Spain
Travelers from the EU or Schengen Zone: You must present either a vaccination certificate, a recovery certificate, or a negative PCR test (conducted within 72 hours prior to arrival) or an antigen test (conducted within 24 hours). Notably, children under 12 are exempt from these regulations.
Travelers from Countries Outside the EU/Schengen Zone: This includes the UK, the US, and Canada. You must be fully vaccinated, show a certificate of recovery (from within the last six months), or provide a valid essential reason for entering Spain.
Vaccination Requirements
Individuals over 18 who received their last dose of the primary vaccinations more than 270 days (nine months) ago must have received a booster to be deemed fully vaccinated. Additionally, at least 14 days must pass since the last vaccination dose. For those aged 12 to 17, proof of a complete primary vaccination course is sufficient.
Unvaccinated teenagers (ages 12 to 17) traveling from non-EU/Schengen countries like the UK and US are allowed entry if they present a negative test result.
Future Relaxation of Entry Rules
Many countries in Europe, including Denmark, Ireland, Iceland, and the UK, have abolished all COVID-19 entry requirements. Conversely, Spain’s entry rules remain in effect until at least April 30, 2022, with no current indication from the government regarding future changes to these regulations.
