UK tourists planning a trip to Spain should be aware of three major rule changes that have come into effect in recent months. These updates affect pet travel, border entry procedures, and required travel documents. With over 19 million UK visitors to Spain last year, staying informed is essential to avoid travel disruption.
Passports for Pets
As of last month, most EU pet passports issued to British residents are no longer valid for entering the European Union. This change impacts dogs, cats, and ferrets. Instead, pet owners must obtain an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) from a vet no more than 10 days before travel. The AHC can be used for up to six months for onward travel within the EU and for re-entering Britain, provided rabies vaccination remains valid. A new certificate is required for each journey to the EU. Owners need written authorization if someone else accompanies the pet, and the person must travel within five days of the owner.
Entry/Exit System (EES)
On April 10, 2026, the EU's Entry/Exit System was fully rolled out across airports in Spain and other Schengen countries. UK travelers must now create a digital record and provide biometric data, including fingerprints and a photograph, upon first arrival. The registration is valid for three years. However, initial rollouts have caused delays. Spanish airports are working to ease congestion by redirecting families with young children and passengers with reduced mobility to old passport-stamping lanes when digital queues exceed 25 minutes, and by staggering flight arrivals.
Travel Documents
UK tourists can visit Spain visa-free for up to 90 days in any 180-day period for tourism, family visits, business meetings, or cultural events. The Foreign Office advises ensuring the entire visit stays within this limit, as overstaying can lead to a three-year Schengen ban. At border control, travelers may need to show a return or onward ticket, proof of travel insurance, sufficient funds for the stay, hotel booking confirmation or proof of address, and an invitation letter if staying with friends or family.
