Spain Finally Relaxes its Covid Entry Regulations

Spain has confirmed a long-awaited relaxation of Covid entrance regulations, allowing unvaccinated adults to enter with a negative test.

The move, announced on Saturday, means that UK nationals who have not received the Covid vaccine can now travel to Spain with a negative PCR or antigen test.

Previously, UK visitors were only permitted to enter Spain with vaccine certification or proof of viral recovery, a requirement that had been extended until 15th June.

However, beginning 21st May, all international visitors must present one of the following documents:

• Vaccination certificate that meets the standards of the government
• A certificate of negative testing (PCR or similar)
• Certificate of recovery issued at least 11 days following positive testing

According to Spanish Tourism Minister Reyes Maroto, the “new phase of the pandemic” allowed the country to loosen standards by equating non-EU travelers with those from the EU and Schengen-associated countries.

Maroto continued: “This is excellent news, much awaited by the tourism sector, which facilitates the arrival of tourists from outside the EU with a view to guaranteeing safe journeys during the high season.

“Spain is becoming one of the most desired destinations in the world.”

Spain accepts verification of Covid-19 immunization record from the UK, either online or as a printed download.

PCR testing must be performed 72 hours before departure to Spain, and antigen tests must be performed 24 hours before departure.

Certificates of recovery will be valid for 180 days from the date of the positive test.

Children under the age of 12 are not required to present any form of certificate.

The loosening of limitations, according to Advantage Travel Partnership CEO Julia Lo Bue-Said, is “extremely positive news just ahead of the May half-term and peak season.”

She described it as “very positive” for vacationers and the tourist business, telling the BBC: “However, it is disappointing that Spain has not gone further and removed the need for pre-arrival tests for unvaccinated travellers given the minimal benefit these tests have for public health.

“Consumers want to travel with ease and if destinations prohibit this, then they will go elsewhere.”

According to an Abta spokesperson: “Spain is the most popular holiday destination for UK holidaymakers, so it’s great that this relaxation of its travel rules will enable all travellers, regardless of their vaccination status, to enjoy a break there this summer.

“There are still Covid-19 entry requirements in place, so we’d encourage anyone who is thinking of booking a trip to Spain to book with an Abta travel agent or tour operator who can help them get their documentation together.”