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Updated: Spain relaxes entry rules for unvaccinated arrivals

NOTE: This story has been superseded after the Spanish National Tourist Office in London announced it had interpreted official guidance incorrectly. It subsequently apologised and confirmed that rules have not been relaxed for unvaccinated arrivals.


Spain has relaxed its entry rules, so that unvaccinated UK tourists can now visit as long as they show evidence of a negative Covid test or proof of recovery.

They can show a PCR result, with the test taken within 72 hours of departure, or a rapid test within 24 hours.

It applies to travellers over the age of 12 and means holidaymakers can enter with a certificate of vaccination; or proof of a negative test; or proof of recovery.

Julia Lo Bue-Said, chief executive of the Advantage Travel Partnership, tweeted about the change, which comes into force on Wednesday (April 6), saying it is a “step in the right direction”.

To count as fully vaccinated, visitors must have received both doses of a two-dose vaccine or one dose of a one-dose vaccine at least 14 days prior to arrival in Spain.

If more than 270 days have passed since the final dose, certification of a booster vaccination is also required, except for teenagers aged 12 to 17 (inclusive).

Children under 12 years old are exempt when travelling with an adult. This new legislation is for UK travellers aged 12 and above before their arrival to the whole of Spain, including the Balearic Islands and the Canary Islands.

Furthermore, children under 12 and those travelling to Spain with an EU Covid passport or equivalent (including NHS Covid travel pass) no longer need to complete the Health Control Form (FCS in Spanish) before arrival.

Those without an EU Covid pass or equivalent must complete the Health Control Form to show evidence of their vaccinations, test certificate or certificate of recovery. This can be completed via Spain Travel Health (SpTH).


NOTE: This story has been superseded after the Spanish National Tourist Office in London announced it had interpreted official guidance incorrectly. It subsequently apologised and confirmed that rules have not been relaxed for unvaccinated arrivals.

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