As millions of British holidaymakers gear up for a Spanish summer escape, a new rule introduced by the Spanish government could leave some facing fines of up to €6,900 (around £5,992) — or worse, denied entry at the border.
The regulation, quietly rolled out this summer, requires all non-EU travellers — including British citizens — to carry proof of comprehensive private travel insurance before entering Spain. And the implications are serious.
What Changed & Why?
Previously, UK citizens could rely on GHIC or EHIC cards to access emergency medical services in EU countries. However, Spanish immigration officers are now enforcing a mandatory requirement for private travel insurance with specific coverage criteria.
“The GHIC card is not a substitute for comprehensive insurance,” the Spanish Interior Ministry stated. “Tourists must be prepared to cover the full cost of medical repatriation or hospitalisation in case of emergency.”
This shift aims to protect the country’s public healthcare system, which has seen a spike in unpaid bills from uninsured foreign tourists over the past two years, particularly in high-traffic regions like Costa del Sol, Canary Islands, and Balearic Islands.
What Type of Insurance Do You Need?
To avoid penalties or refusal of entry, your policy must include:
- Full medical coverage, including emergency hospitalization
- Medical repatriation back to the UK
- Coverage for pre-existing conditions
- No or low policy excess, as required under Spanish legal guidelines
- Proof of policy in English or Spanish
This applies at airports, cruise terminals, train stations, or any other international point of entry.
What Are British Travellers Saying?
Many travellers are only just becoming aware of the new rule. A July 2025 survey by TravelWise UK revealed that 1 in 3 British tourists had no idea the requirement existed, and 42% believed their GHIC cards were still valid as a full backup.
“It’s incredibly frustrating. I booked my holiday months ago and only now found out I could be fined for something I wasn’t told about,” said Angela Myers, 28, from Leeds, who recently returned from Alicante.
Several travel agencies have also updated their pre-departure advisories, warning passengers to “print their insurance policy and keep it handy at all times.”
What Happens If You Don’t Comply?
- Entry may be refused at border control
- You may be fined up to €6,900 (£5,992)
- You may be denied boarding at your UK airport if airlines are instructed to verify insurance before check-in
Spanish border officers are reportedly performing random spot checks — especially at Barcelona El Prat, Madrid-Barajas, and Malaga–Costa del Sol airports.
Expert Advice: Don’t Cut Corners
Insurance experts warn against assuming all policies meet Spain’s new standards.
“Many cheap travel insurance plans sold online exclude repatriation or serious pre-existing condition coverage,” said Lucy Merritt from Global TravelCare. “Always read the fine print and confirm compliance with Spanish law.”
Saga, a popular travel insurer for over-50s, noted that their plans automatically include all required features. But budget travelers should double-check low-cost insurance providers.
What Else You Might Be Asked at Spanish Borders
Besides travel insurance, non-EU travellers (including Brits) may need to show:
- Proof of accommodation
- A return or onward ticket
- Evidence of sufficient financial means for the duration of stay
- No more than 90 days stay in a 180-day period
Although enforcement varies by location, Spanish border agents have the right to request all of the above, and deny entry if conditions are not met.
Broader Impacts Across Europe
Spain isn’t the only country enforcing tougher travel policies. Other EU nations, including France and Italy, are also reviewing post-Brexit entry procedures for UK travellers. While no fines have yet matched Spain’s €6,900 level, stricter scrutiny is becoming the norm.
Final Travel Checklist for Brits Heading to Spain:
Buy private travel insurance with full medical and repatriation cover
Carry a printed copy of your policy
Double-check GHIC/EHIC coverage limitations
Keep proof of hotel and return flight
Don’t overstay the 90-day rule
Be ready for random document checks at the airport
