Spain, France and Greece Travel Rules: Brits May Need Extra Documents
If you are planning a summer holiday to popular European destinations such as Spain, France, Portugal, Greece or Italy, it is crucial to be aware of lesser-known regulations that could cause problems at border control. Since Brexit, British travellers have faced new restrictions when visiting Europe, including changes to passport validity rules. Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your stay and must have been issued within the last ten years. Additionally, the new Entry/Exit System (EES) will require UK holidaymakers to provide biometric data when entering an EU country.
However, it is not just your passport that matters. Britons may also need to present several other documents at popular holiday destinations, and failing to do so could result in being refused entry. The Foreign Office has issued travel guidance for countries including Spain and France, highlighting that you may be asked for a return or onward ticket, proof of travel insurance, accommodation confirmation (such as a hotel booking), or evidence that you have sufficient funds for your trip. Requirements vary slightly between destinations—for example, Portugal does not require travel insurance—but the general rules are similar.
Spain and France additionally require a specific document if you are staying with friends or relatives. Obtaining this document can take time, so it is advisable to arrange it several weeks in advance to avoid last-minute stress.
Spain Travel Rules
Border control officials in Spain, including the Canary Islands and Balearic Islands, may ask you to show:
- A return or onward ticket
- Proof of travel insurance
- Sufficient funds for your stay (the amount varies depending on your accommodation)
- A hotel booking confirmation or proof of address if staying at your own property
- An invitation or proof of address if staying with third parties, friends or family, such as a ‘carta de invitacion’ completed by your hosts
Portugal Travel Rules
Border control officials in Portugal may ask you to show:
- An onward or return ticket
- Proof that you have enough money for your visit
France Travel Rules
Border control officials in France may ask you to show:
- Proof of travel insurance to cover any emergency costs
- Proof that you have enough money for your stay
- Proof of accommodation
- A return or onward ticket
- A welcome invitation (‘attestation d’accueil’) from your host, which the French resident must obtain from their local mayor’s office and send to you before you enter France
Greece Travel Rules
Border control officials in Greece, including the Greek islands, may ask you to show:
- A return or onward ticket
- Proof that you have enough money for your stay
Italy Travel Rules
Border control officials in Italy may ask you to show:
- Proof of accommodation, such as a hotel booking confirmation or proof of address for your own property
- Proof of travel insurance
- A return or onward ticket
- Proof that you have enough money for your stay (the amount varies depending on your accommodation)
Being prepared with the correct documents will help ensure a smooth entry into your holiday destination.
