Brits warned of Spain travel rules that could see them turned away at the border

An overhead shot of a beach with golden sands and crystal-clear waters
Tourists enjoy Playa es Bol Nou beach in Ibiza, Spain. -Credit:Getty Images


Spain has introduced a travel rule that could see UK tourists turned away at the border if they fail to meet a new financial requirement. British holidaymakers must now prove they have sufficient funds for their stay, with Spanish authorities demanding proof of €113.40 (£97) per day.

This rule applies to all UK visitors, whether heading to mainland Spain or the islands such as the Canaries and Balearics. The measure is in place to ensure visitors can support themselves during their trip and have the means to return home.

The enforcement of this rule has sparked reactions from potential visitors, with one Brit expressing their frustration online. They commented: "If the country would stand together and boycott Spain in favour of other Mediterranean countries, within three months they would be begging us to come back. 17 million visitors is a lot of money to the Spanish economy."

Get the latest news straight to your phone by joining us on WhatsApp

Most visitors to Spain won't be asked to prove they have enough money, with the majority waved through without their paperwork being scrutinised. Many countries don't require proof of sufficient funds but may ask travellers if they have a return plane, ferry or train ticket to ensure they plan to return home.

You can enter countries including Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany and France without proof of a booked plane ticket. The documents you need depend on your country of origin and the purpose of your visit, reports the Mirror.

It's always wise to check the official website of your destination or consult the embassy or consulate before you travel to ensure you have the correct paperwork.

While Spain specifies an exact amount of money visitors must prove they have, other nations have more vague rules. France, for example, requires holidaymakers to have 'means of subsistence'.

"You need to provide an acceptable proof of funds that shows your financial ability to travel and bear expenditures during your stay in the Schengen area," France Visas states. Acceptable proof includes personal bank statements for the last three months, the last three pay slips, credit/debit card statements and travellers cheques.

For those considering Italy - another favourite among UK tourists - there isn't a set amount that applicants need to have, but it should cover accommodation, meals, internal travel, and emergencies. Travellers may be asked to provide bank statements from the past six months.