Spain Relaxes Entry Restrictions – Is It Too Late For Half Term Travelers?

Ahead of growing concerns about border requirements for upcoming half-term holidays, the Spanish government has announced that it will be dropping restrictions that require British teenagers to be fully vaccinated before entering the country. Spain's previous policy required all over-12's to provide proof of double vaccination and a booster if required upon entering the country.

The relaxation of these restrictions means that British children aged 12 to 17 that have yet to be vaccinated will be able to travel to the country, provided they present evidence of a negative PCR test to be taken within 72 hours of entering the country.

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However, with half-term starting on Monday, many travelers feel the change has come a little too late. The delay over announcements has left British families frustrated and disappointed after having to cancel or alter their winter sun travel plans.

Initial recommendations from the Chief Medical Officer, Chris Whitty, led to vaccines for 12-15-year-olds only being offered in September. The 8-week gap between both vaccines, upped to 12 weeks if testing positive, has meant that many British children have yet to receive their second dose.

When inquired about the restriction turn around, Spanish Tourism Minister, Fernando Valdéz was quoted by the BBC as saying

"Great Britain is our main market, we've always been very keen in easing the restrictions between both countries."

Spain is the most visited country by British holidaymakers, who provided the country with £17 billion in tourism revenue in the 3 years before the pandemic.

Some Restrictions Will Continue

Restrictions will remain in place for over-18s who will need to be fully vaccinated before entering Spain. All travelers are required to present a QR code, which is provided by filling in the Health Control form available on the Spanish Travel Health website.

Unvaccinated travelers are only permitted to enter the country for "essential purposes". These restrictions include Spanish and EU citizens. Similar regulations apply, with those qualifying for essential travel needing to provide an antigen test, taken 24 hours prior to their departure. The timeframe for PCR tests remains up to 72 hours before travel.

Holidaymakers won't require such restrictive measures upon return to the UK. As of February 11th, the UK has dropped COVID-19 testing for fully vaccinated travelers. Unvaccinated travelers no longer need to isolate either, but will still need to take a test before their departure.