The Spanish border wants tourists coming into its country to supply all sorts of paperwork - depending on whether you're staying for the long or short haul. The country has been propelled into the spotlight within the last year as huge protests have gone ahead on the mainland, Canary and Balearics over the influx of tourists and the impact it has on life for locals. Some regions have brought in a host of new rules, regulations and taxes. Others such as Catalonia, has long imposed a tourist tax on any travellers staying overnight in the region, the cost of which has been steadily increasing over the years.

In light of these tourist-centred crackdowns, it’s vital to be up to date on Spain’s entry rules to avoid hassle at the border. The UK Foreign Office has provided guidance on everything British travellers need to present at Spanish airports. This information is specific to those travelling on a full British citizen passport. No. You can travel without a visa to the Schengen area (which includes Spain and most EU member states) for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.

Visa-free travel to Spain applies if you are travelling:. as a tourist. to visit family or friends. to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events. for short-term studies or training. The UK Foreign Office stresses that you must get your passport stamped upon entry and exit. This is vital to ensure you have not overstayed the 90-day visa-free limit for the Schengen area. If you overstay the 90-day visa-free limit, you may be banned from entering Schengen countries for up to three years. If for any reason you need to extend your visa-free stay while in Spain (medical reasons, being one example), you must apply to the Extranjeria (immigration authorities) or contact the Spanish government’s national information service. If you wish to stay in Spain longer than 90 days for work, you must meet the Spanish government’s entry requirements .

If you’re in Spain with a residence permit or long-stay visa, this does not apply to you. In the case you did not obtain a stamp, you will need to provide evidence of when and where you entered or left the Schengen area. Evidence can include a boarding pass or other ticket. Only British nationals living in Spain do not need a stamped passport. At all Spanish borders, be prepared to show:. your passport (with a Date of Issue less than 10 years before your arrival date and an expiry date at least three months after the day you plan to leave the Schengen area).

a return or onward ticket. proof of your travel insurance. you have enough money for your stay (the amount varies depending on your accommodation; you must declare cash if the value is 10,000 euros or more). a hotel booking confirmation or proof of address if you’re staying at your own property. an invitation or proof of address if staying with a third party, friends or family, such as a ‘carta de invitation’ completed by your hosts.