travel to spain corona

• KAYAK for Business NEW

Spain Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to Spain

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in public spaces, enclosed environments and public transportation.

Spain entry details and exceptions

Ready to travel, find flights to spain, find stays in spain, explore more countries on travel restrictions map, destinations you can travel to now, dominican republic, netherlands, philippines, puerto rico, switzerland, united arab emirates, united kingdom, know when to go.

Sign up for email alerts as countries begin to open - choose the destinations you're interested in so you're in the know.

Can I travel to Spain from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Spain.

Can I travel to Spain if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Spain without restrictions.

Can I travel to Spain without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Spain without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Spain?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Spain.

Can I travel to Spain without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Spain?

Mask usage in Spain is not required in public spaces, enclosed environments and public transportation.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Spain?

Restaurants in Spain are open. Bars in Spain are .

Parts of Spain now require a health pass from visitors to enter indoor spaces

Jul 27, 2021 • 3 min read

Parts of Spain, including Tenerife (pictured) now require proof of vaccination from individuals before allowing them to enter cafes, bars and restaurants © Shutterstock

In a similar move to France and Italy, some regions in Spain are now requiring individuals to show that they have been vaccinated or have tested negative for COVID-19 before entering cafes, bars and restaurants.

From July 31, Galicia will require proof of vaccination or testing status from people before they're allowed to dine or drink indoors at cafes, bars and restaurants, according to Spanish newspaper El País . That means people will need to prove they have been fully vaccinated or have tested negative for COVID-19 within the past 72 hours, or have recovered from the virus within the last six months.

Measures like this are increasingly required across Europe, with proof of vaccination now a condition of entry to many venues across Italy and France too.

Read more: France's new health pass is now required for your trip - here's how to get it

For citizens and travelers visiting Spain from an EU county, that proof can be the information that's stored on the EU digital COVID-19 certificate. For travelers who have arrived from the UK, the NHS certificate or app is accepted as proof of COVID-19 health status. Visitors from elsewhere should be able to show their official vaccination card as proof but the regional government has yet to set out clear guidelines.

On Monday, the Canary island of Tenerife joined Galicia in requiring similar proof from patrons who want to dine or drink indoors in cafes, bars and restaurants. The pass will also open doors to theaters, cultural centers, sports venues and indoor tourist attractions. It comes as the region raised its coronavirus alert to level four, the highest level. The popular tourist destination is the worst-hit of the Canary Islands , but the regional government warned the same requirement will apply across the archipelago if any other islands move up to level four.

Those who aren't vaccinated and need to show a negative COVID-19 test result can get a PCR test in many pharmacies and medical clinics across Spain. The Covid Testing Locations list will help you find your nearest testing site, as well as Google Maps . In Spain, the average cost of a PCR test is €120 and an antigen test is comparatively much cheaper at about €30.

Elsewhere, as the fifth wave of the pandemic takes hold, nighttime curfews are in place in the regions of Catalonia and Valencia and there are caps on social gatherings across much of the country. The fast spread of the Delta variant in Spain has also spurred the US to update its travel advisories. On Monday, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) raised its travel advisory to "Level Four: Very High", telling Americans they should avoid travel to Spain, while the State Department issued a "Do Not Travel" advisory.

“The  Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 4 Travel Health Notice  for  Spain due to COVID-19, indicating a very high level of COVID-19 in the country,” the US Department of State said on Monday. Travel advisories were also increased for Portugal, Cyprus and Kyrgyzstan due to rising coronavirus case numbers.

You might also like:

The best time to go to Spain Which of the Canary Islands is right for you? This little-explored Canary Island is so much more than the stereotypes

Explore related stories

Apr 19, 2024 • 10 min read

Summer is just around the corner in the northern hemisphere. Here's where the Lonely Planet team is going.

Apr 16, 2024 • 7 min read

Apr 12, 2024 • 9 min read

Apr 3, 2024 • 15 min read

Mar 31, 2024 • 6 min read

Mar 25, 2024 • 6 min read

Mar 22, 2024 • 5 min read

Mar 20, 2024 • 6 min read

Mar 20, 2024 • 8 min read

Mar 14, 2024 • 16 min read

• Inspiration
• Destinations
• Places To Stay
• Style & Culture
• Food & Drink
• Wellness & Spas
• News & Advice
• Partnerships
• Traveller's Directory
• Travel Tips
• Competitions

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The new Spain travel rules explained

By Abigail Malbon

Travel in 2022 is easier than it has been in a while as Covid restrictions ease, but what does this mean for holidays to Spain , and are British travellers allowed to enter? Here’s what you need to know about the entry rules and Covid tests required if you're planning a trip to Spain now. 

Can I go to Spain on holiday?

Yes. Travel rules have been significantly lifted in 2022, making holidays far simpler than during the previous two years.

For your return to the UK afterwards, there is no need to take a test. Since 18 March 2022, all people travelling from Spain to the UK do not need to take any tests or quarantine when returning to England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland as the UK has now dropped all Covid travel rules. 

What are the Spain travel restrictions for Covid?

As of 21 October 2022, the last remaining travel restrictions were lifted on entry to Spain. All of the rules that previously applied are no longer enforced, including the requirement to present proof of vaccination, the requirement to fill out travel forms ahead of arriving in the country, proof of having recovered from Covid in the last 6 months, or proof of a negative PCR or antigen test upon arrival.

Since 20 April 2022, face masks are no longer a requirement inside in Spain, apart from on public transport and in hospitals and retirement homes. The Spanish government has stated that, if cases continue to rise during the summer months, masks may be reintroduced in more areas of daily life.

Can you travel to Spain unvaccinated?

Yes, entry requirements for Spain are the same for all travellers of any age, regardless of Covid vaccination status.

What are the entry requirements for the Canary Islands?

All entry requirements to the Canary Islands are the same as on mainland Spain, outlined above. On Thursday 24 March 2022, many Covid restrictions were lifted within the Canary Islands, which meant an end to the ‘dancing ban’ that had restricted dancing in bars, clubs and restaurants. 

Is it safe to travel to Spain now?

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office considers Spain safe to visit right now, although notes that it's important to get travel insurance before your trip. It's always best to check local government advice before travelling, as rules can change quickly and without notice. 

Where to stay : Are you looking for time to decompress post-lockdown, or for a busy city break? After perhaps more than a year at home, it can be hard to choose, but Spain has both. Start in Barcelona at the smart Nobu Hotel for the sights and history, before hopping to Mallorca and checking into the El Llorenç Parc de la Mar for rooftop views and gin-clear waters.

What to do : As well as switching to a tapas-only diet, we recommend hiring a car to drive the coastal paths of Mallorca . Make a stop at Es Pontàs, a natural arch in the south-eastern part of the island, in time for sunset.

Tue 23 Apr 2024

2024 newspaper of the year

@ Contact us

Your newsletters

Spain entry requirements explained: The latest travel restrictions on Covid tests and vaccination

Unvaccinated uk tourists can visit spain, but covid requirements still apply.

Spain eased entry rules for UK travellers in May by lifting its ban on unvaccinated arrivals. However, it is yet to scrap all Covid-related rules for visitors from the UK as it has for arrivals from the European Union or Schengen countries.

It is possible that the Spanish authorities will change the requirements for Britons arriving in the country to match the rules for those travelling from the EU and drop all Covid requirements.

For now, all UK travellers aged 12 must either be fully vaccinated (with a 270 limit on the last jab), have recovered from Covid-19 in the previous six months or have tested negative for Covid before travel. Over-12s who cannot show proof of vaccination must also complete a health control form for entry.

What you need for entry to Spain

UK travellers aged 18 or over arriving in Spain by air must either be fully vaccinated, have recently tested negative for Covid or have recovered from Covid-19 in the past six months and have a recovery certificate to prove this.

By Spain’s definition, fully vaccinated means that adults need to have received a booster if 270 days or more has passed since their final dose of an initial vaccination course. The latest updates to Spain’s entry rules are published on the tourism board’s Travel Safe website .

Over-12s arriving from the UK on a flight will require one of the following:

• Proof of full vaccination, with an EU Digital Covid Certificate, or equivalent, such as an NHS Covid Pass 
• A negative Covid-19 test result: either a PCR test taken 72 hours prior to departure or an antigen test result taken 24 hours prior to departure (you will need an official documentation of the test result, from a professional tester) 
• Proof of recovery from Covid-19 in the past six months with an official medical certificate or recovery record

The entry rules for children

Children aged 12 and over are subject to the same rules as adults when travelling from the UK to Spain by air. However, children under 12 do not need to present proof of vaccination, a negative or recovery for entry to Spain.

More from Travel

Spain’s travel form and who needs to complete it

Travellers aged 12 or over who cannot show proof of full vaccination (which will include a booster for most Britons) or having recovered from Covid-19 in the previous six months must complete Spain’s Travel Health Control Form no more than 48 hours prior to travel.

Children under 12 do not need to complete an online Health Control Form before travel to Spain. Travellers aged 12 and over who do have proof of full vaccination (likely to include a booster) or recovery from prior Covid-19 infection in the last six months are not required to complete Spain’s Travel Health Control Form.

Most Read By Subscribers

Advertisement

Spain Coronavirus Map and Case Count

The New York Times Updated March 10, 2023

• Share full article

Tracking Coronavirus in Spain: Latest Map and Case Count

New reported cases.

Vaccinations

Fully vaccinated.

See more details ›

Latest trends

• An average of 1,013 cases per day were reported in Spain in the last week. Cases have increased by 1 percent from the average two weeks ago. Deaths have decreased by 53 percent .
• Since the beginning of the pandemic, a total of 13,770,429 cases have been reported . At least 1 in 394 residents have died from the coronavirus, a total of 119,479 deaths .
• January 2022 was the month with the highest average cases, while April 2020 was the month with the highest average deaths in Spain.

Latest trends by region

This table is sorted by places with the most cases per 100,000 residents in the last seven days. Charts show change in daily averages and are each on their own scale.

How trends have changed in Spain

About the data.

Data for Spain comes from the Center for Systems Science and Engineering at Johns Hopkins University . Population data from the National Statistics Institute of Spain .

The Times has identified reporting anomalies or methodology changes in the data.

• March 23, 2022: Because of a change in reporting methods in March 2022, case data for Spain now only includes reported cases in people 60 years old and older.
• June 19, 2020: Spain added many deaths that were not properly recorded from earlier in the pandemic.
• Spain does not regularly report new data on weekends.

Confirmed cases and deaths , which are widely considered to be an undercount of the true toll, are counts of individuals whose coronavirus infections were confirmed by a molecular laboratory test. Probable cases and deaths count individuals who meet criteria for other types of testing, symptoms and exposure, as developed by national and local governments.

Governments often revise data or report a single-day large increase in cases or deaths from unspecified days without historical revisions, which can cause an irregular pattern in the daily reported figures. The Times is excluding these anomalies from seven-day averages when possible. For agencies that do not report data every day, variation in the schedule on which cases or deaths are reported, such as around holidays, can also cause an irregular pattern in averages. The Times uses an adjustment method to vary the number of days included in an average to remove these irregularities.

Tracking the Coronavirus

By Jordan Allen, Sarah Almukhtar , Aliza Aufrichtig , Anne Barnard, Matthew Bloch , Penn Bullock, Sarah Cahalan, Weiyi Cai, Julia Calderone, Keith Collins , Matthew Conlen, Lindsey Cook, Gabriel Gianordoli , Amy Harmon , Rich Harris , Adeel Hassan , Jon Huang , Danya Issawi, Danielle Ivory , K.K. Rebecca Lai , Alex Lemonides, Eleanor Lutz , Allison McCann , Richard A. Oppel Jr. , Jugal K. Patel , Alison Saldanha, Kirk Semple, Shelly Seroussi, Julie Walton Shaver, Amy Schoenfeld Walker , Anjali Singhvi , Charlie Smart , Mitch Smith , Albert Sun , Rumsey Taylor , Lisa Waananen Jones, Derek Watkins , Timothy Williams , Jin Wu and Karen Yourish .   ·   Reporting was contributed by Jeff Arnold, Ian Austen , Mike Baker , Brillian Bao, Ellen Barry , Shashank Bengali , Samone Blair, Nicholas Bogel-Burroughs, Aurelien Breeden, Elisha Brown, Emma Bubola, Maddie Burakoff, Alyssa Burr, Christopher Calabrese, Julia Carmel, Zak Cassel, Robert Chiarito, Izzy Colón, Matt Craig, Yves De Jesus, Brendon Derr, Brandon Dupré, Melissa Eddy, John Eligon, Timmy Facciola, Bianca Fortis, Jake Frankenfield, Matt Furber, Robert Gebeloff, Thomas Gibbons-Neff, Matthew Goldstein , Grace Gorenflo, Rebecca Griesbach, Benjamin Guggenheim, Barbara Harvey, Lauryn Higgins, Josh Holder, Jake Holland, Anna Joyce, John Keefe , Ann Hinga Klein, Jacob LaGesse, Alex Lim, Alex Matthews, Patricia Mazzei, Jesse McKinley, Miles McKinley, K.B. Mensah, Sarah Mervosh, Jacob Meschke, Lauren Messman, Andrea Michelson, Jaylynn Moffat-Mowatt, Steven Moity, Paul Moon, Derek M. Norman, Anahad O’Connor, Ashlyn O’Hara, Azi Paybarah, Elian Peltier, Richard Pérez-Peña , Sean Plambeck, Laney Pope, Elisabetta Povoledo, Cierra S. Queen, Savannah Redl, Scott Reinhard , Chloe Reynolds, Thomas Rivas, Frances Robles, Natasha Rodriguez, Jess Ruderman, Kai Schultz , Alex Schwartz, Emily Schwing, Libby Seline, Rachel Sherman, Sarena Snider, Brandon Thorp, Alex Traub, Maura Turcotte, Tracey Tully, Jeremy White , Kristine White, Bonnie G. Wong, Tiffany Wong, Sameer Yasir and John Yoon.   ·   Data acquisition and additional work contributed by Will Houp, Andrew Chavez, Michael Strickland, Tiff Fehr, Miles Watkins, Josh Williams , Nina Pavlich, Carmen Cincotti, Ben Smithgall, Andrew Fischer, Rachel Shorey , Blacki Migliozzi , Alastair Coote, Jaymin Patel, John-Michael Murphy, Isaac White, Steven Speicher, Hugh Mandeville, Robin Berjon, Thu Trinh, Carolyn Price, James G. Robinson, Phil Wells, Yanxing Yang, Michael Beswetherick, Michael Robles, Nikhil Baradwaj, Ariana Giorgi, Bella Virgilio, Dylan Momplaisir, Avery Dews, Bea Malsky, Ilana Marcus, Sean Cataguni and Jason Kao .

Coronavirus restrictions in Spain: All the latest news, region by region

There are no longer any nighttime curfews in the country and only two regions continue to limit social gatherings. the use of face masks when indoors and the closure of nightlife venues will be the last measures to be lifted.

Spain is taking steps toward normality after the fifth wave of the coronavirus . The measures vary from region to region, and are progressive – they are far from the so-called “freedom day” proclaimed by British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on July 19, when the remaining restrictions were lifted all at once in England. But as the infection curve comes down in Spain, the regions are lifting restrictions, and some are planning on eliminating them all in the coming weeks. For now, the full reopening of nightlife is still not an option, at least not with dancefloors and drinking permitted while not sitting at a table. And one measure is likely to be here for months to come: masks when indoors.

In terms of the cumulative incidence of the virus, Spain has been out of the “high risk” zone since Thursday. Aragón and the Canary Islands are the only regions that are still limiting social meetings, whether in public or private. The former has set the limit to 10 people and the latter to 12 on the islands that are on level one alert (this is most of them). Until last week, that same limit was in place in Catalonia and Valencia, two regions that have scrapped their nighttime curfews. This measure affected one in every six Spaniards just two months ago. On Friday night, the last curfew in place in Spain – in Cantillana, a municipality in Seville with 10,736 residents – was lifted.

With no perimetral lockdowns, curfews nor limits on private meetings, the most palpable social restrictions left in Spain are capacity limits for businesses and the hospitality sector, as well as the closure of most of the country’s nightlife venues . All of the regions are keeping some restrictions in place at restaurant tables, depending on their risk levels. But these are also being relaxed, as the incidence falls and the vaccination campaign progresses, with nearly 75% of the population in Spain now having the full protection offered by the vaccines.

Castilla y León is the region that has most relaxed its restrictions in hospitality, allowing tables with up to 25 diners, as well as being one of the few territories that is permitting nightlife with practically no restrictions, apart from a capacity limit of 50%.

There could be a sixth, seventh, eighth or ninth wave, but they won’t be like the previous ones Fernando Simón, director of the Health Ministry’s Coordination Center for Health Alerts

Galicia has chosen a different formula, allowing establishments to choose between two options. In the first, restaurants and bars can open with a capacity of 50% inside and 75% outside. In the second, the indoor capacity rises to 75% and to 100% outside, while inside, people can consume at the bar counter if alone or with one other person from their household.

Each region is now completely free to set its own social limits. Apart from the use of face masks, which is still regulated by a national law , and some other protocols, such as those covering the return to schools and universities , regional authorities can keep those they see fit depending on risk levels. Back in June, the Health Ministry failed to reach an agreement with the regions to impose certain obligatory restrictions in the hospitality sector, meaning that the traffic light system that had been designed previously is now just there to give recommendations.

Some regional governments have been calling on the Health Ministry to set rules for the use of Covid-19 “passports” to grant entry to bars and restaurants, with a view to reopening them completely. In many European countries, such as France and Italy, this proof of vaccination, negative test result or recent recovery from an infection is needed for access to hospitality venues, among others. But the ministry has no plans for such a move for now, after the courts rejected the measure in the four regions that tried to put it into place.

Symbolic restrictions

The limitations that remain in place are “more symbolic,” according to Manuel Franco, a spokesperson from the Spanish Public Health Society (Sespas). “We are very close to normality now, apart from masks indoors, and it seems that we are trusting everything to the vaccination campaign,” he says.

He and another 600 public health specialists met last week in León, northern Spain, at the yearly meeting of the Spanish Epidemiological Society (SEE). Some attendees spoke about their shock at seeing bars packed at nighttime, with people drinking and dancing “like in 2018,” in the words of Franco. One of his colleagues admitted that perhaps they are “living in a bubble,” because all of them were shocked and surprised to see such an image.

In any case, some are now assuming that we have to start living with Covid-19 . That was the opinion of Fernando Simón, the director of the Health Ministry’s Coordination Center for Health Alerts (CCAES), and the visible face of the government during the coronavirus crisis. During a talk in which he participated at the conference in León last week, he said: “We have to start to normalize the disease.”

As more and more people in Spain have been vaccinated, the risk of serious illness or dying has drastically fallen . The death rate in the fifth wave was 0.2% – i.e. two people died for every thousand infections. That’s compared to 1.7% for the entire epidemic in Spain – eight times higher. And the last wave began with most of the under-70s without full protection from the vaccines – just one in every five Spaniards was fully inoculated at that moment.

If there are more waves, they will be much less pronounced, the majority of experts consulted by EL PAÍS believe. “It’s very likely that Spain will not have any more major epidemic waves,” said Simón last week. “There could be a sixth, seventh, eighth or ninth, but they won’t be like the previous ones.”

SEE President Elena Vanesa Martínez is of the same opinion, but she insists that certain measures must remain in place, “something that will allow for the coming waves to be controlled.” She adds: “The fewer cases there are, the more [the restrictions] will work. We have to keep monitoring and not put our foot on the accelerator.” The key, she explains, is to continue to be cautious in places “where we know there is genuine risk.” That’s to say, indoors with no masks, in places where people eat and drink, for example. “Stores, where you don’t even spend half-an-hour and no one takes their mask off , are not a risk, and [that risk] also falls a great deal in the open air. We have to focus on this and remind the population that the risk has not disappeared,” she insists. In her opinion, infections still need to be carefully monitored in order to vary the restrictions, if necessary.

With the majority of the Spanish population now protected against the most serious consequences of Covid-19, some experts believe that the infection curve is not as important as it used to be. The healthcare system is not likely to be compromised if there are new waves – it wasn’t during the fifth spike, when there was a huge increase in infections as the school year ended and socializing among young people went up.

Fernando Rodríguez Artalejo, a professor in public health at Madrid’s Autonomous University, believes that it no longer makes sense to set a level of 50 cases per 100,000 inhabitants over 14 days as the “low risk” level, and believes it should be more like 100. Once below this level, he continues, “the majority of measures can be lifted.” According to the latest Health Ministry report, on Friday the data point was at 131.3, and has been falling every day for some time now.

Here are the current restrictions in each region of Spain.

The regional government is expecting measures to soon be relaxed if the cumulative incidence falls below 100 cases per 100,000 inhabitants over 14 days. The majority of municipalities are on level one of four. This means capacity is limited to 75% in hospitality venues indoors, with a maximum of eight people per table, while outside areas have no limits. Restaurants and bars can open until 2am and nightclubs until 3.30am. Consumption at bar counters inside and outside is permitted at level one, while at level two this is only permitted outdoors.

The health department in the region is considering loosening restrictions “very soon,” according to an announcement made on Thursday. For now, the measures remain in place. Meetings in private and public are limited to 10 people, bars and restaurants can open until 12.30am, but new customers are not allowed in from midnight. The capacity indoors in these areas is limited to 50%, with up to six people per table, and outdoor areas have no capacity limits but the maximum number of people per table is 10. Consumption at bar counters is not permitted and there is no smoking in outdoor areas. The same measures apply to nightlife venues.

The regional government on Friday presented the new restrictions in place from Saturday onward. The measures affect hospitality venues, which can now open according to their license and with a maximum of 10 people per table both inside and outside. The use of bar counters is permitted as well as consumption at bars. As for nightlife, venues can open until 4am and dancing is permitted when the dance floor is outdoors. Inside, nighttime bars and nightclubs can open but patrons can only stand or sit in groups of six.

Balearic Islands

New restrictions went into place on Thursday and will stay in place until September 27. In Ibiza, the closing time for social, cultural and leisure activities has been extended from 1am to 2am, meaning that all the islands are now subject to the same timings. Restaurants can have eight people per table inside and 12 outside. The Balearics is allowing nighttime bars to open subject to the same capacity limits as for hospitality venues. Nightclubs remain closed. Beaches are closed from 10pm to 6am on all of the islands.

Basque Country

Restrictions put in place on September 1 remain in force. Indoors, capacity is limited to 50% in bars and restaurants, with no limits outside. Up to eight people per table are permitted, both inside and outside. No consumption at bar counters or when standing is allowed. Closure for all commercial, cultural and social activities remains at 1am. Pubs and nightclubs are still closed.

Canary Islands

The regional government put new restrictions in place last Monday, and there are still restrictions according to the four different alert levels. The majority of the islands are on level one, apart from Gran Canaria, on two, and Tenerife and Fuerteventura, on three. Social meetings among those who don’t live together are limited according to the level: 12 people for level one, eight for two, and six for levels three and four. For restaurants on level one, outdoor areas can open with no limits and indoors the capacity is 75% with a 3am closing time. For level two, the capacity falls to 75% outside and 50% inside with closing at 2am. At level three, 75% capacity outside is permitted and 40% inside with a 1am closing time. Nighttime bars, nightclubs and karaoke bars can open on all the islands, but only for hospitality activities – i.e. food and bar services – and with no dance floors. The closing time for these businesses also depends on the level.

The region is keeping its restrictions in place, depending on the risk level in each municipality. The whole territory is between level one and two. For hospitality, capacity is set at 75% for level one with tables of up to six people indoors, and 100% capacity with a maximum of 10 people outdoors. At level two, the capacity inside falls to 50% with six people per table and the same capacity outdoors as at level one. Nighttime venues can only open in level one, with the same limits as for the hospitality sector, and a 3am closing time.

Castilla-La Mancha

Restrictions for hospitality and nightlife remain in place. For restaurants, the capacity inside is 75% and 100% outside, with a 2am closing time. Consumption at bar counters is prohibited and tables are limited to 10 people. Nightlife opens until 3am with a capacity of 75% inside and 100% outside. No dancing is allowed inside, nor is consumption at bar counters.

Castilla y León

The regional government announced last Thursday that it will not extend restrictions further, and that from Tuesday the whole region will return to risk level one. Limits on nightlife will be eliminated and consumption at bar counters will be permitted. Bars and restaurants will be able to allow consumption at the bar and standing, with a limit of 75% capacity and a maximum of 25 people per table. Outdoor areas will have no capacity limits, while the inside of nightclubs and other nighttime venues will reopen with a capacity of 50%. No closing times will be mandated.

New restrictions came into force on Wednesday. The limit of 10 people for social and family meetings was scrapped, while hospitality and nightlife venues must close at 12.30am. Capacity in bars and restaurants is limited to 50% inside, with a maximum of six people per table. There are no limits outdoors, and there can be as many as 10 to a table. Nightlife venues still cannot open their indoor areas.

Extremadura

The regional government of Extremadura announced on Friday that it intends to enter the new normality on September 27. To reach this point, the region is expected to enter level two on September 15, and start to relax restrictions on the hospitality and nightlife sectors. From this date on, bars and restaurants will be able to open until 3am (up from 2am), and capacity indoors will increase from 30% to 40%. With respect to nightlife venues, opening hours will also be extended an hour and capacity indoors set at 30%.

From September 15, restrictions on the hospitality sector will not be linked to the risk level of each municipality. There will be two options on how to open and it will be up to business owners to decide between the two. In the first, restaurants and bars can open with a capacity of 50% inside and 75% outside. While in the second, capacity is set at 75% and 100%, respectively, and people can consume at the bar counter if alone or with one other person from their household. In municipalities at extreme and high risk, nighttime venues must keep their indoor areas close, but can open outdoor space at 75% capacity. In medium-risk areas, these venues can open at 50% capacity indoors and 75% outdoors. In low-medium risk municipalities, this is set at 50% and 100%, respectively. Beaches must close between 12 and 6am.

The regional government extended the restrictions in place on Wednesday. This means that bars and restaurants still have 75% capacity limits inside and 100% outside. The recommendation is six diners per table. Closing time depends on each venue’s license but 2am is the limit. Nighttime bars and nightclubs have a six-person limit at tables too, while consumption at bars is permitted. The capacity limit inside is 75%.

The regional government is going to relax restrictions for hospitality, nightlife and culture at the end of September. For now, the current measures will stay in place. Hospitality venues can open until 1am with capacity limited to 50% inside and 75% outside. Six diners per table are permitted inside and eight outside . Nightlife venues can open until 3am with the same capacity limits as hospitality. Consumption at bar counters is not permitted, nor is dancing indoors.

In the hospitality sector, outdoor areas can open at 100% capacity with tables of up to 10 people. Indoors, the capacity is at 30% for municipalities at level three, 50% for level two, and 75% for level one. Tables indoors are limited to six people and consumption at bar counters is prohibited. The interiors of pubs and nightclubs have been closed since July 10, but outside these businesses can operate with no limits. Social meetings are not permitted between members of different households between 2 and 4am and are limited to 10 people in general.

The government will relax all restrictions for the hospitality sector from September 17, but for now, restrictions remain in place. Bars and restaurants can open inside with capacity of 60%, but there is no such limit if the venue has a CO2 monitor and a system to locate patrons in the case of a confirmed infection . There can be up to six people per table provided there is a distance of 70 centimeters between them. There are no limits for outdoor tables and there can be up to 10 people per table. Closing time is 1am. Nightclubs and other nighttime venues are limited to 50% capacity with tables of six people. Dance floors are not permitted and closing time is 1am.

A series of new measures came into force on September 7 and will remain in place until September 27. The nighttime curfew was scrapped on September 7, and new limits on capacity were introduced. Capacity in bars and restaurants is now set at 50% with a limit of eight people to a table. In outdoor areas, there are no restrictions on capacity, and up to 10 people can be seated at a table. Bars and restaurants must close at 12.30, and consumption at bar counters remains prohibited. Nighttime venues can open until 3am at 50% capacity in indoor areas. Eight people are allowed at a table inside and 10 outdoors. Dancing is also banned.

With reporting by Javier Martín-Arroyo , Guillermo Vega , Cristina Vázquez , Silvia R. Pontevedra and Juan Navarro.

English version by Simon Hunter .

More information

As coronavirus transmission continues to fall, Spain moves out of ‘high risk’ level

Return to normal uncertain in Spain as Covid cases fall, vaccination advances and delta variant circulates

• Francés online
• Inglés online
• Italiano online
• Alemán online
• Crucigramas & Juegos

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Warnings and insurance

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide and any specific travel advice that applies to you:

• women travellers
• disabled travellers
• LGBT+ travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

Related content

Is this page useful.

• Yes this page is useful
• No this page is not useful

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. We’ll send you a link to a feedback form. It will take only 2 minutes to fill in. Don’t worry we won’t send you spam or share your email address with anyone.

Update April 12, 2024

Information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Before You Go

Learn About Your Destination

While Abroad

Emergencies

Share this page:

Travel Advisory July 26, 2023

Spain - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in Spain due to  terrorism  and  civil unrest .

Country Summary:  Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Spain. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.

Demonstrations are common. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events.

Read the  country information page for additional information on travel in Spain.

If you decide to travel to Spain:

• Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and crowded public venues.
• Follow the instructions of local authorities.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Spain.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

6 months recommended, 3 months beyond your date of departure is required

1 page per stamp

None required for less than 90 days

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Embassy Madrid Calle Serrano, 75 28006 Madrid, Spain Telephone: (34) 91-587-2200 Emergency after-hours telephone: (34) 91-587-2200  Fax: (34) 91-587-2303 E-mail: [email protected]

U.S. Consulate General Barcelona Paseo Reina Elisenda de Montcada, 23 08034 Barcelona, Spain Telephone: (34) 93-280-2227 Emergency after-hours telephone: (34) 91-587-2200  Fax: (34) 93-280-6175 E-mail: [email protected]

U.S. Consular Agency Fuengirola (Málaga) Avenida Juan Gómez "Juanito", 8 Edificio Lucía 1º-C 29640 Fuengirola (Málaga), Spain Telephone: (34) 95-247-4891 Fax: (34) 95-246-5189 E-mail: [email protected]

U.S. Consular Agency Las Palmas Edificio Arca Calle Los Martinez de Escobar 3, Oficina 7 35007 Las Palmas, Gran Canaria, Spain Telephone: (34) 92-827-1259 Fax: (34) 92-822-5863 E-mail:   [email protected]

U.S. Consular Agency Palma de Mallorca Edificio Reina Constanza Porto Pi, 8, 9-D 07015 Palma, Islas Baleares, Spain Telephone: (34) 97-140-3707  Fax: (34) 97-140-3971 E-mail: [email protected]

U.S. Consular Agency Seville Plaza Nueva 8-8 duplicado 2nd Floor, Office E-2 No.4 41101 Sevilla, Spain Telephone: (34) 95-421-8751 Fax: (34) 95-422-0791 E-mail:   [email protected]

U.S. Consular Agency Valencia Doctor Romagosa 1, 2-J 46002 Valencia, Spain Telephone: (34) 96-351-6973 Fax: (34) 96-352-9565 E-mail:   [email protected]

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Spain for information on U.S.-Spain relations.  

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

U.S. citizens traveling to Spain are not subject to any COVID-19 entry restrictions.

Spain is a party to the  Schengen Agreement . This means that U.S. citizens may enter Spain for up to 90 days for tourism or business without a visa. Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the period of stay. You must have sufficient funds and a return airline ticket. Visit the  Embassy of Spain  website for the most current visa information.

Traveling Through Europe : If you are planning to visit, transit and/or travel through European countries, you should be familiar with the requirements of the Schengen Agreement. 

• Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the period of stay. If you plan on transiting a Schengen country, review our U.S. Travelers in Europe page .    
• You will need sufficient proof of funds and a return plane ticket .  
• For additional information about visas for the Schengen area, see the Schengen Visa page.

Students and athletes:  Students, prospective students, and athletes should visit the  Embassy of Spain  website for additional information on entry requirements. You should not travel to Spain as a student or for an athletic/study program without the appropriate Spanish visa. U.S. citizen students and athletes have been denied entry and held in immigration detention at Spanish airports awaiting return flights to the United States because they lacked the appropriate visa. If your coach or sponsoring program says that you do not require a visa to study, play for a sports team, or participate in a sports training program in Spain, you should confirm this information with the nearest Spanish consulate in the United States before you travel.

U.S. citizen minors living in Spain:  Spanish law mandates that all Spanish minors traveling internationally without their parents or legal guardians must have written notarized permission from a parent or guardian. The law also applies to foreign, minor residents if their country of nationality also requires parental permission. While U.S. law does not require minors traveling without a parent/guardian to have the parents’/guardians’ written permission, Spanish authorities and airlines have occasionally misinterpreted the law and stopped U.S. citizens minors from departing the country. Therefore, parents/legal guardians should consider preparing a notarized, written permission for their U.S. citizen minor children to travel abroad unaccompanied or with a third party.

HIV/AIDS restrictions: The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Spain.  

Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction , and customs regulations on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism:  Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on encouraging or conducting attacks worldwide, including within Europe. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to target crowds more effectively. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as: 

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists 
• Places of worship 
• Schools 
• Parks 
• Shopping malls and markets 
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)  

Spain’s open borders with its Western European neighbors allow the possibility for terrorists to enter and exit the country anonymously. Additionally, Spain’s enclaves in Melilla and Ceuta on the North African coast allow for entry into Spain from the African continent. Spain has taken robust actions to guard against terrorist attacks, including arrests of suspected extremists allegedly involved in terrorist plots. Credible information indicates terrorist groups continue to plot potential attacks in Europe, including Spain.

For more information, see our Terrorism page.  

Crime:  Pickpocketing and other minor crimes, such as theft, are very common in Spain including instances where the victim is purposefully distracted to facilitate the theft. Street crimes against U.S. citizens usually occur in  tourist areas, including airports, train stations, and both urban and beach destinations .

Violent crimes, including robberies, have also been reported. Some instances have required the victim to seek medical attention. Car break-ins are also frequent in Spain.

Use common sense, awareness and the same personal security measures you would normally use in any large city or tourist destination.

Keep track of your passport at all times, including on flights and other modes of transportation. There have been reports of passports being stolen on planes en route to Spain. Do not leave bags unattended. Keep them in sight and avoid placing passports, cash, cell phones, or other valuables in the outer pockets of backpacks or purses on tables or floors, grounds in public places. Do not leave bags slung over the backs of chairs, on hotel or store counters, on top of your suitcase or travel bag, or out of your physical control in hotel lobbies, car rental locations, train stations, restaurants, and other public places. Avoid carrying your passport unless needed for travel, especially in tourist areas. Instead, carry a photocopy or photo of your passport’s biographical information page and consider leaving your passport in a secure location, such as a hotel safe. Your passport will be required to check in into any hotel in Spain and may be required for trains or tourist sites.

Sexual Assault:  The U.S. Mission in Spain has received numerous reports of sexual assaults affecting U.S. citizens, especially younger travelers, students, and exchange teachers.

Navigating the Spanish criminal justice system after surviving a sexual assault has been difficult for many U.S. citizen victims, who report feeling judged and re-victimized throughout the very lengthy process.

Although it is not required, many U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault in Spain have found it helpful to hire a local attorney to be their advocate and defend their rights during any judicial process or use the help of the local Office of Victim’s Assistance. Information about the local victim’s assistance program is given out at the police station when the report is filed.

There have been numerous reports alleging sexual assaults against U.S. citizen students by Manuel Blanco Vela, a representative of a tour operator based in Seville, Spain. Conduct research online to determine who owns and operates tour companies to make informed choices.

Many sexual assaults occur at night or during the early morning hours. In most cases, assailants take advantage of alcohol or drugs to make victims more vulnerable.

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence should call the toll-free emergency number in Spain, 016, for assistance, and the U.S. Embassy in Madrid at (34) 91-587-2200 or U.S. Consulate General Barcelona at (+34) 93-280-2227. Note that the local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.

Victims of Crime:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence, sexual assault or other violent crimes are encouraged to report crimes to the local emergency services at 112 and contact the U.S. Embassy, Consulate, or consular agency for assistance . Note that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care  
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police 
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent 
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion 
• Provide a list of local attorneys  
• Provide information on  victim’s compensation programs in the United States
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution 
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home 
• Replace a stolen or lost passport 

Demonstrations  occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. 

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable, avoid areas around protests  and demonstrations .  
• Past demonstrations have turned violent.   
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories. 

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information.

Financial scams are prevalent in Spain. Beware of anyone asking for money, particularly people who establish a “romantic” relationship online or anyone who claims the Spanish authorities are asking them for money. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited emails and letters. Scammers almost always pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help. Common scams include:   

• People claiming to be U.S. military personnel
• Romance/Online dating 
• Money transfers 
• Grandparent/Relative targeting 
• Free Trip/Luggage 
• Lotteries 
• Inheritance notices 
• Work permits/Job offers 

Tourism: The tourism industry is generally regulated, and rules [with regards to best practices and safety inspections] are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage, and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities prior to practicing or operating a business. 

Furthermore, some violations of laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking illegal drugs in Spain are severe and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.

Most cities in Spain have banned the consumption of alcohol in the street, other than in registered street cafes and bars. You could be arrested or fined if you break the law.

Local police, sometimes dressed in plain clothes, can require you to produce identification to establish your identity upon request and detain you for further questioning. Carry a photocopy of your passport with you as proof of your identity. If you are stopped by someone who claims to be a plainclothes police officer, ask to see their law enforcement identification.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police to notify the U.S. Embassy Madrid or U.S. Consulate General Barcelona immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also have to pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Department of Justice website for more information. 

Faith-Based Travelers:  See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTQI+ Travelers:  There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTQI+ events in Spain. 

See our LGBTQI+ Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.  

Travelers with Disabilities: The law in Spain prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual or mental disabilities, and the law is enforced. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is as prevalent as in the United States. In general, public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure are accessible. Taxis that can accommodate wheelchairs are available, but usually must be booked in advance.

In historic areas and older areas, sidewalks can be narrow and have uneven surfaces. Take this into account when planning your visit.  There may be differences in small towns and villages, where accessibility may be more limited.

Rental, repair, replacement parts for aids/equipment/devices, or service providers, such as sign language interpreters or personal assistants are widely available in Spain.

Students:  Follow the tips below and exercise caution and good judgment to make your study-abroad experience a positive and safe one. If you are coming to Spain to participate in a sports program, please check with the  Embassy of Spain  that you have the correct visa.

Do your research before contracting a tour operator or other service provider, including coaches and organizers of sports camps, schools, and training centers.

Exercise caution when agreeing to an internship or to serve as a recruiter for a specific organization or company. Most arrests, accidents, and violent crimes U.S. citizens suffer in Spain involve excessive alcohol. Drink in moderation and stay in a group of friends when in clubs, bars, or traveling.

See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers : The U.S. Mission in Spain has received numerous reports of sexual assaults affecting U.S. citizens, especially younger travelers, students, and exchange teachers. Please see more information under Safety and Security.  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

Good medical care is available in Spain. However, regulations regarding medications vary from those in the United States. Spanish regulations do not permit the international shipment of medication . Do not ship medication from the United States to Spain . Spanish customs authorities will reject and return to the shipper medication mailed from the United States. This may cause a significant delay in receiving your medications. The U.S. Embassy cannot help you retrieve medications stopped by Spanish customs.

Medications requiring prescriptions in the United States also require a local doctor’s prescription in Spain. In some instances, a medicine prescribed in the United States will not have a local equivalent. It is important that travelers research this on the  European Agency for Medication  website prior to travel.

For emergency services in Spain, dial 112. You may ask for an English-speaking attendant.

Ambulance services are widely available. 

We do not pay medical bills . Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance. Medical care is not free in Spain. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility. Lack of payment may bar future travel to Spain.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See  our webpage  for more information on insurance overseas. Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas. We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation. 

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the embassy to ensure the medication is legal in Spain. 

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)  

Air Quality:  Visit  AirNow Department of State  for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

The U.S. Embassy maintains  a list of doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic. 

Health facilities in general:

• Adequate health facilities are available throughout the country. Private hospitals usually require advance payment or proof of adequate insurance or funds before admitting a patient.  Medical staff may speak little or no English. Patients may be asked to bear costs for transfer to or between hospitals. 
• Patients have to pay their medical treatment in public hospitals.

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery:

• U.S. citizens have suffered serious complications or died during or after having cosmetic or other elective surgery.
• Medical tourism is a rapidly growing industry. People seeking health care overseas should understand that medical systems operate differently from those in the United States and are not subject to the same rules and regulations. Anyone interested in traveling for medical purposes should consult with their local physician before traveling and visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information on Medical Tourism.

Pharmaceuticals: U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit the  U.S. Customs and Border Protection  and the  Food and Drug Administration  websites for more information.

Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy: If you are considering traveling to Spain to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please see our  ART and Surrogacy Abroad page . 

Surrogacy is illegal in Spain and subject to complex local regulation. 

Adventure Travel: Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about  Adventure Travel .

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety : Road conditions in Spain can differ significantly from those in the United States. Drivers and pedestrians should exercise increased caution as traffic in Madrid and Barcelona is often faster-paced than in the United States and can be unnerving because of unfamiliar signs and traffic lights and different driving habits, including motorbikes weaving between traffic lanes.

Obey the traffic light located at your stop line, as there are separate traffic lights for each side of the intersection. Be alert when driving at night in urban areas; you may encounter drivers or pedestrians under the influence of alcohol.

Night driving in isolated rural areas can be dangerous because of farm animals and poorly marked roads.

Rural traffic is generally heavier in July and August as well as during the Christmas and Easter seasons.

Emergency services, including roadside assistance, are plentiful, competent, and can be easily accessed by dialing 112 from any phone.

Traffic Laws: You must obtain an International Driving Permit prior to your arrival if you plan to drive in Spain. The permits are only valid for one year.

It is illegal to rent a vehicle if you don’t have an International Driving Permit. Your rental car may be impounded, and you will be required to pay a fine if stopped by the police.

It is against the law to use a mobile phone without a hands-free device while driving. There is a €300 fine for violating this regulation, and you may also lose your license.

All drivers and passengers are required to buckle up (even in taxis and in the backseat) and wear a reflective vest if they need to stop on the roadside. A reflective triangle warning sign is also mandatory if you stop on the roadside.

You must have liability insurance to operate any car or motorcycle.

If you are stopped by the Spanish National Police or the Guardia Civil, they may levy fines on the spot and issue a receipt for payment. This ensures that foreigners pay their fines while still in Spain.

Public Transportation:  Public transportation in large Spanish cities is generally excellent.

Only use clearly identified cabs, ensure that taxi drivers always switch on the meter (except for fixed-fare trips originating to and from the Madrid airport), and ask for a receipt.

Private transportation companies (such as Uberor Cabify) are often used in Madrid and Barcelona but check private transportation websites for operating status before arrival.

Official taxis to and from the Madrid airport to the city center charge a €30 flat rate.  Official taxis to and from the Barcelona airport to the cruise ship terminal charge a €39 flat rate.

Rail service is comfortable and reliable but varies in quality and speed. Intercity buses are usually comfortable and inexpensive.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information. 

Aviation Safety Oversight:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of Spain’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Spain’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page . 

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to Spain should also check for  U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the   U.S. Coast Guard homeport website  and the  NGA broadcast warnings .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Spain . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, learn about your destination, enroll in step.

Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad.

Recommended Web Browsers: Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome.

Make two copies of all of your travel documents in case of emergency, and leave one with a trusted friend or relative.

Afghanistan

Antigua and Barbuda

Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba

Bosnia and Herzegovina

British Virgin Islands

Burkina Faso

Burma (Myanmar)

Cayman Islands

Central African Republic

Cote d Ivoire

Curaçao

Czech Republic

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Dominican Republic

El Salvador

Equatorial Guinea

Eswatini (Swaziland)

Falkland Islands

France (includes Monaco)

French Guiana

French Polynesia

French West Indies

Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Martin, and Saint Barthélemy (French West Indies)

Guinea-Bissau

Isle of Man

Israel, The West Bank and Gaza

Liechtenstein

Marshall Islands

Netherlands

New Caledonia

New Zealand

North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea)

Papua New Guinea

Philippines

Republic of North Macedonia

Republic of the Congo

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Lucia

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Sao Tome and Principe

Saudi Arabia

Sierra Leone

Sint Maarten

Solomon Islands

South Africa

South Korea

South Sudan

Switzerland

The Bahamas

Timor-Leste

Trinidad and Tobago

Turkmenistan

Turks and Caicos Islands

United Arab Emirates

United Kingdom

Vatican City (Holy See)

External Link

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

Eclipse 2026: The next total solar eclipse will be Europe's 1st in 27 years

The next total solar eclipse will occur on Aug. 12, 2026.

• Why so special?

Path of totality

• Where and when will it be visible?
• Partial solar eclipse viewing locations
• Upcoming total solar eclipses

Additional resources

It's been a long time since a total solar eclipse passed through Europe, but on Aug. 12, 2026, totality will come to the extreme northwest and southwest of the continent. 

Visible in Greenland, western Iceland and northern Spain, the 2026 total solar eclipse will bring a maximum of 2 minutes, 18 seconds of totality the day before the peak of the annual Perseid meteor shower . 

However, this solar eclipse will be about weather and sight lines, as it will occur over potentially cloudy regions and will be relatively low in the sky. At its highest point, the eclipsed sun will be just 26 degrees above the horizon. 

Related: What's the difference between a total solar eclipse and an annular solar eclipse?

What's special about the Aug. 12, 2026, total solar eclipse?

In Iceland — in the auroral zone — the sun won't set until midnight, but the sky will get dark enough in the middle of the night for any faint auroras to become visible. In rural Spain, the skies will get much darker, making it the perfect destination to enjoy the peak night of the Perseid meteor shower, the strongest meteor shower of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, the night after the eclipse. 

The 182-mile-wide (293 kilometers) moon's shadow will take around 96 minutes to cross the planet. Touching down in Russia, it will pass across Greenland, touch western Iceland, cross the Atlantic Ocean and cover northern Spain, departing just east of the Balearic Islands. 

Cruise ships will either visit Scoresby Sund in Greenland or catch the longest possible totality just west of Iceland during a circumnavigation of the island nation. The country's capital and largest city, Reykjavik, will be a hive of activity for this eclipse, though it will pay to be mobile, with the Reykjanes Peninsula and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula both potential viewing regions. 

Spain is a risky viewing location for different reasons. The eclipse will arrive on the country's northwest coast very close to sunset, so it will be important to be somewhere with a clear view low to the western horizon. 

"Some parts of Spain have high mountains that can prevent us from seeing the sun during totality, so it is very important to select the location carefully," Oscar Martín Mesonero, an eclipse chaser and astronomer at Startrails in Salamanca, Spain, told Space.com. "On the east coast, the sun will be only 4 degrees high, so any building or small mountain could ruin the view — and traffic there will be very bad."

From Mallorca, the eclipse will occur almost on the horizon, and sight lines will be tricky. 

"Mallorca is a touristy place, and prices will be very high," Mesonero said. "There are few roads and lots of mountains, so you will have to choose the site very carefully — any small obstacle could cause you to miss the eclipse — but if you succeed, you will have a spectacular view of the eclipsed sun over the sea with a golden corona!" 

Ibiza, Formentera and Menorca may be easier and more affordable options, but totality there will be much shorter.

Where and when can I see the August 2026 total solar eclipse?

Here are some of the places eclipse chasers will gather for the total solar eclipse on Aug. 12, 2026:  

What will the weather be like for the Aug. 12, 2026, eclipse?

This is an eclipse with a dilemma. "In a way, Iceland is better because the sun will be higher in the sky," Graham Jones, an astrophysicist and science communicator at Time and Date , told Space.com. "By the time it reaches Spain, it's very low, which can be problematic." However, Iceland has a much higher chance of clouds. "It's a question of higher altitude and more clouds versus lower altitude and less clouds," Jones said. 

The coasts of Greenland and Iceland and the north coast of Spain are the most likely to have clouds. There are some potential bright spots — Scoresby Sund in Greenland, according to Eclipsophile — while the cooling of the land during the partial phases could cause convective clouds to dissipate across the path. 

To maximize the chance of clear skies, head for north-central Spain; the Castilla-La Mancha and Castilla y León regions are least likely to have clouds (but the most likely to have crowds). "It is possible that due to the day's heat, clouds form that affect the afternoon at the time of the eclipse," Mesonero said. "Having a vehicle to move around will be very important."

However, many eclipse chasers don't mind taking risks. "For people who have seen a lot of eclipses but never seen Iceland, a 40% chance of seeing it is a reasonable risk," said Victoria Sahami, owner and founder of Sirius Travel . "It was a no-brainer to put together an eclipse tour to Iceland — it's also where the longest totality is — but the best chance of clear skies will be in the Mediterranean off Mallorca." 

Where to see the partial solar eclipse on Aug. 12, 2026

A partial solar eclipse will be seen across Europe and some other Northern Hemisphere locations. Here's what will be seen from major cities and destinations in the partial eclipse zone:  

After August 2026, when is the next total solar eclipse?

After the total solar eclipse on Aug. 12, 2026, these are the dates and locations for the next total solar eclipses: 

• Aug. 2, 2027 : Spain, Gibraltar, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Egypt, Sudan, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Somalia, British Indian Ocean Territory
• July 22, 2028 : Christmas Island, Cocos Islands, Australia, New Zealand 
• Nov. 25, 2030 : Namibia, Botswana, South Africa, Lesotho and Australia 
• Nov. 14, 2031 : Pacific Ocean (totality), Panama (annularity) 
• March 30, 2033 : Russia, U.S. (Alaska) 
• March 20, 2034 : Benin, Nigeria, Cameroon, Chad, Sudan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan, India and China 
• Sept. 2, 2035 : China, North Korea, Japan 

Want to look further ahead? You can find a concise summary of solar eclipses out to 2030 on NASA's eclipse website . Read more about solar and lunar eclipses on EclipseWise.com , a website dedicated to predictions of eclipses, and find beautiful maps on eclipse cartographer Michael Zeiler's GreatAmericanEclipse.com and interactive Google Maps on Xavier Jubier's eclipse website. You can find climate and weather predictions by meteorologist Jay Anderson on eclipsophile.com . 

Bibliography

Anderson, J. (February 2024). Total Solar Eclipse

2026 August 12. Retrieved March 4, 2024 from https://eclipsophile.com/tse2026/

Bakich, M. and Zeiler, M. (2022). Atlas Of Solar Eclipses 2020-2045. 

https://www.greatamericaneclipse.com/books/atlas-of-solar-eclipses-2020-to-2045

Espenak, F. Solar Eclipse Prime Page: Total Solar Eclipse of 2026 August 12. Retrieved March 4, 2024 from: https://eclipsewise.com/solar/SEprime/2001-2100/SE2026Aug12Tprime.html

Jubier, X. (n.d.). Solar eclipses: Interactive Google Maps. Retrieved March 4, 2024 from http://xjubier.free.fr/en/site_pages/SolarEclipsesGoogleMaps.html

Time and Date. (n.d.). August 12 2026 Total Solar Eclipse. Retrieved March 5, 2024 from https://www.timeanddate.com/eclipse/solar/2026-august-12

Join our Space Forums to keep talking space on the latest missions, night sky and more! And if you have a news tip, correction or comment, let us know at: [email protected].

Get the Space.com Newsletter

Breaking space news, the latest updates on rocket launches, skywatching events and more!

Jamie is an experienced science, technology and travel journalist and stargazer who writes about exploring the night sky, solar and lunar eclipses, moon-gazing, astro-travel, astronomy and space exploration. He is the editor of  WhenIsTheNextEclipse.com  and author of  A Stargazing Program For Beginners , and is a senior contributor at Forbes. His special skill is turning tech-babble into plain English.

Eclipse expert Jamie Carter wins media award for extensive solar eclipse coverage

Those magic minutes during April 8's solar eclipse brought me to tears

12 of the best total solar eclipse 2024 photos from our readers

• Helio Lots of helpful info. Thanks. Reply
• View All 1 Comment

Most Popular

• 2 Saturn's ocean moon Enceladus is able to support life − my research team is working out how to detect extraterrestrial cells there
• 3 Why is it so hard to send humans back to the moon?
• 4 Eclipse expert Jamie Carter wins media award for extensive solar eclipse coverage
• 5 'Devil Comet' 12P/Pons-Brooks reaches peak brightness tonight. Here's how to see it