Anyone traveling to Spain from EU or Schengen area countries will find it much easier to visit after the latest changes. All COVID-19 entry requirements have been scrapped, which is great news for the tourism industry. However, for those outside the EU or Schengen area will still face the rules.

Spain changes entry requirements

In what is deemed excellent news for the tourism industry, Spanish minister Reyes Maroto has confirmed that COVID-19 regulations are dropped for travelers from the EU or Schengen. However, travelers from elsewhere will still need to produce a negative test result.

Prior to the pandemic, Spain was the world’s second-most visited country. Meanwhile, there are plenty of reasons why this is the case. Whether it’s the endless beaches, delicious food and rich architectural heritage, the country will also draw many visitors post-pandemic.

However, unlike many other European nations, Spain has not yet scrapped all its travel restrictions and is still being cautious. However, as the world starts getting used to the idea of international travel again, Spain is expected to attract almost 90 percent of its 2019 tourism figures.

So, what do you need to know to plan your 2022 vacation in Spain? Read on to find out.

Latest entry requirements for Spain

Luckily for tourists from within the EU block or Schengen area, they will no longer need to produce any COVID-19 documents to enter Spain. However, those from outside the EU will be required to show proof of vaccination, a recovery certificate, or a negative test via the EU Digital COVID Certificate (EUDCC) or similar valid document.

Those who don’t have the certificate can complete Spain’s Health Control Form with all the necessary details, receiving a QR code to get through airports.

When required to produce a PCR or rapid antigen test, these must be taken within 72 or 48 hours prior to arrival respectively.

What does Spain consider fully vaccinated?

To be considered fully vaccinated by Spain, all travelers must have had their second vaccination at least 14 days before their trip. Moreover, the vaccine must be approved by the WHO or EMA. Meanwhile, as with other EU countries, Spain has set an expiration date of 270 days for vaccine passports.

Basically, if the second jab was more than nine months ago, travelers will be required to take a booster jab. However, for those who have had the booster jab, there is currently no expiration date.

Unvaccinated UK travelers can now travel to Spain

One major change is that UK citizens who have not received a COVID-19 vaccination can now travel to Spain. However, they must be able to prove they don’t currently have the virus. They will be required to produce a negative PCR test, taken within 72 hours of departure, or an antigen test taken within 24 hours.

Alternatively, UK travelers can produce a certificate of recovery at least 11 days after testing positive for the virus and which is valid for six months. In fact, unvaccinated UK citizens will need to complete the Health Control Form unless they have recently recovered from the virus.

Meanwhile, Spain will accept the NHS COVID Pass as proof of vaccination, whether digitally, or printed. However, double-jabbed UK citizens will not be required to take a test.

Children and teenagers

Children under the age of 12 are not required to produce proof of vaccination or undergo any tests. This applies to both mainland Spain and the Canary and Balearic Islands.

Meanwhile, children aged from 12 to 17 no longer need to be fully vaccinated and can travel with a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of arrival. In this case, antigen tests are not accepted.

Face mask rules in Spain

Spain has finally dropped the indoor mask-wearing regulation. In fact, they are no longer required in bars, cafes, museums, cinemas, etc. However, there are a couple of exceptions. Masks are still required on public transport, including planes, buses, metros, trains and taxis. They are also required when visiting pharmacies, medical facilities, or care homes.

Meanwhile, domestic rules can vary depending on the region of Spain, so always check prior to travel. The Spanish Tourism Board’s Travel Safe website has more information, including rules for each autonomous region in the country.