Updated 13/9/2019
This link will give you the most up to date information on travelling into Spain. This link also includes information not relating to the pandemic which you should always check whenever you are coming to Spain from another country.
COVID-19 entry requirements
Coming into Mallorca from the UK, if you are not fully vaccinated you must have a negative COVID-19 test. This can be a PCR, TMA, LAMP or NEAR test. It must be done within 72 hours of your flights arrival (local) time. If you are fully vaccinated you don’t need to take a test. (everyone over the age of 12 needs a negative test)
You need to prove your vaccination status by using the NHS app or by calling 119 for a paper copy.
You must fill out a mandatory pre travel declaration form which needs to be completed no more than 48 hours before travel and it is for you to declare any known exposure to COVID-19 and give your contact details. This can be done here. If you haven’t managed to submit this electronically before flying, you may be able to submit in paper form prior to boarding. BUT always double check this with your airline!
Regular (none COVID-19) entry requirements
Since Brexit happened on 1st Jan 2021, UK nationals are only allowed to stay in Spain for 90 days within a 180 day period. This is fine for those who just want to come on a summer holiday but is proving to be a big pain in the bum for those who have holiday homes here! People who spend 5-6months in Mallorca and the rest of their time in Uk, are no longer able to do so under the Brexit rules.
If you do wish to stay longer than the 90 days you must meet the Spanish government’s entry requirements. Check here to find out what these are.
If you are stopped at border control and questioned by a border control officer, you will be asked about your plans while in the country, you will be asked to show proof of your return journey and show that you have enough money to support you while you are in the country. You may be asked to show proof of your hotel accommodation and if you are staying with friends or family you may be asked to show a letter of invitation (carte de invitation) from them.
Passport
Make sure you check that your passport is valid for travel and that you have enough time left on it. You must have at least 6 months left on your passport to travel to Spain and most other EU countries. That’s six months on the date of your return to the UK.
If something goes wrong..
We all hope to have a great time on our holidays but what if something happens which is out of your control? If you think you need a doctor, you should contact your travel insurance as soon as possible, most have a 24hr number you can call who will advise you where you can seek medical attention.
The EHIC card is free. Do not spend money to get this, ensure you go to the NHS website and order this for your family. Do not use a third party site. The EHIC allows you to access state medical treatment within state facilities. Remember that there are a lot of private clinics in Mallorca and although they may look like they are British surgeries, they may charge you for access to their services. EHIC is not an alternative to travel insurance. If a private doctor or private facility is used, EHIC will not cover this and your travel insurance will need to be used.
Look for travel insurance that covers you from the booking stage if you can, that will likely give you the most cover if there is a need to cancel your holiday at a moment’s notice.
If you travelled on a package holiday, let your company know that you have been unwell and if you need assistance they are there to help!
If you travelled on your own then ask at the local bars and restaurants, the locals are always happy to help when you find yourself in a sticky situation.
It seems like a minefield but for most people it is just the general rules of travel!
The new requirements do seem to make it a little harder for people to enter Spain but as long as you are coming for a normal holiday you should be fine! Unfortunately it has put a big dampner on those who wish to come here for work and to retire here. Hopefully once things settle down these restrictions might ease slightly. Fingers crossed!