UK Tourists Face New Rules to Visit Spain, Greece, or France in Matter of Weeks: What You Need to Know

 

As travel restrictions evolve and new regulations are set in place, UK tourists are about to face significant changes when planning trips to popular European destinations like Spain, Greece, and France. With the post-Brexit landscape and the European Union’s (EU) introduction of new travel systems, these upcoming rules will affect everything from documentation requirements to entry procedures. If you're planning to visit any of these countries in the next few weeks, it’s important to understand how these changes might impact your travel experience.

Let’s explore the new rules UK tourists will need to comply with, starting from the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) to the Entry/Exit System (EES), and how these changes will affect your trips to Europe.

1. Introduction of ETIAS: What It Means for UK Tourists

One of the most critical changes UK travelers need to prepare for is the introduction of the ETIAS, or the European Travel Information and Authorisation System. Although this system has been in the works for some time, it is expected to come into effect within the next few months, significantly impacting the way UK citizens can enter Schengen Zone countries like Spain, Greece, and France.

What is ETIAS?

ETIAS is a visa waiver program designed to improve border security and monitor non-EU visitors traveling to Schengen Zone countries. While ETIAS is not a visa, it will function similarly to the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) used by the United States. It requires travelers to apply for authorization online before they travel.

How Will ETIAS Work?

Once ETIAS is fully operational, UK tourists will need to:

• Apply Online: The ETIAS application process will take approximately 10 minutes. You’ll need a valid passport, email address, and credit or debit card to pay the small fee (about €7). The authorization will be valid for three years or until your passport expires.

• Approval: Most applications will be approved within minutes, though some may take longer, especially if additional checks are required. ETIAS authorization will be checked electronically when crossing EU borders.

• Countries Impacted: ETIAS will be required for all Schengen Zone countries, including Spain, Greece, and France, but also other popular European destinations like Italy, Germany, and Portugal.

2. The New Entry/Exit System (EES)

Alongside ETIAS, the EU is set to introduce a second significant change in its border control system: the Entry/Exit System (EES). This system is designed to replace passport stamps with a digital system that tracks travelers entering and leaving Schengen countries.

What is EES?

EES is an electronic system that will automatically register information about the entry and exit of non-EU citizens traveling to Schengen countries. It will record biometric data such as fingerprints and facial recognition, as well as details about the duration of your stay.

How Does EES Affect UK Tourists?

• Faster Border Crossings: Instead of waiting for manual passport stamps, travelers will have their biometric data scanned at automated kiosks. This is expected to speed up border crossings significantly, particularly during busy holiday seasons.

• Length of Stay Tracking: EES will track how long non-EU citizens stay within the Schengen Zone. UK tourists will be subject to the 90-day rule, which allows stays of up to 90 days within 180 days. Overstaying could result in fines or even future travel bans.

• Biometric Registration: Travelers will be required to provide fingerprints and facial images the first time they use the system. After that, the system will recognize returning travelers, simplifying future border crossings.

3. Passport Validity Rules and Travel Insurance

As part of these new travel regulations, UK tourists also need to be aware of updated passport validity requirements and ensure they have adequate travel insurance.

Passport Validity

Post-Brexit, the rules for passport validity have become stricter for UK citizens traveling to Schengen countries. To enter Spain, Greece, France, or any other EU destination, your passport must:

• Be valid for at least three months after your intended date of departure from the Schengen Area.
• Be issued within the last 10 years.

Failing to meet these requirements could result in being denied entry at the border, so it’s crucial to check your passport well in advance of your trip.

Travel Insurance

While travel insurance has always been important, it is now more essential than ever due to the lack of European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) coverage for UK citizens post-Brexit. UK tourists must ensure they have comprehensive travel insurance that covers health emergencies, cancellations, and other potential travel disruptions.

4. Visa-Free Travel Is Still Possible, But More Formalities Apply

Although UK citizens can still enjoy visa-free travel to Spain, Greece, and France for short stays, the introduction of ETIAS and EES adds new formalities that weren’t required before Brexit. For UK tourists, this means extra steps in preparing for their European holidays, especially during peak seasons when border crossings might experience delays due to the rollout of these new systems.

5. Plan Ahead to Avoid Delays

If you're planning a trip to Spain, Greece, or France within the next few weeks, here are some key tips to ensure a smooth travel experience:

• Apply for ETIAS Early: Although ETIAS approval should come quickly, it’s best to apply at least a few weeks before your trip in case of delays or additional checks.

• Check Your Passport: Ensure your passport meets the new validity rules for Schengen travel, and renew it in advance if necessary.

• Allow Extra Time at Borders: With the introduction of the EES system and new biometric requirements, it’s a good idea to arrive at the airport or border earlier than usual to account for potential delays.

• Purchase Comprehensive Travel Insurance: Ensure your travel insurance policy provides adequate medical coverage, especially since EHIC cards are no longer valid for UK citizens in EU countries.

6. Other Travel Considerations

Aside from these new systems, UK travelers should be aware of additional post-Brexit changes that may affect their trips to Spain, Greece, and France:

• Mobile Roaming Charges: Post-Brexit, the guarantee of free roaming across the EU no longer applies to UK travelers. Check with your mobile provider to see if additional charges apply when using your phone abroad.

• Pet Travel Rules: If you plan to travel with pets, ensure you comply with the new rules, which require an animal health certificate instead of the old pet passport.

• Driving in the EU: UK citizens who plan to drive in Spain, Greece, or France will need to carry a valid UK driving license and may require an International Driving Permit (IDP) in some cases.

Conclusion

The introduction of new travel rules such as ETIAS and EES marks a significant shift in how UK tourists will experience travel to Spain, Greece, France, and other Schengen countries shortly. While these changes may require some adjustment, being well-prepared can help ensure your European holiday goes smoothly. Make sure to apply for your ETIAS authorization, check your passport validity, and purchase comprehensive travel insurance to avoid any disruptions during your trip.