British tourists in Spain are being warned that failing to carry one crucial document with them could result in a hefty fine.
As a result of a new regulation introduced by Spain’s Ministry of the Interior and Ministry of Health, not having proof of sufficient health insurance can lead to a fine of up to €6,900 (£5,900). This change comes in response to post-Brexit travel regulations and has caught many British visitors off guard – much like the recent 11am to 3pm travel warning issued to tourists.
Speaking about the newly introduced regulation, Spain’s Minister of Health, Carolina Darias, said: “The health of our visitors is a priority. We are committed to ensuring that all travellers, including British nationals, have the necessary coverage to protect themselves and the local healthcare system.”
Carolina further explained that the measure had been designed in order to ensure all visitors to Spain are equipped with the necessary financial resources to cover the costs of medical care during their visit, so as to avoid straining the Spanish public healthcare system
The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is no longer valid, and tourists must purchase comprehensive insurance that covers all healthcare expenses abroad.
According to experts at Travel and Tour World, UK tourists may be required to show proof of health insurance documentation upon entering Spain, which includes emergency medical care, hospitalisation, repatriation, and coverage for pre-existing conditions.
Several travellers have been using the UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) in place of the EHIC, which provides the necessary state healthcare in the European Economic Area (EEA) as well as in some other countries, however the NHS warns: “The UK GHIC is not a replacement for travel insurance. We advise you to have private travel and medical insurance for the duration of your trip.”
The GHIC provides British travellers with the necessary state healthcare on the same basis as residents of that country, however it doesn’t include treatment at a private medical facility, being flown back to the UK for medical repatriation, or ski or mountain rescue.
Spanish authorities have the power to deny entry to tourists who fail to provide adequate proof of insurance, and those already in Spain without evidence may face the significant fine. With this in mind, the UK government has dished out crucial advice for Brits jetting off to Spain, highlighting a selection of insurance providers and stressing the importance of carrying proof of travel insurance.
Officials are also cautioning against buying travel insurance once in Spain, as you’ll likely need to present evidence of it upon entry.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has also issued a statement: “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.”
The advisory further states: “If you travel internationally you should buy appropriate travel insurance before you go, covering you for existing physical or mental health conditions (including those currently under investigation) and any activities you will be doing whilst you are away.
“If you do not have appropriate insurance before you travel, you could be liable for emergency expenses, including medical treatment, which may cost thousands of pounds.”