Brits heading to Spain this summer have been issued an urgent warning. They could be fined up to €6,900 (£5,900) for failing to provide a specific document.
It comes amid ongoing efforts to tighten travel regulations following Brexit. Spain’s Ministry of the Interior and Ministry of Health recently introduced the new rule that has caught a number of tourists off guard. British tourists travelling to Spain now need to be able to prove adequate health insurance.
While most typically rely on the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), this document is no longer valid. Brits must now have private travel insurance that covers all medical expenses.
As reported by Travel and Tour World, tourists from the UK are now forced to present proof of health insurance before entering Spain. It is expected to cover emergency medical care, hospitalisation, repatriation, and not have excessive deductibles or exclusions for pre-existing medical conditions.
Spain’s Minister of Health, Carolina Darias, said: “The health of our visitors is a priority. We are committed to ensuring that all travelers, including British nationals, have the necessary coverage to protect themselves and the local healthcare system.”
The Spanish authorities are able to refuse entry at the border if tourists cannot provide proof of sufficient health insurance. Meanwhile, travellers who are already in Spain and unable to show proof may be fined up to £5,900.
The UK government has provided a list of recommended insurance providers on its travel advice website. They also advise Brits to carry proof of insurance with them when they travel to Spain.
Tourists are urged not to buy travel insurance while they’re in Spain. This is because they will likely have to show proof of insurance before boarding a flight into the country.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office said: “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.”
They added: “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.”