Millions of Brits flock to Spain every year, eager to soak up the Mediterranean sun and enjoy some downtime. The European favourite continues to be the top pick for UK holidaymakers, with Spain poised to welcome another wave of tourists throughout 2026.

While the prospect of a holiday is exciting, it’s crucial for those travelling abroad to be prepared. This is especially important in the post-Brexit era, which has introduced new regulations in recent years.

Before the UK’s departure from the European Union (EU), British passport holders could enter Spain without needing their passports stamped and there were no restrictions on the length of their stay.

However, now UK visitors are limited to a maximum of 90 days within any 180-day period in Spain, or any other country within the Schengen Area.

In addition, passports must show a “date of issue” from within the last ten years prior to arrival and an “expiry date” that extends at least three months beyond the intended departure from the Schengen zone.

According to Foreign Office advice, failure to comply with these requirements when travelling to Spain or other Schengen countries, including Greece, France, and Italy, could result in a prolonged ban.

Foreign Office advice for Spain, and all other Schengen nations, cautions: “If you overstay the 90-day visa-free limit, you may be banned from entering Schengen countries for up to 3 years.”

The Schengen area comprises Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Czechia, Croatia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, Norway, The Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland.