Urgent Travel Warning To Spain:  The Health Insurance Rule For British Nationals 

British holidaymakers heading to Spain this summer are being warned: travel without the right health insurance, and you could face a fine of up to €6,900 (£5,900) or even be denied entry.

The Spanish government has tightened its entry requirements for non-EU travellers, including UK citizens. One of the key changes is that British tourists must now show proof of adequate private health insurance before entering Spain.

How to Avoid the Fine

To avoid any issues at the border—or a hefty fine once in Spain—British travellers must have private travel insurance in place before departure. 

Here’s what you need to do:

Buy insurance before your trip: Purchase travel insurance that begins from the moment you leave the UK. Buying it after arriving in Spain will not be accepted at the border.

Make sure it covers everything: The insurance must cover:

• Emergency medical treatment
• Hospitalisation
• Medical repatriation
• No excessive deductibles
• Pre-existing medical conditions (must not be excluded)
  

Carry proof with you: Print or digitally save a copy of your insurance policy and be ready to show it at immigration.

Don't rely on EHIC: The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is no longer valid for British nationals in Spain. Even if you still have a card, it won't be accepted.

Why This Rule Matters

Spain’s Ministry of Health says the move is designed to protect both tourists and the national healthcare system. If you’re caught without insurance, you could be fined thousands—or worse, refused entry at the airport.

Health Minister Carolina Darias emphasised:

“The health of our visitors is a priority. We are committed to ensuring all travellers, including British nationals, have the necessary coverage.”

The UK’s Foreign Office also stresses the importance of getting the right policy:

“If you travel internationally, you should buy appropriate travel insurance before you go… If not, you could be liable for emergency expenses, including medical treatment, which may cost thousands.”

Where to Get Covered

The UK government’s travel advice website includes a list of recommended insurance providers. Choose a plan that meets Spain’s requirements and reflects your travel plans, such as hiking, water sports, or long stays.

If you're heading to Spain, make sure you're fully covered before you go. A few minutes spent arranging the right insurance can save you from a £5,900 fine—and a ruined holiday.

Need help getting the right travel insurance? Our team can help you secure the correct documents for a smooth and stress-free trip to Spain.

Are you heading to Spain in the coming days? Talk to us in the comment section below. Or if you need more advice on the above, contact us for further travel & immigration advice.

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Charlie

Travel and Immigration Writer and Client Relationship Manager at IaM (Immigration and Migration)

Charlie is IaM’s resident Travel & Immigration Writer and Client Relationship Manager. They craft clear, engaging guides that demystify complex visa and migration rules - and then personally supports each client through every step of their journey.

Over the past 6+ years, with IaM, and working in the travel and immigration sector, Charlie has authored 200+ in-depth guides on Schengen, UK visas & other destinations they have relocated 1,000+ families safely through the system. A Clockwork Practitioner, Charlie also works hard to streamline operations and adheres to the mantra "Task Clients Well".

When they’re not translating policy into plain English, you’ll find them scouting new destinations, collecting local stories, and mastering a new language to better serve our global community.

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