Spain has provided clarity over the confusion surrounding entry requirements for foreign visitors, including people from the UK, after rumours emerged suggesting they would be fined if they didn’t have private medical insurance. In the wake of reports that tourists who travel without insurance could be fined up to €6,900 at the border, Spain’s Ministry of Health has reiterated that no such law exists. And although travel insurance is not mandatory, the ministry highly recommends—if not, insists that—sojourners take out travel insurance with medical benefits, particularly for prolonged visits (e.g., those who plan to stay more than 90 days or who do not have an existing UK health card). This interpretation would make travel for all visitors easier and less stressful, so we present it here to help keep travel as seamless as possible.

Spain Clarifies New Travel Rule for UK Visitors and Dismisses Claims You’ll Need Travel Insurance to Enter Spain

Spain has responded to increasing speculation, and has officially spoken today over the latest claims of a new travel restriction for British holidaymakers. It has also been confirmed that UK holidaymakers will not have to take out private health insurance to enter the country, which has been a suggested requirement in the Spanish press in recent weeks. The news follows speculation that holidaymakers without insurance could face hefty fines at the border – as high as €6,900.

A spokeswoman for Spain’s Ministry of Health resolved the issue, explaining there was no such system in place that required people from the UK to provide evidence of their own health insurance before being allowed entry. These reassurances are meant to squelch fears that have been spreading ever since the stories began making rounds, nonsensically stirring up potential worry amongst travelers-to-be.

Uncertainty Over New Insurance Rule

The confusion arose when there were reports, which circulated, that UK citizens visiting Spain would be fined if they did not have private medical insurance. The news elicited concern for those travelers who may have thought their current health-care plan was adequate. It had been claimed that people travelling without cover would be subject to fines of up to €6,900, leading to confusion and anger in the UK travel industry.

However, health bosses in Spain have issued a blunt denial of the claims, telling MailOnline, there is no new law that requires British tourists to provide proof of take out private medical insurance. In a statement to Olive Press the Ministry issued an official statement to Olive Press and official spokesperson cleared up the rumors about fines.

Strong Recommendation for Travel Insurance

UK nationals are not required to show proof of private health insurance, though Spain’s Ministry of Health has advised that visitors have travel insurance which covers a wide-ranging list of medical services. This guidance is especially relevant for anyone considering a longer break, and those whose UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) or European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is no longer valid.

Iuch’s advice is consistent with advice given about any kind of travel: Travel insurance is recommended to help offset unexpected medical expenses overseas. Visitors without travel insurance could risk hefty expenses should they have a medical emergency and their UK health cover is no longer valid in Spain.

If you are intending a short trip for 90 days or less then GHIC and EHIC could still provide you with sufficient cover which includes emergency non routine medical care. For visits of over 90 days, though, insurance can offer peace of mind and an extra layer of cover.

Travel Insurance as Security Measure

The industry of travel insurances provides different types of insurance types depending on the requirements (eg: medical, trip, or lost baggage). Insurers advise travelers to carefully read the terms and conditions of their travel insurance product and ensure coverage includes adequate protection, specifically dealing with health and medical emergencies.

The growth in world travel has also made travel insurance more important than ever. Spain has reiterated to British tourists just how essential it is that visitors do what they can to ensure they maintain their health while on holiday.

Encouraging Safe and Informed Travel

As travel opens up further around the world, Spanish health authorities are ‘picturing’ what tourists will see when they step off the plane upon arrival to Spain. As travel interruptions and concerns rise, it is important for tourists to be familiar with the rules, regulations and safety regulations of the destination country.

Beyond medical costs, Spain recommends travelers from the UK look for other country-specific entry requirements or restrictions, which can differ by region or even by season. Staying current with official instructions can avoid surprises and keep your travel on track.

Spain clarifies entry requirements and confirms tourists do not need private medical insurance Spain has sewn up the confusion around who needs what to enter, with global tourists – including Brits – not needing to have private medical insurance in place for entry. There will be no fines, but the Health Ministry recommends travel insurance for an added layer of protection, which the longer-term travellers may purchase.

Spain’s Ministry of Health clarifies doubt over the requirement for uk tourists to have private medical insurance. There is no legal obligation to take out insurance other than that for medical cover, however it is highly recommended to take out travel and cancellation insurance to cover the duration of your stay. While the fines reports were inaccurate, the advice to take travel insurance is a sensible measure for any traveller venturing overseas.

As always, it’s good to stay informed and prepared, and to have a travel experience as safe and stress-free as possible.