Violation of the rules of stay: Spain warns Britons they face three-year entry ban

British tourists who frequent Spain are being warned of a possible three-year entry ban if they break a key travel rule. Spain's 90-day overstay rule applies to non-EU nationals, including Britons on vacation.

After Brexit, UK citizens can stay in Spain or any EU country for a total of 180 days, with a maximum of 90 days. This rule has caused problems for some vacation homeowners who can spend only six months in their sunny corner. This information was published by stokesentinel.co.

It is estimated that between 800,000 and one million British citizens own property in Spain. However, only 370,000 are registered as residents and can come and go freely.

There are severe penalties for overstaying in the country, including significant fines and even a ban on entry. Depending on how long you stay in the country beyond the established period, fines can range from 500 to 10,000 euros.

If travelers exceed the 90-day visa-free stay limit, they may be banned from returning to Spain or any other Schengen country for up to three years. The entry ban may also be accompanied by a fine.

Spain has been pushing for the 90-day limit to be abolished, but it looks like this rule will be applied more strictly when the new EU entry/exit system (EES) comes into effect in October. It is designed to keep a closer eye on people coming from outside the EU, recording when and where they enter and leave, as well as details such as fingerprints.

Instead of manually stamping their passports, tourists will have to scan them at self-service machines at the airport. Then, in mid-2025, another new system will be launched. This will mean that people from outside the EU will have to request a travel permit before they can enter the EU.

People going on vacation will have to request permission online or via a mobile app. The new European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) will check these requests against EU border records. Most people will receive a permit within a few minutes, but some may require additional checks that could take up to 30 days. These checks will be carried out using EU border and security information logs. Most people will receive confirmation within a few minutes.

However, the European Commission has said that some people may need additional checks, which could keep them waiting for up to 30 days for a permit. Once you receive your ETIAS authorization, it will be valid for three years or until your passport expires (whichever comes first). After that, it will need to be renewed. The application fee is £6 for those aged 18 to 70. If you are under 18 or over 70, you will not have to pay, but you will still need to apply.

Earlier, TravelWise wrote that Israel plans to introduce e-visas.