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Spain warns Brits that not following new document rule could mean £5,900 fine
Spain has introduced a new health insurance rule that British tourists must follow this summer or face a big fine
Brits jetting off to Spain this summer are being warned they risk a hefty fine of up to €6,900 (£5,900) if they fail to produce a specific document. The warning comes as part of a crackdown on travel regulations post-Brexit.
Spain's Ministry of the Interior and Ministry of Health introducing the new rule - and it has caught many tourists off guard. The rule requires British tourists to prove they have adequate health insurance.
The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), which some visitors previously relied upon, will not be sufficient cover, and Brits must now have private travel insurance that covers all medical expenses, reports the Express. According to Travel and Tour World, UK tourists must present proof of health insurance before entering Spain, which should 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, stated: "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."
Spanish authorities can deny entry at the border if tourists cannot provide proof of sufficient health insurance, and travellers already in Spain without proof may face fines of up to £5,900. The UK government has issued guidance on travel insurance for those visiting Spain, including a list of recommended insurance providers on its travel advice website.
It is also advised that Brits carry proof of insurance with them during their trip. A key warning is that tourists should not delay purchasing travel insurance until they are in Spain, as they will likely need to present proof of insurance before their flight.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office cautions: "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 further advise: "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."
The office also warns of the potential financial risks of travelling uninsured, stating: "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."
