Spain travel advice

Travel Summary

• There is a high threat from terrorism in Spain. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. Recent attacks have taken place on the island of Mallorca (Majorca), in Burgos and in Bilbao in the North of Spain. See the Terrorism section of this advice for more details.
  
  
• There are confirmed human cases of the H1N1 virus (Swine flu) in Spain. If you are concerned about the outbreak of the H1N1 virus, there is a dedicated freephone number for British nationals overseas: (+44) 207 928 1010. You can check for updates through the Spanish Ministry of Health website: http://www.msc.es/en/home.htm (in Spanish). Tel: 901 400 100. You should also monitor local media reports for any developments and advice. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised its pandemic threat alert Phase to Level 6. The WHO website at: www.who.int/ has further details. Check Swine Flu for further information. Guidance on Pandemic Flu can be obtained on the UK Department of Health website at www.dh.gov.uk. There are currently no quarantine measures in place for Spain.
  
  
• Since mid-July, forest fires have spread across many of Spain's regions. Aragon, the Canary Islands, Catalonia and Murcia have been particularly badly affected. The fires have claimed a number of lives, mainly of firefighters. Visitors throughout Spain should be alert to the risk in rural areas and should take care to avoid any actions that could cause fires. Significant punishments exist for such actions, which include carelessness when disposing of cigarette ends.
  
  
• In March 2004, 192 people died and over 1400 were injured following bomb attacks on three trains in Madrid. A group purporting to represent Al Qa’ida claimed responsibility.
  
  
• Around 17 million visits to Spain each year are made by British nationals (Source: Instituto de Estudios Turisticos - IET). 5,430 British nationals required consular assistance in Spain in the period 01 April 2008 – 31 March 2009 for the following types of incident; deaths (1,825 cases); hospitalisations (741 cases) and arrests, for a variety of reasons (2,290 cases). During this period assistance was also requested with regard to lost or stolen passports (7,548 cases). You should also be alert to the existence of street crime. See the Crime section of this advice for more details. If you need to contact the emergency services in Spain call 112.
  
  
• On 1 January 2006 legislation came into effect across Spain which brought in controls covering smoking in bars, restaurants and other workplaces. Additional legislation has since come into effect bringing in more stringent controls on drinking & sexual activity in public places. This includes Spanish beaches, where regulations have increased significantly. Fines imposed for breach of regulations range from €30 to a maximum of €1500 .
  
  
• Since 19 June 2007, passengers flying to Spain have needed to supply to their airline details of their date of birth, nationality, and passport number before flying. This is part of EU-wide measures to improve security. Further information can be found at: Direct gov - Air Travel .
  
  
• We recommend that comprehensive travel and medical insurance is obtained before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. See General (Insurance) section of this advice and Travel Insurance for more details.

Safety and security

Terrorism

There is a high threat from terrorism in Spain. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. The Spanish authorities are fully aware of the impact of terrorism and take measures to protect visitors, but you should be vigilant. Disruptions from real or hoax terror attempts can be expected and a high level of alert is being maintained. You should follow the instructions of the local police and other authorities.

The Basque terrorist organisation ETA announced a 'ceasefire' in March 2006, and declared an end to this ceasefire on 5 June 2007. Their last major attack was on 30 December 2006, when a large car bomb exploded in the multi-storey car park at Terminal 4 of Barajas International Airport in Madrid, killing two people. ETA remains active. British nationals are not a target for ETA but there is a risk they may be caught up in an attack. Ten bombs exploded on trains in Madrid on 11 March 2004. 192 people died. A group purporting to represent Al Qa'ida claimed responsibility.

Recent terrorist activities :

• 09 August 2009 - following warnings given, there were four small controlled explosions in and around Palma de Mallorca (Majorca). No casualties were reported.
• 30 July 2009 - a bomb exploded in Palma Nova on the island of Mallorca (Majorca) killing two Civil Guard Officers. Although the Civil Guard barracks appears to have been the target, it was close to a tourist area. ETA subsequently claimed responsibility.
• 29 July 2009 - a van bomb exploded outside Civil Guard Barracks in Burgos causing minor injuries to 66 people.
• 19 June 2009 – a car bomb exploded in Bilbao killing one police officer. No other casualties were reported.
• 09 February 2009 - a car bomb exploded in the Campo de las Naciones area of Madrid (on the eastern outskirts, towards the airport). The Red Cross received a warning phone call in the name of ETA at 0730. No casualties are reported.
  

For more general information see Terrorism Abroad.

Crime

The great majority of the 17 million visits made to Spain by British nationals are trouble-free. But street crime does exist in the main tourist areas.

Personal attacks, including sexual assaults and rape are infrequent. Nevertheless attacks occur and are often carried out by other British nationals. You should also be alert to the availability and possible use of "date rape" and other drugs, including "GHB" and liquid ecstasy. You should purchase your own drinks and keep sight of them at all times to make sure they cannot be spiked. Female travellers in particular should maintain a high state of personal awareness during their time in Spain. Be aware that alcohol and drugs can lead you to being less alert, less in control and less aware of your environment. If you are going to drink, know your limit, and remember that drinks served in bars are often stronger than those in the UK. Avoid splitting up from your friends, and don't go off with people you don't know. For more general information see Rape and Sexual Assault Abroad.

Street crime is occasionally accompanied by violence. Remain alert and guard valuable personal items at all times. The majority of reported thefts are a result of items being left unattended or thieves using distraction techniques.

If you are a victim of crime, you should call 902 102 112 to make a denuncia (police report). Alternatively you can visit the Spanish Police's website: http://www.policia.es/denuncia/index.htm.

Drivers should be wary of approaches by bogus police officers, in plain clothes and travelling in unmarked cars. In all traffic-related matters police officers will be in uniform. Unmarked vehicles will have a flashing electronic sign on the rear window which reads "Policia" or "Guardia Civil", and normally have blue flashing lights incorporated into the headlights, which are activated by the Police when they stop you. In non-related traffic matters police officers may be in plain clothes but in any case members of the public have the right to ask police officers to identify themselves. The Guardia Civil or Police will ask you to show them your documents only and do not request that you hand over your bag or wallet. If in any doubt, drivers should converse through the car window and contact the Guardia Civil on 062 or the Spanish National Police on 112 and ask them to confirm that the registration number of the vehicle corresponds to an official police vehicle.

Thieves posing as Police Officers may ask to see wallets for identification purposes. Holders should proceed with precaution, first establishing that the officers are genuine. Should the police request ID, they should be shown your passport, driver's licence or other photographic identification. Genuine Police Officers would not request to see wallets or purses.

Motorists should be on the look out for "highway pirates" who target foreign registered and hire cars, especially those towing caravans. If you decide to stop to check the condition of your vehicle, you should be extremely wary of anyone offering help.

Lottery Scams

There have been complaints about lottery scams, in which a person receives what appears to be official notification from the Spanish Inland Revenue office (Hacienda) that they have won the Spanish lottery and are required to deposit an amount of money in a bank account to secure their substantial winnings. It is likely to be a scam if you have not entered a lottery, are asked to pay anything up-front or if the contact telephone number is for a mobile phone.

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

Political Situation

Spain Country Profile

Local Travel

In addition to this general travel advice for Spain, please also see the local travel advice for the region you are visiting, which can be found on the website of the British Embassy in Madrid at http://ukinspain.fco.gov.uk:

• Alicante (including the autonomous regions of Valencia, Murcia and Albacete)
• Barcelona (including the regions of Catalonia, Aragon, and the Principality of Andorra)
• Bilbao (including the regions of Leon, Palencia and Burgos in Castilla Leon)
• Ibiza (including Ibiza and Formentera)
• Las Palmas (including Gran Canaria, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura)
• Malaga (including Andalucia and the Spanish Autonomous cities of Ceuta and Melilla, in the North of Africa)
• Palma de Mallorca (including Mallorca and Menorca)
• Tenerife (including Tenerife, La Palma, El Hierro and La Gomera)

Gibraltar

Spanish border checks can cause delays to travellers crossing between Spain and Gibraltar.

Andorra

If you are travelling to Andorra, you should see Travel Advice for Andorra.

Road Travel

You should take particular care when driving in Spain as regulations and customs are different from those in the UK and the accident rate is higher. In 2008 there were 2,821 road deaths in Spain (source: El Pais). This is approximately 20% less than the number of road deaths reported in 2007.

It is a legal requirement for motorists travelling to or transiting Spain to carry two red warning triangles to be placed, in the event of an accident or breakdown, in front of and behind the vehicle. In addition, drivers must have a spare pair of spectacles (if needed for driving), a spare wheel, and a full set of spare bulbs plus the tools to change them. If at any time you have to descend from your vehicle due to accident or breakdown, or whilst awaiting the arrival of the emergency services, it is obligatory to wear a reflective jacket. Failure to do so could result in a heavy fine.

Also, carry a certificate of insurance in case you are stopped. If you have a car hire and have purchased the insurance, you should be given documentation. If you are using your home insurance, carry your certificate with you at all times. Keep in mind that this is generally only good for a stay of shorter than three months. If you are staying longer, contact your broker.

Spain has stricter drink driving laws than may other countries. The legal limit is 0.05%, and 0.01% for new drivers. They are serious about drink driving and have strict penalties such as heavy fines, loss of license and imprisonment.

Seat belts are required for all passengers, whether in the front or back seat of the vehicle. No children under the age of twelve should be in the front seat. Spain also has laws requiring small children to be in an approved child safety seat in the back seat. Your car hire agency can provide a seat for you, just let them know at the time your reserve the car.

Talking on mobile phones when driving is forbidden by Spanish law. This includes talking in your car when pulled over to the side of the road. You must be completely away from the road. You can talk with a completely hands-free unit. Using an ear piece is also prohibited.

For more general information see Driving Abroad.

Rail Travel

On 3 July 2006, there was a serious accident on the metro in the city of Valencia, causing 42 fatalities, and injuring 39.

Air Travel

The revised EU-wide security measures that came into effect for all passengers departing from UK airports in November 2006 are also being implemented in Spain. For more general information see Airline Security.

Local laws and customs

Respect Spanish laws and customs. Parents should be aware that Spanish law defines anyone under the age of 18 to be a minor, subject to parental control or adult supervision. Any unaccompanied minors that come to the attention of the Spanish local authorities (for whatever reason but particularly in connection with criminal incidents or when in hospital) are deemed to be vulnerable under the law and face being taken into a Minors’ centre for their protection until their situation is resolved and a parent or suitable guardian can be found.

There is a requirement to provide proof of your identify if requested by a Police Officer. The only legally acceptable documents by Spanish Police are a passport or a national identification card. The Spanish Police have the right to hold you at a police station until your identity is confirmed.

On 1 January 2006 restrictive legislation against smoking in public places came into effect. Fines imposed for breaches of the regulation could range from €30 to a maximum of €600.

In Spain, possession of even a small quantity of drugs can cause significant problems, such as arrest and detention. Being found in possession of large quantities will probably result in prosecution and a custodial sentence upon conviction.

Some regional Governments in Spain have banned the consumption of alcohol in the street. Failure to respect this law may result in the imposition of fines. Please check the local travel advice for the region you are visiting.

Hotels have a legal obligation to register the passport details of tourists on check-in. You are advised to wait until the Hotel staff have registered your passport details or taken a photocopy of your passport, rather than leaving the passport in reception and collecting it later. It may help to take your own photocopy.

For more general information for different types of travellers see Travel Advice Relevant to You.

Entry requirements

Visa Requirements

If you are a British Citizen or British Subject with Right of Abode in the United Kingdom, you do not require a visa to enter Spain. Other British Nationals should confirm the current entry requirements with their nearest Spanish Diplomatic Mission.

Passport validity

A valid British passport must be held for entry to and exit from Spain. There is no minimum passport validity requirement but you should ensure that your passport is valid for the proposed period of your stay.

Staying for longer than three months

Since 28 March 2007 all EU citizens planning to reside in Spain for more than three months are required to register in person at the Foreigner's Office (Oficina de Extranjeros) in their province of residence or at designated Police stations. However, you will no longer be issued with a residence card and, instead, you will be issued a certificate stating your name, address, nationality, identity number and date of registration. The certificate serves as confirmation that the registration obligation has been fulfilled, but it is not recognised by the local authorities as a valid form of identification and you are not obliged to keep the certificate with you. See the Local Laws and Customs section of this advice for acceptable forms of ID.

Unaccompanied minors

You should be aware that each airline has its own policy regarding unaccompanied minors, and may require prior notification before arranging for them to travel. It is therefore essential to consult your airline before travelling.

Health

The Form E111 is no longer valid. You should obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) before leaving the UK. The EHIC is not a substitute for medical and travel insurance, but entitles you to necessary medical treatment on the same terms as Spanish nationals. You will not be covered for medical repatriation, on-going medical treatment or treatment of a non-urgent nature. For more general information see EHIC and NHS - About the EHIC.

In the 2008 Report on the Global AIDS Epidemic the UNAIDS/WHO Working Group estimated that around 140,000 adults aged 15 or over in Spain were living with HIV; the prevalence rate was estimated at around 0.5% of the adult population. This compares to the prevalence rate in adults in the UK of around 0.2%. You should exercise normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS. For more general information on how to do this see HIV and AIDS.

H1 N1 - Swine Flu

There are confirmed human cases of the H1N1 virus (Swine Flu) in Spain. You can check for updates on the number of cases and their location through the Spanish Ministry of Health website: http://www.msc.es/en/home.htm (in Spanish). You should also monitor local media reports for any developments and advice. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised its pandemic threat alert Phase to Level 6. The WHO website at: www.who.int/ has further details. Check the Swine Flu for further information. Guidance on Pandemic Flu can be obtained on the UK Department of Health website at www.dh.gov.uk.

Tel: 0800 1 513 513 (from UK only). If you think you have caught the H1N1 virus, you should stay indoors and contact your local authority/helpline:

Alicante - 900 100 355 (Spanish - translation service available)
Andorra - 180 211 22 (English)
Barcelona (Catalunya) - 902 111 444 (English)
Barcelona (Aragon) - 902 555 321 (Spanish)
Ibiza - 112 (English)
Las Palmas - 112 (English)
Madrid - 901 400 100 (Spanish)
Malaga - 902 505 060 (Spanish - translation service available)
Palma - 112 (English)
Tenerife - 112 (English)

Avian Influenza (Bird Flu)

There has been one reported case of Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) in Spain, discovered in Álava in July 2006. No human infections have been reported.

The risk to humans from Avian Influenza is believed to be very low. No human infections or deaths have been reported. But as a precaution you should avoid places where you may come into close contact with domestic, caged or wild birds; and ensure poultry and egg dishes are thoroughly cooked.

You should read this advice in conjunction with Avian and Pandemic Influenza, which gives more detailed advice and information.

General

Insurance

We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling especially full “dangerous sports” insurance cover. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. For more general information see Travel Insurance.

If things do go wrong when you are overseas then this is How We Can Help.

Registration

Register with our LOCATE service to tell us when and where you are travelling abroad or where you live abroad so our consular and crisis staff can provide better assistance to you in an emergency. More information about registering with LOCATE can be found here.

Money

Since 15 June 2007 new legislation on the controls of cash entering or leaving the EU apply in all Member States. Any person entering or leaving the EU will have to declare the cash that they are carrying if this amounts to €10,000 or more; this includes cheques, travellers' cheques, money orders, etc. This will not apply to anyone travelling via the EU to a non-EU country, as long as the original journey started outside of the EU nor to those travelling within the EU.

Contacting a British Consulate office in Spain

For telephone numbers and the location of British Consulates in Spain see: http://ukinspain.fco.gov.uk/en.

Opening hours, telephone numbers and addresses of all British consular posts in Spain can be found by clicking on “consular offices”. For urgent consular assistance outside office hours (e.g. arrest, death, rape, hospitalisation). see 'Contact Details' below.

Purchase of Property, Time-share Ownership and Holiday Clubs

If you intend to purchase a property in Spain you are advised to engage an independent local lawyer. A full list of English speaking lawyers can be found on the British Embassy's website - http://ukinspain.fco.gov.uk/en. British nationals purchasing property in Spain are recommended to deal only with established and reputable estate agents or with other contacts whom they know to be reliable and genuine, and to make all payments within bank premises and/or through banking channels. Make sure that the full purchase price of the property is reflected on the escritura (deeds) and do not pay 'black money' in cash to the seller, even if persuasive arguments about taxes are advanced: you could end up having to pay the capital gains tax that should have been paid by the person from whom you bought your new home.

In the Valencia Autonomous Community (the Provinces of Castellon, Valencia and Alicante) and, increasingly, in other parts of Spain your land tenure rights can be severely curtailed by local legislation. Should your ownership of property in these Provinces be threatened by local legislation you should engage the services of a lawyer immediately. Also, you should contact the NGO, Abusos Urbanisticos No for more information and details on how they may be able to help. Please note that the British Consular Services cannot help specific property cases.

Time-share ownership is well established in Spain with many known and respected companies, agents and resorts operating legally, fairly and successfully. However, there are equally many unscrupulous companies in operation, some of which claim to provide various incentives (including stock market investments and discounts on airfares and accommodation) when exchanging existing time-share ownership or taking out membership of holiday clubs. More often than not, such inducements do not materialise once a deal has been signed and sealed. If you are approached by agents operating such schemes, you should treat the approaches with the utmost caution.

Further information and advice is available from:
The Organisation for Time-share in Europe (OTE)
Time-share Consumers Association (TCA) and
European Consumer Centre (ECC)

Purchases of Tobacco products for export

Regulations on import of tobacco products into the UK vary from the amount allowed to be exported from Spain, particularly for cigarettes. You should check this carefully before you leave Spain. If you do not have the right documentation to export more than the normal limit, you may be fined and your consignment seized.

Outdoor Sports

If an accident occurs whilst mountaineering, canyoning, potholing or climbing, or if you become lost in the mountains or other areas requiring mountain rescue, call the Emergency Services on 112, or dial 062 for the Civil Guard.

For advice on safety and weather conditions contact:

Tel. 0207 486 8077
Fax. 0207 486 8034

Further information can be found on:

http://www.goski.com/weather/
http://www.avalanches.org