UK tourists in Spain issued £5,950 holiday warning over new rules

Britons heading to Spain have been warned they could face a fine of up to almost £5,950 if they fail to provide adequate health insurance cover. Spanish authorities announced the new rule as the peak summer holiday season is set to begin with the start of the six-week school break.

The change is said to be part of efforts to tighten travel restrictions post-Brexit. UK holidaymakers must provide proof of health insurance before entering Spain. The European Health Insurance Card, known as EHIC, which millions of travellers once regularly carried, has been replaced by the UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), which can be used in dozens of European nations, including Spain.

Spanish health minister Carolina Darias said: “The health of our visitors is a priority.

“We are committed to ensuring that all travellers, including British citizens, have the necessary coverage to protect themselves and the local health system.”

The insurance taken out by Britons is required to meet a specific criterion set by Spain’s health ministry, reports the Majorca Daily Bulletin.

It is said the insurance must cover emergencies, hospital stays and other important medical services.

Ms Darias said the regulation change will help avoid further pressure on Madrid’s public health system.

The Spanish authorities can refuse entry at the border if tourists do not provide proof of sufficient health insurance.

Travellers who are already in Spain and unable to show proof may be fined up to £5,950.

The UK and EU agreed in December 2020 that EHIC cards, which are valid for five years, could still be used up until their expiry dates.

The Government's travel advice for Spain states: “To get medically necessary state healthcare in Spain, you need a Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) or a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).

“A GHIC or EHIC is not an alternative to travel insurance. You may have costs your GHIC or EHIC does not cover, including: changes to travel and accommodation bookings, additional standard costs for treatment, medical repatriation to the UK, treatment that is ruled non-urgent.”

Britons are also encouraged to have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation before travelling, according to the GOV.UK travel advice.

The NHS website advises travellers to have a GHIC or EHIC card and private travel and medical insurance for the duration of their trip.

In 2023, 17.8 million UK residents visited Spain, making up 21% of total overseas visits.