Summary: UK passport holders can spend up to 90 days in any 180-day period in Spain and other Schengen countries. Breaching that limit can result in penalties, including a ban of up to three years from re-entering the Schengen Area.

Spain remains one of the most popular destinations for British travellers, but UK passport holders now face stricter Schengen rules after Brexit. Under current regulations, overstaying the permitted period can lead to severe consequences, including a possible three-year ban from Spain and other Schengen states. Travellers should confirm documentation and monitor their days in the zone before travelling in 2026.

What changed since Brexit

Before the UK left the EU, British citizens could enter Spain and many other European countries without formal limits on short stays. After Brexit, UK travellers are treated as third-country nationals in the Schengen Area and must follow the standard visa-free regime that applies to many non-EU visitors.

Key rules UK travellers must know

  • 90-day visa-free limit: UK visitors may spend no more than 90 days in any 180-day period across Spain and other Schengen countries.
  • Passport validity: Passports must have been issued within the last 10 years and remain valid for at least three months after the planned exit from the Schengen zone.
  • Overstaying penalties: Staying beyond the 90/180 limit can lead to a ban of up to three years from entering the Schengen Area.
  • Cross-border effect: A ban or marking affects entry to all Schengen states, not only Spain.

Who is affected and how

Both leisure visitors and business travellers from the UK must track cumulative days spent in the Schengen Area. Those used to longer stays or repeated short trips across different Schengen countries may find the new limits restrictive. Overstays can lead to a flagged passport, making future travel to Spain, France, Italy, Germany, Greece and other Schengen nations difficult or impossible.

Traveller with UK passport at a European border control desk, checking documents
UK travellers should check passport validity and count days in the Schengen Area to avoid penalties

Consequences for business and tourism

Companies arranging business trips, conferences or long stays in Spain must ensure employees do not exceed the allowed time. An executive who overstays could be refused re-entry, potentially disrupting meetings, events and operations in the Schengen Area.

How to avoid overstaying — practical steps

  • Check passport validity: Confirm your passport was issued within the last 10 years and remains valid for at least three months after your planned Schengen departure.
  • Monitor your days: Keep a running total of days spent in Spain and other Schengen countries to remain within the 90/180 rule.
  • Apply for a visa when needed: If you plan to stay longer than 90 days, obtain the appropriate long-term visa in advance.
  • Stay updated: Follow guidance from the UK Foreign Office and official Spanish government portals for the latest rules.
  • Avoid multiple short trips that cumulatively exceed 90 days in a 180-day period.

Additional traveller tips for 2026

  • Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers immigration-related issues and unexpected travel disruption.
  • If travelling with pets, ensure vaccinations and microchipping comply with Spain’s rules.
  • Start long-term visa applications early — procedures can take time.
  • Check health and safety requirements, including any remaining COVID-19 measures before travel.

Key takeaways

UK passport holders must respect the 90 days in any 180-day period rule across the Schengen Area, verify passport validity, and apply for visas for longer stays. Non-compliance can result in fines, a marked passport and up to a three-year ban from Spain and other Schengen countries.

Why this matters: For travellers, the rules change how trips to Spain and neighbouring Schengen nations must be planned—especially for repeat visitors and business travellers. For the travel industry, stricter enforcement increases the need for clear advice and visa support services to prevent disruptive penalties.