Passport Validity Rules: What Brits Travelling To Spain Need To Know

With Brexit, came change.

Many everyday tasks and activities that British residents and holidaymakers previously took for granted have become subject to new rules and red tape. Travel is one area where British nationals have seen important changes since the UK left the European Union, especially when it comes to passport requirements for visiting Spain.

One important change now affects how much validity you need on your passport before travelling to Spain. The UK's Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) regularly updates advice to help British citizens avoid travel mishaps and border issues. Understanding these new rules is key to having a hassle-free trip or settling comfortably as a resident in Spain.

Below we clarify the passport validity requirements for British nationals arriving in Spain, based on the latest updates as of August 2025. There are two main categories to keep in mind:

• British holidaymakers visiting Spain
• British nationals legally resident in Spain

British holidaymakers visiting Spain

If you're travelling to Spain for a holiday, business trip, or to visit a second home, you must ensure that your UK passport meets all Schengen entry requirements. Currently, you need at least 3 months validity remaining on your passport on the day you plan to leave Spain (or the wider Schengen zone).

It's not enough just to have a valid passport—the date it was issued is also important. Your passport must have been issued within the past 10 years as of the date you enter Spain. If you renewed your passport early, any extra months added beyond the standard 10 years do not count toward your validity for EU travel. Always check both the issue and expiry dates before you book your ticket or travel.

Example: If your passport was issued on 1 March 2015, and you plan to travel to Spain on 20 September 2025, you can only enter if your passport is valid and was not issued before 20 September 2015. This ensures both conditions are met: less than 10 years old, and at least 3 months’ validity left upon departure.

This rule applies to UK nationals visiting Spain, any EU country, or the broader Schengen area. Ireland is an exception, as British nationals can enter under the Common Travel Area without these specific passport validity requirements.

It's also important to remember the 90/180-day rule: As a non-EU visitor, you can spend up to 90 days in any rolling 180-day period within the Schengen zone, which includes Spain.

If you fail to meet these passport rules, you could be denied boarding by your airline or turned away at the border. Always use the UK government’s checker tool if you’re uncertain or contact your airline for clarification.

British nationals legally resident in Spain

If you live in Spain as a legal resident, the same passport rules on extra validity do not apply when you enter or leave Spain. You can travel with your valid passport, even if you have less than 3 months left, as long as you also show your Spanish residency document, such as a TIE card or Certificado de Registro de Ciudadano de la Unión. Airlines and border officials may request both documents to confirm your resident status, so carrying them together is essential.

If you need to renew your UK passport while living in Spain, you can do so online or via the British Embassy. For step-by-step guidance, visit our detailed page — How To Renew Your UK Passport When Living In Spain.

If your passport is lost or stolen while abroad, your nearest British consulate can assist with emergency travel documentation, but you should also resolve your residency paperwork immediately to avoid problems returning to Spain.

Additional reminders

— Always check the expiration and issue dates on your passport before every trip.
— Double check entry requirements on the UK Foreign Travel Advice for Spain site, as regulations can change.
— Ensure your airline or ferry company is aware of your residency status if you live in Spain.
— Renew your passport at least six months before it is due to expire to avoid last-minute stress.

With these requirements and tips, you can avoid unnecessary disruption to your plans, whether you are visiting Spain for leisure or making it your new home!

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