Schengen Entry Checks in Spain 2025 - Guide for Expats

Over the last year, Spain has quietly tightened its immigration controls at airports, ferry terminals, and land borders. These changes are part of wider EU reforms designed to modernise Schengen security and reduce overstays. For expats, second-home owners, digital nomads, and anyone who visits Spain regularly, it’s now more important than ever to know how your passport is being assessed when you enter or leave the country.

Why Are Schengen Entry Checks Becoming Stricter?

The EU is preparing two major systems: the Entry/Exit System (EES) and ETIAS. Although both are still being rolled out, Spain has begun reinforcing existing border rules to reduce overstays and improve identity verification. Officers are being instructed to pay closer attention to travel histories, passport stamps, proof of accommodation, and whether visitors genuinely qualify for visa-free entry.

The 90/180 Rule Is Now Being Enforced Much More Firmly

One of the biggest changes expats are noticing is strict enforcement of the 90 days in any rolling 180-day period. Border guards are manually checking stamps, entry records, and digital logs to confirm how long travellers have been in Spain or elsewhere in the Schengen Area. Several travellers have already been warned, denied entry, or questioned about previous stays.

If you spend long periods at your holiday home in Spain or regularly travel in and out of the EU, you should track your Schengen days carefully. Officers now expect you to know how many days you have left before overstaying.

More Questions on Arrival — Even for Frequent Travellers

Many non-EU citizens are reporting that officers are asking more detailed questions on arrival, including:

• How long are you staying?

• Where will you be staying in Spain?

• Do you have return flight details?

• Have you visited other Schengen countries recently?

• Do you meet the conditions of visa-free entry?

These questions are routine but can feel surprising for those who have travelled to Spain frequently without issue in the past.

Proof of Accommodation and Travel Plans

Border officers may now request evidence of a booked hotel, rental contract, or property ownership. If you own a second home in Spain, carrying basic proof (such as an IBI receipt or utility bill) can avoid delays. Travellers staying with friends or family may be asked for contact details or an invitation letter.

Financial Means Checks

Although rarely enforced in previous years, some travellers are now being asked to show proof of funds. This typically means a recent bank statement, credit card, or other evidence that you can support yourself during your stay. These checks mainly target travellers who appear unsure of their plans or exceed previous visit durations.

Passport Stamping Problems and Missing Stamps

One of the biggest headaches for expats is the inconsistent stamping of passports. A missing arrival or departure stamp can trigger suspicion of an overstay. If an officer forgets to stamp your passport, politely request one to avoid future complications.

Extra Scrutiny for Frequent Visitors and Property Owners

Expats who split their time between Spain and their home country are now being checked more closely. Officers want to ensure that long-stay visitors are not effectively residing in Spain without the correct visa or residence permit. If you regularly spend more than a few months a year in Spain, you may be questioned about your long-term intentions.

Entry Checks at Ferry Ports and Land Borders Are Also Increasing

It’s not just airports. Travellers entering Spain from France, Portugal, Morocco, and Gibraltar have also reported more detailed inspections. Vehicle passengers, in particular, are being asked about travel history, accommodation, and length of stay.

ETIAS and EES: What’s Coming in 2025–2026?

The new Entry/Exit System (EES) is expected to come into effect in 2025. When it launches, every non-EU visitor will be biometrically registered on arrival and departure — including fingerprints and facial scans. Later, ETIAS will become mandatory for visa-exempt travellers, requiring an online travel authorisation before entering Spain. These systems will automate much of the checking process, but in the meantime, manual checks have intensified.

Who Is Most Affected by the New Checks?

The groups experiencing the most strict entry controls are:

• UK passport holders

• Americans and Canadians

• Property owners who do not have residency

• Long-stay visitors returning frequently

• Digital nomads entering on tourist status

• Travellers who previously overstayed or had missing stamps

How to Avoid Problems at the Border

• Track your 90/180-day allowance accurately.

• Keep proof of your accommodation.

• Carry evidence of onward travel, even if flexible.

• Bring financial means (bank statement, etc.) when possible.

• Ensure your passport is stamped correctly.

• Be ready to explain your travel pattern if visiting frequently.

Should Expats Apply for Residency Instead?

If you own a property in Spain or spend long stretches living here, the tightening of border checks is a clear signal: Spain expects long-term residents to hold the correct residency permit. If you use Spain as a part-time home, the Non-Lucrative Visa, Digital Nomad Visa, or EU family residency may be worth considering.

Final Thoughts

Tougher Schengen entry checks are here to stay. Spain is not trying to discourage regular visitors, but it is enforcing the rules more strictly to prepare for future EU border systems. Being organised, carrying the right documents, and understanding the 90/180 rule will help ensure smooth entry — whether you're visiting for a holiday, checking in on your property, or spending an extended stay in the sun.

Need fully compliant private health insurance for visas or long-stay residency?

See our Sanitas private medical Insurance Options — a simple guide to choosing the right policy for residency, long stays, and visa applications in Spain.

Sources:

EU Entry/Exit System – Official EU Source

ETIAS – Official EU Information