The move affects travellers coming from more than 60 countries from 23rd November, including most EU member states. The negative PCR test must be taken no more than 72 hours before arrival in Spain and must be issued in English or Spanish, in paper or electronic format.

Who is affected?

This measure applies to travellers coming by sea or air, not to arrivals through land borders. Exemptions may apply for yacht crew demonstrably in transit to a boat that is departing imminently, or from a boat to outside Spain, departing without delay.

Exemptions will also apply for arrivals who may have been unable to undergo a PCR test within the 72 hour window, having been continuously at sea or arrived from a departure point where tests are unavailable. 

In each instance, arrivals seeking an exemption are advised to check with us and we will consult with the local health authority for a confirmed exemption for your circumstance.

High Risk Countries

For European countries of origin, Spanish authorities will rely on the risk map by the European Center for Disease Control (ECDC). For countries outside this area, the reference point will be the 14-day cumulative coronavirus incidence for every 100,000 inhabitants, with an incidence figure of over 150 requiring a negative PCR test. The list of high risk countries will be reviewed every 15 days. For details of the requirement and for the full list of countries, please visit https://www.spth.gob.es or consult the free app: SPAIN TRAVEL HEALTH-SpTH

Arrivals without a negative PCR test may be fined up to 6,000 euros — a level designed to dissuade — in addition to having to undergo a rapid test. Authorities may request to see the result of the test, which must be an original document, presented in paper or electronic format.

NB. Note that only a PCR test result will be accepted. Antigen tests, or any other type of test, including antibodies tests, do not meet the requirement.

Travel within Spain

The measure does not apply to arrivals in the Balearics from any part of Spain. However, arrivals into the Canary Islands from any part of Spain or from any high risk country, are required to present a negative PCR test result, irrespective of nationality.

Yacht Arrival

Health authorities in the Balearics are still in discussion on whether crew on board must have a negative PCR test before the yacht arrives.