Will British Tourists in Spain be Subject to the £97 ‘Daily Rule’?

UK tourists have expressed frustration over Spain’s new rule requiring travellers to have £97 per day to stay in the country. The regulation, which applies to both mainland Spain and popular islands like the Canaries and Balearics, has raised concerns among holidaymakers with limited disposable income.

The rule, implemented by Spanish authorities, aims to ensure that visitors can financially sustain themselves during their stay and return to their home country at the end of their trip. The UK Foreign Office has issued a warning to Britons traveling to Spanish holiday destinations, informing them of the additional border checks they may face.

While the rule has been in effect since January 1, 2022, it initially required £85 (€100) per day per person. Now, travellers must have €113.40 (£97) on hand each day they are in Spain.

Failure to meet these financial requirements could result in denial of entry, although Spanish authorities have stated that no tourists have been refused entry for not having enough money. Other European countries in the Schengen area have similar rules in place, with varying daily financial requirements for visitors.

As the number of UK visitors to Spain continues to rise, reaching 17.3 million in 2023, it is essential for travellers to be aware of and prepared to meet these financial requirements to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.