Spain, Canary Islands and Balearics travel rules as entry requirements all different

As Brits count down the days to their next holiday, it should be noted that Spain's entry requirements and rules depend on where you're heading off.

The country is one of the most popular destinations for UK tourists, but many Covid restrictions are still in place.

Travellers might be confused about the latest travel rules with the May bank holiday, Queen's Jubilee long weekend and summer already coming up.

Although the last of Scotland's Covid restrictions ended last week, overseas travel is a different beast.

In recent weeks, Spanish authorities have sparked confusion after they announced unvaccinated Brits could enter with a Covid test, only to U-turn on the decision hours later due to a misunderstanding, Manchester Evening News reported.

So, what are the latest travel rules for Spain, the Canaries and the Balearics?

We take a look at the entry requirements for Brits below.

Spain entry requirements

British tourists going to Spain will still face strict Covid rules (AFP via Getty Images)

Currently, unvaccinated Brits will not be able to enter as a tourist unless they can show proof of recovery.

As for local Covid rules, Spain recently relaxed its face mask rules meaning you'll no longer be required to wear these at indoor venues such as restaurants and bars.

The country has already axed a requirement to wear face coverings outdoors.

Vaccination

If you want to visit Spain, you'll need to show proof of either being fully vaccinated or having recently recovered from Covid.

To be considered as fully vaccinated you'll need to have completed a full vaccination course at least 14 days before travel.

If you completed this over 270 days (nine months) before travelling to Spain, you'll need a booster jab to qualify as fully vaccinated.

Although the rules apply to anyone aged 12 or over, Spain has eased its restrictions for unvaccinated teens, aged 12 to 17, who can visit if they have proof of a negative Covid test taken before travel.

Health form

If you are fully vaccinated, you do not need to fill out a pre-travel health form.

However, travellers entering with proof of Covid recovery or unvaccinated teens aged 12 to 17 will need to fill out a pre-travel online form, which must be completed no more than 48 hours before travel to Spain.

Canary Islands travel rules

Canary Islands' Covid rules require everyone to submit a health form (Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

In a recent holiday boost for Brits, the Canaries have ended their local Covid restrictions, which included removing capacity limits for venues such as bars and restaurants, and once again allowing dancing in nightclubs.

Vaccination

The Canaries' rules are similar to those of Spain; you need to be fully vaccinated or have proof of recovery to visit.

Again, unvaccinated teens aged 12 to 17 can visit provided they have proof of a negative test taken within 72 hours before travel.

You may also be required to show proof of a negative Covid test for your accommodation - check with your tour operator or travel agent.

If you're travelling to the islands from Spain, the Foreign Office travel advice notes: "To travel to the Canary or Balearic islands from mainland Spain, you may need to show a negative COVID test depending on the region you are travelling from. Check with your travel operator and the local authorities in your final destination for guidance on domestic entry requirements."

Health form

All travellers will need to fill out a pre-travel online form before visiting the Canaries.

Balearic Islands travel requirements

Going to Spain on holiday? The rules say you need to be vaccinated (AFP via Getty Images)

Vaccination

Travellers will need to be fully vaccinated against Covid if they want to enter the Balearics on holiday.

According to the Balearics Tourism Board website, proof of recent recovery or a negative Covid test will not be accepted for travellers arriving from the UK.

You can find out more on the tourism board website.

If you are travelling to the islands from Spain, the Foreign Office travel advice notes: "To travel to the Canary or Balearic islands from mainland Spain, you may need to show a negative COVID test depending on the region you are travelling from. Check with your travel operator and the local authorities in your final destination for guidance on domestic entry requirements."

Health form

Anyone entering the Balearic Islands will need to fill out a pre-travel health check form online. Children under 12 years of age are exempt from vaccination and testing requirements.