We all know that travel has taken a major hit in the past year and a half due to the pandemic. With various waves hitting different parts of the world, restrictions and entry requirements have been constantly changing. One of the countries that has had its fair share of travel restrictions is Spain. So, is Spain on the amber list? The short answer is yes.
The UK government has placed Spain on the amber list of countries for travel, which means that anyone travelling to the country will have to complete a mandatory 10-day quarantine period upon their return. However, travellers can reduce their quarantine period to five days by taking a COVID-19 test on day five of their arrival, and getting a negative result.
While the amber list designation may sound daunting to some, it’s important to keep in mind that travel is still possible and that Spain has a lot to offer visitors, from its beautiful beaches to its vibrant cities. With proper planning and precautions, travellers can still make the most of their time in the country. So, if you’re looking to explore Spain and soak up some sun this summer, just make sure to do your research and stay safe!
Amber Travel List
Spain is one of the countries that are currently on the amber travel list. The amber travel list is a list of countries that are deemed to be at moderate risk for COVID-19 transmission. Travelers arriving in the UK from these countries must quarantine for ten days, take two PCR tests, and complete a passenger locator form. They may also be eligible for the Test to Release scheme, where they can take an additional COVID-19 test on day five of their quarantine to end isolation early if negative.
What does it mean to be on the Amber Travel List?
- Arrivals from Amber List countries must self-isolate at home or in the place they are staying for ten days
- Two COVID-19 tests must be taken during the quarantine period, on days two and eight, before traveling to the UK and after arrival
- Travelers may be able to end quarantine early by taking an additional test on day five through the Test to Release scheme
- Only UK and Irish citizens and UK residents may enter from Amber List countries
Why is Spain on the Amber List?
Spain is currently on the Amber List due to its COVID-19 situation. Although the country has made significant progress in reducing the number of cases and increasing vaccination rates, it still has higher case rates than the UK. The Delta variant is also present in Spain, and the UK government is closely monitoring the situation.
Can I still travel to Spain?
Yes, you can still travel to Spain, but you must follow the guidelines on the Amber List. It is essential to check the latest travel advice before booking your trip as the situation can change quickly. Make sure you have adequate travel insurance that covers COVID-19-related incidents and check with your airline or travel provider for their latest policies.
Conclusion
Spain is a popular tourist destination, but it is currently on the Amber List due to COVID-19. Travelers must follow the rules and take the necessary precautions when returning to the UK from Spain. Always check the latest travel advice before booking your trip and make sure you have adequate travel insurance. By doing so, you can protect yourself, your loved ones, and other people you come into contact with.
| Amber List Guidelines | Details |
|---|---|
| Quarantine | 10 days at home or in the place you are staying |
| COVID-19 Tests | Two tests must be taken, on days two and eight, before travel and after arrival |
| Test to Release | Travelers may be eligible to take an additional test on day five to end isolation early |
| Entry | Only UK and Irish citizens and UK residents may enter from Amber List countries |
Always remember to follow the guidelines set out by the UK government when returning from Amber List countries. By doing so, you can help protect yourself and others from COVID-19.
Covid-19 Restrictions
The ongoing Covid-19 pandemic has brought about restrictions in travel and other activities around the world, including Spain. There have been different levels of restrictions imposed by the Spanish government at various times since the outbreak began, depending on the severity of the local and national situation.
- International travel to Spain is currently allowed from certain countries, though some restrictions may apply depending on the country of origin. Visitors who have been fully vaccinated against Covid-19 are generally allowed to enter Spain, regardless of where they are coming from. Travelers must also complete some form of health screening, such as a negative PCR test result or proof of full vaccination.
- Face masks are mandatory in public spaces throughout Spain, both indoors and outdoors, with a few exceptions such as when eating or drinking. Social distancing rules also apply, with people required to stay at least 1.5 meters apart from others outside their own household.
- Most businesses and establishments, including restaurants, cafes, and bars, are allowed to operate at limited capacities to ensure social distancing. Opening hours may be restricted, especially in areas with higher Covid-19 cases.
It’s worth noting that the restrictions in Spain can change at short notice, depending on the Covid-19 situation. Travelers are advised to regularly check official government websites or speak to their travel provider for the latest updates.
Here’s a table summarizing the most recent Covid-19 restrictions in Spain:
| Type of restriction | Implementation |
|---|---|
| Mandatory mask wearing | Both indoors and outdoors in public spaces (including on public transport) |
| Restrictions on gatherings | Up to 10 people indoors and 15 people outdoors |
| Business closures | None currently in place, though some limitations on capacity and opening hours may apply |
| Travel restrictions | Visitors from certain countries may face restrictions, health screenings such as negative PCR tests or proof of full vaccination are required |
In summary, while Spain remains on the amber list, travelers are still able to visit with restrictions in place. With proper planning, face masks, and adherence to social distancing rules, visitors can still enjoy Spain while staying safe and healthy.
Vaccination Passport
As Spain is currently on the amber list, travelers should be aware of the latest entry requirements. One such requirement is the vaccination passport.
- A vaccination passport is a document that proves you have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or have recently recovered from the virus.
- Travelers who possess a valid vaccination passport may be exempt from quarantine or testing requirements upon entry into Spain.
- It is important to note that each country has its own guidelines for vaccination passports. Before you travel, make sure to check the specific requirements for the country you plan to visit.
Spain currently accepts vaccination passports from the European Union and Switzerland, as well as from countries outside of the EU that have been approved by the Spanish government.
Additionally, Spain has recently announced the implementation of its own digital vaccination passport, which is expected to be available from the end of June 2021. The passport will be available in both Spanish and English and will contain important information, such as the type of vaccine administered and the date of the last dose.
| What information might be included in a vaccination passport? |
|---|
| Name and contact information |
| Date of birth |
| Type of vaccine administered |
| Date of last dose |
| Proof of recent recovery from COVID-19 (if applicable) |
Travelers should keep their vaccination passport with them at all times and be prepared to present it at border control. While this may add an extra step to the travel process, having a vaccination passport can help ensure a smoother entry into Spain and potentially avoid quarantine or testing requirements.
International Travel Guidelines
As the world slowly emerges from the shadows of the global pandemic, international travel remains a topic of concern. Spain, like most other destinations, has been cautious in opening their borders to tourists. The United Kingdom’s government recently placed Spain on the “amber list” of countries, which means that returning UK citizens must self-isolate for ten days upon returning to the UK and take two COVID-19 tests. Here are some international travel guidelines to keep in mind if you plan to visit Spain:
- Before you travel, ensure that you have a valid passport and any required visas.
- Check the current travel restrictions, quarantine regulations, and entry requirements for Spain on the official Government of Spain’s website as these can change frequently.
- Be prepared to take a COVID-19 test before departure and another on arrival in Spain.
COVID-19 Restrictions in Spain
Spain has been hit hard by COVID-19, and the Spanish government has implemented strict measures to help curb the spread of the virus. These measures include:
- Mandatory use of masks in public places and indoors.
- Sanitizing hands often and maintaining social distancing.
- Restrictions on the number of people allowed to gather in public and private spaces.
COVID-19 Testing in Spain
To enter Spain, visitors may be asked to present a negative COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of arrival. Testing facilities are widely available in all major cities, and visitors can book appointments online without any hassle. At most testing centers, visitors have the option to pay for a rapid test with results available within a few hours or a PCR test with results available within 24-48 hours.
Keeping Safe While Traveling
It’s essential to follow the recommended COVID-19 guidelines wherever you are traveling. This means washing your hands, wearing a mask in public areas, and practicing social distancing. It’s also a good idea to research the local COVID-19 guidelines and restrictions at your destination before you depart.
| Restrictions and Guidelines in Spain | Details |
|---|---|
| Masks | Mandatory in public spaces and indoor spaces |
| Gatherings | Restrictions on the number of people allowed to gather in public and private spaces |
| Testing | Visitors may be asked to present a negative COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of arrival |
In summary, Spain has instituted strict measures to combat the spread of COVID-19. While the country is open to tourists, visitors should remain vigilant and follow the recommended COVID-19 guidelines. Ensure that you check the latest travel restrictions, entry requirements, and quarantine regulations on the official Government of Spain’s website before making any travel plans. Stay safe, and enjoy your visit to Spain!
Quarantine Rules
If you are travelling to Spain and find that it is on the amber list, you will need to be aware of the quarantine rules in place. The rules vary depending on your country of origin and whether you have been fully vaccinated or not. Below are the key quarantine rules that you need to know:
- If you have been fully vaccinated with an EU-approved vaccine at least 14 days before arriving in Spain, you do not need to quarantine.
- If you have not been fully vaccinated, you will need to quarantine for 10 days.
- If you have been in a country on Spain’s red list in the past 14 days, you will be refused entry unless you are a Spanish citizen or resident.
It’s worth noting that these rules can change at short notice, so it’s important to keep up to date with the latest information before travelling. You should also check the rules for your home country, as some may require you to quarantine on your return from Spain.
If you do need to quarantine, there are some important things to keep in mind. You will need to stay in your accommodation for the full 10-day period and not leave for any reason, except in certain limited circumstances such as to seek medical assistance. You should also try to avoid contact with others as much as possible, and follow all the standard rules on social distancing and wearing masks.
Table – Quarantine Rules for Different Countries
| Country of Origin | Vaccinated | Unvaccinated |
|---|---|---|
| UK | No quarantine | 10-day quarantine |
| United States | No quarantine | 10-day quarantine |
| Canada | No quarantine | 10-day quarantine |
| Australia | No quarantine | 10-day quarantine |
As you can see from the table, the rules for quarantine depend on your country of origin, regardless of your vaccination status. Make sure to check the rules for your specific country before you travel.
Tourism industry
The tourism industry in Spain contributes significantly to the country’s economy. In 2019, the industry accounted for 12.4% of Spain’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), generating €153 billion in revenue and providing employment to over 2.6 million people. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a severe impact on the tourism industry in Spain, with the country being added to the UK’s amber list in May 2021, resulting in a significant reduction in visitors.
- The Spanish government has taken measures to support the tourism industry, such as offering subsidies to businesses, extending credit lines, and reducing taxes. Also, the government has introduced health and safety measures, including the implementation of social distancing, the use of masks, and increased cleaning and disinfection.
- The Spanish tourism industry is gradually recovering, with domestic tourism picking up after restrictions were lifted following an earlier lockdown. However, it is still uncertain when foreign tourists will return to Spain in significant numbers. The uncertainty has also affected job prospects, with many people in the industry finding themselves without work or with reduced hours.
- The Spanish government is working on a recovery plan for the tourism industry, focused on attracting visitors from key markets such as the UK, Germany, France, and the Netherlands. The government plans to invest in promoting Spain as a safe and attractive destination and offering incentives to travelers.
The following table highlights the number of international visitors to Spain from 2015 to 2019, giving an indication of the impact of the pandemic which saw the number of visitors plummet in 2020:
| Year | Number of international visitors |
|---|---|
| 2015 | 68.1 million |
| 2016 | 75.3 million |
| 2017 | 82 million |
| 2018 | 82.6 million |
| 2019 | 83.7 million |
Despite the current challenges faced by the Spanish tourism industry, its potential remains significant, and the government’s efforts to bring it back to full speed are commendable.
Travel insurance
One of the most important things to consider when planning a trip to Spain, or any international destination, is travel insurance. Even in the best case scenario, unforeseen events can happen while traveling, such as accidents or illnesses. In the worst case scenario, a global pandemic can occur, which can cause serious disruptions to travel plans.
- Make sure to research and purchase a travel insurance policy that covers any potential issues that may arise, such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations or interruptions, and emergency evacuations.
- It’s important to read the fine print of the policy to understand what is covered and what is not. For example, some policies may not cover pre-existing medical conditions or adventure activities such as bungee jumping or scuba diving.
- Consider purchasing a policy that includes coverage for COVID-19 related issues, including medical expenses, trip cancellations, and quarantine expenses. With Spain currently on the amber list, it’s important to be prepared for any potential disruptions to travel plans due to COVID-19 restrictions.
It’s also advisable to check what your credit card or bank may offer in terms of travel insurance. Some credit cards offer travel insurance as a perk, but it’s important to check the terms and conditions to understand what is covered and any limitations.
Overall, travel insurance is an essential part of trip planning, especially during these uncertain times. It can provide peace of mind and financial protection in case anything goes wrong during your trip to Spain or any other international destination.
| Things to consider when purchasing travel insurance |
|---|
| Medical coverage in case of illness or injury |
| Coverage for trip cancellations or interruptions |
| Emergency evacuation coverage |
| Coverage for pre-existing medical conditions |
| Coverage for adventure activities |
| Coverage for COVID-19 related issues |
Ultimately, the best travel insurance policy is one that offers comprehensive coverage and fits your specific travel needs.
Is Spain on the Amber List: FAQs
1. What does it mean that Spain is on the Amber List?
The Amber List is a classification of countries made by the UK government to indicate the COVID-19 risk level when traveling to these countries. When a country is on the Amber List, it means that there is a moderate risk of COVID-19 transmission, and travelers returning to the UK from that country must follow specific rules and regulations.
2. What are the requirements for traveling to Spain from the UK when it’s on the Amber List?
If you travel to Spain from the UK when it’s on the Amber List, you must provide evidence of a negative COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours before you travel. You must also complete a pre-travel declaration form online no more than 48 hours before your arrival in Spain.
3. Can I travel to Spain for tourism when it’s on the Amber List?
Yes, you can travel to Spain for tourism when it’s on the Amber List. However, the UK government advises against non-essential travel to Amber List countries, and returning travelers must isolate for ten days. Additionally, travelers must take two COVID-19 tests during the isolation period, on days two and eight.
4. Can I get a refund if I cancel my trip to Spain due to it being on the Amber List?
It depends on the terms and conditions of your travel booking. Some companies offer flexible cancellation policies, while others may have specific COVID-19 cancellation policies. It’s worth checking with your travel provider to see what options are available.
5. What happens if I test positive for COVID-19 while in Spain?
If you test positive for COVID-19 while in Spain, you must follow Spanish health guidelines, which may include self-isolation or treatment in a hospital. You must also inform your travel insurer and contact the British Embassy or Consulate for further assistance.
6. How often does the Amber List get updated?
The Amber List gets updated regularly based on the latest COVID-19 data and variants of concern. The UK government recommends that travelers regularly check the Amber List before making travel plans to ensure they understand the latest rules and regulations.
7. Is it safe to travel to Spain when it’s on the Amber List?
Traveling to Spain when it’s on the Amber List is considered moderately safe, and the Spanish government has implemented measures to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission. However, it’s essential to take precautions such as wearing a mask, practicing good hygiene, and social distancing.
Closing Thoughts: Thanks for Reading
Thank you for reading this article about Spain being on the Amber List. We hope that we have provided you with useful information for planning your travel. Please remember to check the latest Amber List updates before making travel plans to ensure that you follow the latest rules and regulations. Stay safe, and we hope to see you again soon.