UK travellers heading to several European countries this summer are being warned about a little-known rule that requires them to have at least £93 per day in their bank accounts. This requirement applies to each individual, so for a family of four, the total would be £372.
This rule is part of the Schengen Borders Code, which has been signed by 27 countries, including Spain, Portugal, Greece, and Italy. It states that travellers from outside the European Union must demonstrate sufficient funds to enter the country. The required amount varies between destinations; Spain's requirement is set at £93 per day, and other countries have similar regulations.
Spanish officials have been asking visitors to provide proof of a return or onward ticket and pre-booked accommodation, such as a hotel booking confirmation or proof of address if they are visiting friends or staying in their own property.", reports Birmingham Live.
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In a previous statement, Manuel Butler, the Spanish Tourist Office director (UK), said: “The requirement for UK travellers to be able to illustrate sufficient means for the duration of their stay and the return is established in the Schengen Borders Code and is not a Spain-specific requirement.”
He added: “This is not a new requirement and has been in place for some time for visitors from outside of the European Union or Schengen area.
“When entering Spain, these checks are not systematically carried out for every traveller." He pointed out that there are similar rules for visitors entering the UK, adding: "Likewise, travellers coming to the UK are also required to show that they have specific means to support themselves and any dependents for the duration of the trip and the ability to pay for the return or onward journey."
The Gov.UK page for entry requirements to Spain says UK nationals entering the Schengen zone as tourists may need to provide additional documents at the border. As well as a valid return or onward ticket, it is possible that travellers to Spain may also be asked to:
show you have enough money for your stay. More information is available from the Spanish Ministry of Interior (in Spanish).
show proof of accommodation for your stay, for example, a hotel booking confirmation, proof of address if visiting your own property (e.g. second home), or an invitation from your host or proof of their address if staying with a third party, friends or family. The Spanish government has clarified that the “carta de invitation” is one of the options available to prove that you have accommodation if staying with friends or family. More information is available from the Spanish Ministry of Interior.
