Spain’s 90-Day Rule for UK Travelers in 2025 – Will It Be Scrapped?

Since Brexit, travel between the UK and EU countries has become more complex, especially for those who frequently visit European destinations. One of the most significant restrictions has been the Spain 90 day rule, which limits how long UK citizens can stay in Spain and other Schengen countries without a visa. In 2025, this rule continues to affect thousands of UK travelers—holidaymakers, retirees, digital nomads, and second-home owners alike.

Despite rumors and ongoing diplomatic conversations, the brexit travel changes remain in place, and Spain has not scrapped the 90-day rule as of 2025. This article explores the current state of the rule, who it affects, and what UK citizens need to know to remain compliant when planning trips to Spain.

What Is the Spain 90 Day Rule?

The spain 90 day rule refers to a Schengen-wide immigration policy that restricts third-country nationals—including UK citizens post-Brexit—from staying in the Schengen area for more than 90 days within any 180-day period without a visa.

Here’s what it means in practical terms:

• You can spend up to 90 days (in total, not consecutive) in Spain and other Schengen countries within any 180-day window.

• After using your 90 days, you must leave the Schengen area for at least 90 days before re-entering.

• The rule applies regardless of your reason for travel, including tourism, visiting family, or short-term work.

This rule became active for UK nationals on January 1, 2021, and is enforced across the Schengen Zone, which includes Spain, France, Germany, Italy, and 23 other countries.

Who Is Affected by the Rule in 2025?

In 2025, the uk to spain travel experience still includes careful planning due to this rule. Groups most affected include:

• Retirees with second homes in Spain who used to spend 4–6 months at a time abroad

• Digital nomads or remote workers who wish to live temporarily in Spain without applying for a residence visa

• Frequent tourists who combine Spain with other Schengen countries in their travel plans

• Family visitors staying with relatives or assisting elderly parents in Spain for extended stays

Even staying for a few days in multiple Schengen countries counts toward your 90-day total. Many travelers find themselves caught out by this, mistakenly assuming they can spend 90 days in each country.

Has Spain Scrapped or Eased the Rule in 2025?

Despite heavy lobbying by British expat groups and pressure from Spain’s tourism industry, the spain 90 day rule remains in effect in 2025. Spain does not have the authority to unilaterally scrap this rule, as it is part of the Schengen Agreement. Any exemption for UK citizens would require a treaty-level change, approved by the European Union.

However, there are important updates:

• Talks between Spain and the UK are ongoing to explore bilateral mobility arrangements, but no final agreement has been reached.

• Spanish lawmakers have submitted motions to the EU requesting flexibility for British homeowners with proof of long-term stays.

• Spain’s Ministry of Tourism continues to advocate for a special extended-stay category, especially to benefit the economy during off-peak months.

While these developments offer hope for future policy change, they do not change the fact that brexit travel changes are still in full effect.

What Can You Do If You Want to Stay Longer?

If you plan to stay in Spain beyond 90 days in any 180-day period, you must apply for a long-stay national visa. Options include:

• Non-lucrative visa: For retirees or financially independent individuals who want to reside in Spain but not work

• Digital nomad visa: Available as of 2024, this visa allows remote workers and freelancers to live in Spain legally for up to five years

• Golden visa: For property investors who invest at least €500,000 in Spanish real estate

• Student visa: For those enrolling in full-time educational programs

Each visa has specific income requirements, paperwork, and renewal conditions. These allow travelers to legally extend their stay beyond the spain 90 day rule and avoid fines, deportation, or bans.

FAQs

Can UK citizens still travel to Spain without a visa in 2025?

Yes, but only for up to 90 days within any 180-day period under the Schengen rules.

Has Spain scrapped the 90-day rule for British travelers?

No. The 90-day rule is still enforced as of 2025. Only the EU can modify this rule, not Spain alone.

What happens if I overstay the 90-day limit?

Overstaying can result in fines, deportation, and even a travel ban from the entire Schengen area.

Can I apply for a visa to stay longer in Spain?

Yes. Options include the non-lucrative visa, student visa, digital nomad visa, and golden visa, depending on your purpose.

Do days spent in other EU countries count toward the 90-day total?

Yes. All time spent in the Schengen Zone, including other EU countries, counts toward your 90-day limit.

Click here to know more.