Since the UK left the European Union, travelling to Spain has become more regulated. One of the most common reasons UK citizens are denied boarding or entry is the 10-year passport rule. If you plan to visit Spain in 2025 — for a holiday, business, or to explore buying property — you must understand these requirements to avoid last-minute problems at the airport.
Why the 10-Year Rule Exists
Before September 2018, UK passport holders could carry over up to nine months from a previous passport onto a new one. This meant some passports appeared valid for longer than 10 years. Following Brexit, Spain and other Schengen countries recognise only the issue date: a UK passport is valid for entry for 10 years from the date of issue, not the printed expiry date.
The Two Conditions You Must Meet
- Issued within the last 10 years: On the day you enter Spain, your passport must have been issued less than 10 years earlier.
- Valid for 3 months beyond your return date: Your passport must remain valid for at least three months after the day you plan to leave Spain.
Both conditions must be met. Airlines and Spanish border officials verify the issue date and remaining validity.
Practical Examples
- Issue date: 15 March 2015 → You cannot travel to Spain on or after 15 March 2025, even if the expiry date is later.
- Planned return: 10 July 2025 → Your passport must be valid until at least 10 October 2025.
- Children’s passports (5-year validity) must also satisfy the 3-month post-return rule.
Who Is Affected?
- UK citizens travelling to Spain and other Schengen countries.
- Holidaymakers using the 90-day visa-free allowance.
- Second-home owners and property buyers making regular visits.
- Families with children, as children’s passports expire sooner.
Non-Schengen travel (e.g., USA, Turkey, Caribbean) may use different validity rules. The 10-year issue-date requirement applies within the Schengen area.
What Happens If You Do Not Comply?
If your passport does not meet these rules, you may be refused boarding by your airline or denied entry by Spanish border officials. Airlines are often stricter as they face penalties for carrying non-compliant passengers.
Checklist Before You Travel
- Check the issue date as well as the expiry date.
- Confirm validity for 3 months after your intended return.
- Renew early if in doubt; processing times vary.
- Review children’s passports carefully.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my passport has 6 months left but was issued more than 10 years ago?
You cannot travel. The 10-year issue-date rule overrides the expiry date.
Does this apply to all EU countries?
Yes. It applies across the Schengen area, which includes Spain, France, Italy, Portugal, Germany and others.
Can I travel if my passport expires 2 months after my trip?
No. Spain requires 3 months of validity after your planned departure. Renew before travelling.
Where can I check official information?
Consult current guidance from the UK Government and HM Passport Office. Always verify on gov.uk before travelling.
Why This Matters for Long-Term Stays and Property Owners
If you plan extended stays — using the 90-day rule or applying for visas such as the Non-Lucrative Visa, Golden Visa or Digital Nomad Visa — a compliant passport is the first requirement. Without it, you cannot begin any legal or residency process in Spain.
How Coast Law Firm Can Help
We assist UK citizens with buying property in Spain, relocation and visa procedures. Ensuring your passport and documentation are correct is the first step towards a smooth transition.
Conclusion
To travel from the UK to Spain in 2025, your passport must be issued within the last 10 years and valid at least 3 months beyond your return date. Check this now, not at the airport.