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Understanding Spain's 90-Day Rule for UK Visitors
Understanding the 90-Day Rule for UK Citizens in Spain (2025)
Since the UK's departure from the EU, British citizens are subject to the Schengen Area's 90/180-day rule. This means you can stay in Spain—and other Schengen countries—for up to 90 days within any 180-day period without a visa.After reaching the 90-day limit, you must leave the Schengen Area for at least 90 days before returning.
How the 90/180-Day Rule Works
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Rolling Period: The 180-day period is rolling, not fixed. Each day you spend in the Schengen Area counts towards your 90-day limit. healthplanspain.com 1myspainvisa.com 1
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Cumulative Stays: Time spent in any Schengen country counts towards your 90-day total. For example, 60 days in Spain and 30 days in France equals 90 days. spainguru.es 4lexidy.com 4myspainvisa.com 4
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No Reset by Exiting: Leaving the Schengen Area doesn't reset your 90-day count. You must wait until enough days have passed to fall below the 90-day threshold within the 180-day window. thetimes.co.uk 5myspainvisa.com 5healthplanspain.com 5
Consequences of Overstaying
Overstaying your 90-day allowance can lead to: lexidy.com 4healthplanspain.com 4spainguides.com 4
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Fines: Ranging from €500 to €2,000. healthplanspain.com 1bmed.in 1
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Deportation: Immediate removal from the Schengen Area. spainguru.es 6myspainvisa.com 6healthplanspain.com 6
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Re-entry Bans: Bans from re-entering the Schengen Area for up to 5 years. healthplanspain.com 1myspainvisa.com 1
Spanish border authorities are enforcing these rules more strictly in 2025, with increased checks and penalties for non-compliance. thesun.co.uk 6healthplanspain.com 6thesun.co.uk 6
Options for Extended Stays
If you wish to stay in Spain beyond the 90-day limit, consider applying for one of the following visas:
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Non-Lucrative Visa: For retirees or individuals with sufficient funds who do not intend to work in Spain. myspainvisa.com 4healthplanspain.com 4bmed.in 4
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Digital Nomad Visa: Introduced in 2024, this visa allows remote workers to live in Spain while working for non-Spanish companies. bmed.in
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Student Visa: For individuals enrolled in full-time educational programs in Spain.bmed.in
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Golden Visa: Previously available for property investors, this program is set to end on April 3, 2025.
Each visa has specific requirements and application procedures. It's advisable to consult with immigration experts or legal advisors to determine the best option for your situation. bmed.in
Potential Changes to the 90-Day Rule
Spain has expressed interest in negotiating more flexible arrangements for British citizens, especially property owners and long-term visitors. However, any changes would require approval from the European Union, and as of now, the 90-day rule remains in effect.