Could you really be fined €6,900 just for going on holiday without Travel Insurance? That’s what some recent headlines have claimed – and understandably, it’s got a lot of people worried.
Let’s break it down, clear up the confusion, and help you travel with confidence.
What’s going on with Spain and Travel Insurance fines?
You may have come across alarming headlines suggesting that travellers could face fines up to €6,900 for entering Spain without Travel Insurance.
These stories have caused understandable confusion, particularly among British tourists planning trips to Spain. But what’s the real story?
Here we’ll explain why, while Travel Insurance might not be legally required for everyone, it’s still one of the smartest travel decisions you can make.
Separating fact from fiction: is Travel Insurance a legal requirement?
The truth? There is no blanket legal requirement for UK citizens to hold Travel Insurance when visiting Spain.
This confusion largely stems from Schengen visa requirements. If you’re travelling from a non-EU country and require a Schengen visa, then yes, you must show proof of Travel Insurance. That policy must include:
- At least €30,000 in emergency medical cover
- Repatriation cover
But British citizens don’t currently require a visa for short holidays in Spain – the rule would only apply if they were staying more than 90 days in any 180 day period. That’s where the misunderstanding begins.
Do I need Travel Insurance for Spain?
Legally? No, not if you’re travelling visa-free from the UK or Ireland. Practically? Absolutely.
Spain doesn’t ask for proof of insurance at the border, but travelling without it is a serious financial risk. Especially when unexpected medical emergencies arise.
For example, a visit to a Spanish emergency room including a consultation, CT scan, and medication can cost around €729 (£615) if you’re uninsured. If further treatment or hospitalisation is needed, the costs can rise rapidly, particularly for those using private healthcare or without access to the GHIC scheme.
And in more serious situations? Medical repatriation to the UK can cost anywhere from £1,000 to over £200,000, depending on the transport method and distance. For example, a commercial medical escort within Europe may cost around £1,000–£15,000, while private air ambulances for long-haul repatriation (e.g. from the USA) may exceed £200,000.
The Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) does not cover private treatment, repatriation, or cancellations. So while Travel Insurance might not be required, it’s strongly recommended, especially if you’re over 50 or living with a medical condition.
Which countries legally require Travel Insurance?
While Spain may not legally require Travel Insurance for UK tourists, there are countries that do enforce this as part of their entry requirements.
These rules often apply to visa applicants, but in some cases, all visitors must show proof of valid Travel Insurance – often including cover for medical expenses and repatriation.
Here are some of the most common examples:
- Cuba – All visitors must have Travel Insurance that includes medical cover, and you may be asked to show proof upon arrival.
- Turkey – Those entering on a Turkish e-Visa must hold valid Travel Insurance for the duration of their stay.
- Ecuador – Health insurance is mandatory for all visitors to Ecuador, not just visa applicants.
- Russia – Proof of Travel Insurance is required when applying for a visa.
- Schengen Area for visa applicants – The rule requiring at least €30,000 in medical cover applies to non-EU travellers who need a visa to enter the Schengen Area. British citizens travelling visa-free are not affected.
To check if your destination has legal requirements around Travel Insurance, visit the Government’s foreign travel advice. These are regularly updated and provide the most accurate entry requirements based on your nationality and travel plans.
Why Travel Insurance is still essential
Even when it’s not legally required, Travel Insurance remains one of the most important protections you can have as a traveller, especially if you’re over 50 or have a pre-existing medical condition.
The reality is, things don’t always go to plan when you’re abroad. Flights get cancelled, bags go missing, and unfortunately, people do get ill or injured. Without insurance, these situations can turn costly very quickly.
Here’s how comprehensive Travel Insurance helps:
Emergency medical care abroad
A sudden illness or injury while travelling can lead to unexpected and often substantial medical bills. Even something as routine as a fracture can involve costs for scans, treatment, and follow-up care. If you require surgery or an extended hospital stay, those costs can escalate significantly.
In some countries, particularly those outside the EU, private hospitals may also require proof of insurance or upfront payment before admitting patients for treatment. Without cover in place, this can quickly become stressful and expensive.
Our Travel Insurance includes up to unlimited medical expenses and repatriation, giving you the reassurance that you’ll be looked after, wherever your travels take you.
Cancellations and cutting your trip short
Holidays are an investment, and if you’re forced to cancel due to illness, family emergencies or other covered reasons, the financial loss can be significant.
Your Travel Insurance can reimburse:
- Non-refundable flights
- Hotel bookings
- Excursions or events you’ve pre-paid for
Booking insurance at the same time as your trip, and including cancellation cover, activates these benefits straight away.
Lost or delayed luggage
Airlines misplace luggage more often than we’d like to think. If your bags don’t arrive when you do – or are lost entirely – Travel Insurance can help cover the cost of:
- Essential clothing
- Toiletries
- Replacement items or baggage compensation
You can also choose to add gadget cover for phones, cameras, or tablets.
Missed connections and travel delays
Delays don’t just mean waiting at the airport. They can cause missed tours, cruises, or connecting flights. Travel Insurance can cover:
- Additional hotel nights
- New transport costs
- Missed departures due to traffic, strikes or breakdowns
Medical repatriation
If you need to be flown home due to a medical emergency, the cost can be extraordinary. Without insurance, air ambulance services and escorts could exceed £35,000.
With AllClear, you’re covered – so you can focus on recovery, not costs.
Travel Insurance isn’t a legal requirement yet, but it’s a smart one
The recent reports about fines for travelling to Spain without insurance have understandably caused concern. But as it stands, there is no legal requirement for UK tourists to have Travel Insurance when visiting Spain, and there are no confirmed fines in place.
That said, just because it’s not the law doesn’t mean it’s not essential.
Travel Insurance is your financial safety net. It gives you peace of mind, protects you from unexpected medical costs, and ensures you’re not left out of pocket if something goes wrong.
At AllClear, we specialise in helping travellers of all ages – and especially those with pre-existing medical conditions – get the protection they need to travel with confidence.
