MADRID – Agreements are needed on the conditions under which British people can travel to Spain this summer. Spain is therefore negotiating with the United Kingdom about a vaccination passport that should be introduced before the summer.
Vaccination passport
It seems that this is just one of many measures to open borders. The Independent writes that the Spanish Secretary of State for Tourism, Fernando Valdés, sees a vaccination passport as one of the measures that must be taken to ensure a safe journey for British people to Spain. According to Valdés, Spain is also seeking agreement on the vaccination passport with the European Union and with the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).
Travel without a vaccination passport must be possible
The Spanish Secretary of State made it clear that tourists from the UK who have not been vaccinated, either because they have not yet had their turn or because they do not want a vaccine, will not be prevented from entering Spain. A vaccination passport will always be part of “a series of measures” to return British holidaymakers.
Vaccine certificate
“A vaccination certificate should help us regain our mobility. It should be supplemented with tests and other means that we have already implemented. This will help to prevent transmission of the virus, such as masks or social distance,” said Valdés.
International tourism recovery
“We believe that summer should be the start of a gradual recovery in international tourism to Spain. Furthermore, it should be the time when can welcome British tourists again. We hope that European member states will find the way to reopen our borders with the UK. “
However, the Spanish Prime Minister has expressed doubts about the summer holidays in the country. He points out that international travel will not be possible until group immunity is achieved. The pressure on Sanchez will no doubt be increased by the leaders of government in the Balearic and Canary Islands. Likewise from other areas that are heavily dependent on foreign visitors. His words, however, do not help British to plan their summer vacation in Spain.
Negative Covid test
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has updated the advice for Spain. Travel restrictions on passenger travel from the UK by air and sea have been extended until 6pm on March 16. These were introduced on December 22. British passengers arriving at Spanish airports from the UK must be able to present a negative Covid test. This must be taken no later than 72 hours prior to arrival.
