In October 2026, Frontex (the EU border agency) and European travel-trade bodies warned of more than 150 unofficial websites offering ETIAS, some using EU symbols. Because no application is processed before launch, any fee paid today buys nothing. When ETIAS opens, apply only on the official EU website or app.
The islands are Schengen
Spain's Schengen accession excludes none of its islands: Tenerife, Lanzarote, Gran Canaria, Mallorca, Ibiza and the rest are Schengen territory, with the same EES checks and the same ETIAS requirement as Madrid.
Ceuta and Melilla
The two cities on the African coast are Schengen territory, but Spain keeps specific controls on travellers going from Ceuta or Melilla to the rest of Spain. Expect an identity check when you board for the mainland.
Gibraltar
Since 15 July 2026 there are no entry and exit booths at the Gibraltar–Spain land border. Gibraltar airport now has Schengen entry checks carried out by Spanish officers.
Andorra
Andorra is outside Schengen. A day trip from Catalonia means leaving and re-entering the Schengen area.
At Spanish border control
Officers may ask for a return or onward ticket, travel insurance, proof of funds, and a hotel booking, a proof of address or a 'carta de invitación' from your hosts.
The basics, in short
- Passport issued under 10 years ago, valid 3 months after you leave.
- 90 days in any 180, all Schengen countries together.
- ETIAS at launch: €20, valid 3 years or until the passport expires.
Rollout, decision times and the 30 countries: full ETIAS guide.
FAQ
Do I need ETIAS for Spain now?
No. ETIAS is not in operation (checked 21 October 2026). Bring a passport issued less than 10 years ago and valid 3 months after you leave.
Do the Canary Islands need ETIAS?
Yes, once it starts. The Canary Islands are part of Spain's Schengen territory.
Will I need ETIAS for Spain from the UK?
Yes, British visitors will need it once it is operational. Until then, you just register in the EES on arrival.
Do I need ETIAS to cross from Gibraltar into Spain?
If you flew into Gibraltar, your Schengen check (and ETIAS once live) happens at Gibraltar airport; the land border itself no longer has booths.
Checked: 21 October 2026, against eur-lex.europa.eu, gov.uk, gov.uk, home-affairs.ec.europa.eu. Rules can change: official sites prevail. No ETIAS start date has been announced; we will not guess one.