Tourists heading to Spain are set to face increased requirements next month as the Spanish government implements new tourist checks, aimed at enhancing security measures. Travel expert Simon Calder has highlighted that the new rules, effective from December 2, will introduce added red tape for travellers, particularly when renting vehicles or checking into holiday accommodations. This move involves providing detailed personal information, such as bank card details, family relationships, and addresses, to hotels for transmission to security authorities.
Previously, hotels in Spain only requested guests’ ID card or passport details. However, the upcoming decree mandates businesses to collect up to 42 pieces of data from tourists, including passport numbers and residential addresses. Simon Calder emphasised on BBC Breakfast the significance of these changes, citing concerns that have surrounded the new law since its development three years ago. While the enforcement has been postponed several times, it is scheduled to take effect next week, impacting British holidaymakers visiting Spain.
Spain’s interior minister, Fernando Grande-Marlaska, explained that the additional information is vital for combating organized crime and terrorism, thereby safeguarding public security. The Minister justified the stringent policy, which includes penalties of fines up to £25,000 for non-compliance, by stating that it adheres to principles of efficiency, proportionality, and judicial security. Data collected will be forwarded to a central database of the Ministry of the Interior to assist law enforcement efforts.
Travellers will now be required to disclose extensive personal details when checking into hotels, renting holiday apartments, camping, or hiring a car, involving information like bank account numbers, email addresses, and contact numbers. Grande-Marlaska stressed the importance of these measures in maintaining public security against potential threats. Despite potential inconvenience for tourists, Calder acknowledged that Spain remains a preferred holiday destination for many, making these enhanced checks a necessary aspect of travel to the country.
Reactions to the new regulations have been mixed, with concerns raised about the potential impact on tourism and the additional administrative burdens placed on travellers. While the measures aim to bolster security and protect citizens, they also entail a heightened level of scrutiny and documentation for individuals visiting Spain. As the tourism industry navigates through evolving security challenges, travellers are advised to prepare for these new requirements and allocate additional time for check-in procedures during their visits to the country.
The implementation of these tourist checks signifies Spain’s commitment to strengthening security protocols and enhancing surveillance mechanisms. While the directives may trigger initial disruptions and adjustments for tourists, they reflect the government’s prioritization of public safety and security. As travellers adapt to these new procedures, ensuring compliance with the regulations will be essential to facilitate a smooth travel experience within Spain. The upcoming enforcement signals a proactive approach by Spanish authorities to address evolving security threats and uphold safety standards within the tourism sector.