The Spanish authorities have finally decided to permit entry for travellers from third countries who have been vaccinated against COVID-19 if they test negative for the virus.

According to the new order, travellers from countries outside the European Union can now enter Spain for non-essential purposes, given that they present a certificate of vaccination against COVID-19, proof of recovery from the virus, or negative COVID-19 test results.

Up until now visitors could enter Spain only with a “vaccination or recovery certificate” recognised by the Ministry of Health for this purpose, and after verification by the health authorities, from 21 May, however, visitors from outside the EU can do so without “a certificate proving vaccination against COVID-19 or recovery or negative results”. Specifically, NAAT-type tests (PCR or similar) carried out in the 72 hours prior to departure to Spain or an antigen test carried out in the 24 hours prior to departure to Spain are now valid without need for further paperwork.

In its order published on the official gazette, the Ministry of Interior emphasizes that in order for travellers to be eligible to enter Spain, both those from EU and non-EU countries, they must present one of the following documents:

• Certificate of vaccination against COVID-19 that proves the traveller has taken the second or third/booster dose in the last nine months.
• Certificate of recovery from the virus issued in the last 180 days. The certificate must have been issued at least 11 days after the confirmation of the infection with COVID-19 by a PCR or antigen test performed by professionals.
• Negative PCR test results carried out in the 72 hours prior to departure to Spain, or negative antigen test results carried out in the 24 hours prior to departure to Spain.

Children under 12 years of age, who are still exempt from presenting any type of certificate, can continue to travel, while everyone else must simply present a negative test result, or similar documentation.

Likewise, passengers arriving by sea, as well as those arriving by air, who do have an EU Digital COVID Certificate, or an equivalent recognised by the European Commission, will no longer have to complete the SPTH Sanitary Control Form.