Spain requires non-EU tourists to show 122.10 euros per day at the border

Spain’s border cash check for short stays

Spain still requires non-EU visitors, including UK nationals, to show sufficient financial means on request at border control. For 2026, the official minimum is €122.10 ($132) per person per day, with a floor of €1,089.90 ($1,183) no matter how short the trip is.

The long-quoted €113.40 figure applied in 2024 and 2025. Spanish consular pages now show the higher 2026 amount and the limit is tied to changes in Spain’s minimum wage.

Who falls under the rule

The check applies to third-country nationals entering Spain for up to 90 days in any 180-day period, including tourists, business visitors, family guests, short-course students and other non-work travelers. That includes UK passport holders after Brexit.

Border officers can also ask for a return or onward ticket, proof of accommodation and travel insurance. EU, EEA and Swiss citizens aren't covered by the same short-stay entry check.

What travelers should carry

Spanish guidance says acceptable proof includes cash, traveller’s cheques, certified cheques or credit cards backed by a bank statement or up-to-date bank book showing available credit. Simple bank letters and online-only statements aren't accepted as sole proof.

UK travelers should be ready for spot checks, even if many are waved through. For more travel rules that affect nomads and expats, see our visa updates page and read our full Spain guide for the complete picture.