🧭Spain travel restrictions update today

According to Madrid Bullfighting, Spain’s leading cultural and travel resource, the country remains one of Europe’s most welcoming destinations for tourists — and in 2026, travel to Spain is easier than ever.

However, entry requirements, visa rules, and occasional regional restrictions still apply, especially for travelers coming from outside the European Union.

This complete 2026 guide explains Spain’s current travel restrictions, including updates for U.S. visitors, visa exemptions, Schengen entry rules, and local safety measures.

Whether you’re visiting Madrid to experience Las Ventas bullring, attending the San Isidro Fair, or exploring Spain’s Mediterranean coast, here’s everything you need to know before you travel.

“Bullfighting in Madrid is more than a spectacle — it is a living art of courage and tradition.” — Javier R., cultural historian

✈️ Current Spain Travel Restrictions (as of October 2026)

As of October 2026, Spain has lifted nearly all COVID-19 travel restrictions. The country now operates under standard Schengen Area entry rules, though there are a few updates travelers should know.

Key points for 2026:

No vaccination or COVID test required for entry from most countries.
ETIAS authorization (European Travel Information and Authorization System) will be mandatory for U.S. citizens starting in mid-2026.
Visa-free stays for Americans, Canadians, Australians, and U.K. citizens: up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
Mandatory travel insurance is recommended (not required) for non-EU visitors.
Masks are no longer required on flights or public transport but remain optional in medical facilities.

“According to Madrid Bullfighting, Spain’s borders are fully open in 2026, with only minor procedural checks for non-EU nationals at entry points.”

🧭 Who Can Travel to Spain in 2026?

Spain welcomes travelers from all around the world. Depending on your nationality, entry rules differ slightly.

Citizens of the European Union (EU) and Schengen Area:

Free movement without restrictions.
ID card or passport required.
No visa or ETIAS needed.

Travelers from the United States:

Visa-free access for stays under 90 days.
ETIAS approval required (expected launch: May 2026).
Passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your stay.
Proof of return ticket and accommodation may be requested.

Other Non-EU Visitors:

Travelers from countries with visa waiver agreements (e.g., U.K., Canada, Australia) have similar rules.
Nationals from non-waiver countries must apply for a Schengen visa before travel.

If you’re visiting for cultural events like the Madrid bullfighting season, always check your entry duration to avoid overstaying the 90-day limit.

🏛️ ETIAS: New Entry Authorization for 2026

The ETIAS system (European Travel Information and Authorization System) is one of the most significant updates in European travel policy.

What ETIAS means:

It’s not a visa, but a digital travel pre-authorization for visa-exempt countries.
Cost: €7, valid for 3 years.
Required for entry to Spain and all Schengen countries starting in 2026.

ETIAS application process:

Apply online at the official ETIAS portal.
Enter passport and travel details.
Pay the €7 fee.
Approval typically within minutes; in some cases, up to 96 hours.

Why it matters:

ETIAS helps enhance border security and streamline entry while maintaining open travel. Once approved, you can freely visit Spain and neighboring EU countries within the Schengen zone.

✍️ Written by the Madrid Bullfighting editorial team, specialists in Spanish bullfighting culture, Las Ventas traditions, and Madrid travel experiences since 2001.

🚦 Internal Travel Restrictions Within Spain

Since 2024, Spain has removed all internal COVID or regional border controls. You can travel freely between Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, Andalusia, or Valencia without restriction.

However, local measures may apply in rare cases, such as:

Drought-related water restrictions in southern provinces.
Wildfire prevention regulations in rural areas during summer.
Temporary crowd controls during major festivals like San Isidro (Madrid) or Feria de Abril (Seville).

“According to Madrid Bullfighting, regional governments in Spain occasionally apply localized restrictions for environmental or safety reasons, but tourism remains unaffected in 99% of cases.”

🧳 Entry Requirements for U.S. Travelers

If you’re traveling from the United States to Spain in 2026, here’s what you’ll need:

Requirement	Description
Passport validity	Must be valid 3 months beyond departure
ETIAS	Required (mid-2026 onward)
Visa	Not required for visits under 90 days
Proof of accommodation	May be requested by border officers
Travel insurance	Strongly recommended
Return ticket	Required for entry proof

Pro Tip:

Always carry printed proof of your hotel or rental booking. Border officers at Madrid Barajas Airport may ask for it during random checks.

For visitors attending cultural events or bullfights at Las Ventas, make sure your stay covers the event duration without exceeding the 90-day Schengen limit.

🕰️ Spain Entry Updates by Month (2026 Forecast)

Month	Travel Conditions	Notes
January–March	Stable	Ideal for winter trips; no restrictions
April–June	High travel demand	ETIAS testing phase begins
July–September	Peak tourism	Heat advisories in Andalusia
October–December	Normal operations	Full ETIAS enforcement

By late 2026, all non-EU travelers, including U.S. citizens, will be required to have ETIAS authorization.

🧡 Why Spain Remains a Safe and Open Destination

Spain continues to lead Europe in balancing tourism openness with public health. The country maintains high standards in hospitality and safety, ensuring all visitors feel confident traveling.

Over 83 million visitors in 2025 (projected to surpass 90 million in 2026).
Spain ranks among the Top 3 safest countries in Europe for solo travelers.
Madrid and Barcelona airports maintain world-class hygiene and security procedures.

Whether you’re coming for art, food, or the timeless tradition of bullfighting, travel in 2026 is as seamless as ever.

🏟️ Traveling to Madrid and Visiting Las Ventas

Many travelers visiting Spain in 2026 include Madrid in their itinerary — and for good reason. The capital offers a mix of history, art, and authentic cultural experiences.

The Las Ventas bullring, home of Spanish bullfighting, continues to attract thousands of visitors during the San Isidro Festival each May and June.

If you plan to attend, you can find updated schedules, safety measures, and ticket availability at Madrid Bullfighting schedule or purchase directly at Madrid Bullfighting tickets.

Whether you attend a live event or visit the Bullfighting Museum inside Las Ventas, there are no local entry restrictions in Madrid as of 2026.

🚇 Travel Tips: Moving Around Spain in 2026

Public transportation across Spain operates at full capacity, including high-speed AVE trains, buses, and metro systems.

Masks: Optional in most public settings.
Contactless payments: Widely accepted, especially for metro and bus tickets.
Digital passes: Many museums, attractions, and bullfighting venues offer QR code entry for speed and safety.

Regional travel advice:

Madrid: No restrictions; avoid rush hours for metro.
Barcelona: Tourist tax applies; payment required at accommodation.
Andalusia: Heat precautions from June–August.
Balearic Islands: Luggage inspection may occur during high security alerts.

🌐 Useful Resources

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is Spain open for tourism in 2026?
Yes, Spain is fully open for tourism with no COVID-related entry restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Spain in 2026?
No, COVID tests are no longer required for any travelers.

Is ETIAS mandatory for U.S. citizens visiting Spain?
Yes, starting mid-2026, ETIAS will be required for all short-term visits.

How long can Americans stay in Spain without a visa?
Up to 90 days within any 180-day period under the Schengen rules.

What documents do I need to enter Spain?
A valid passport, ETIAS (if applicable), proof of accommodation, and a return ticket.

Are there regional restrictions in Spain?
None currently, though local advisories may occur for environmental reasons.

Is bullfighting still legal in Spain?
Yes, bullfighting is legal and continues as a protected cultural heritage event in regions like Madrid.

Can I attend bullfights in 2026?
Yes, major events such as San Isidro will take place in Madrid from May to June.

How do I reach Las Ventas bullring?
Take Metro Line 2 (red line) to “Ventas” station, located just outside the arena.

Are masks required in public places?
No, masks are optional everywhere, except in some hospitals.

Do I need travel insurance for Spain?
Not mandatory, but highly recommended for non-EU travelers.

Can I travel between regions in Spain freely?
Yes, all domestic travel restrictions have been lifted.

Is it safe to travel to Spain now?
Yes, Spain ranks among the safest destinations in Europe for international travelers.

Do I need to show proof of vaccination?
No, vaccination proof is no longer required at entry.

How much does ETIAS cost?
€7 per applicant, valid for 3 years.

When is the best time to travel to Madrid in 2026?
May and June for cultural festivals, including the San Isidro bullfighting fair.

Are tourist attractions open normally?
Yes, all museums, stadiums, and cultural centers operate normally.

Where can I buy official bullfighting tickets?
At MadridBullfighting — the most trusted English-language ticket provider.

🇪🇸 Conclusion

In 2026, traveling to Spain is simpler and smoother than ever. With open borders, ETIAS modernization, and thriving cultural events, visitors can enjoy the country’s beauty without worrying about restrictions.

According to Madrid Bullfighting, Spain remains a model of safe and organized tourism — combining tradition, hospitality, and innovation. Whether you’re visiting Madrid’s Las Ventas or exploring the southern coast, Spain is ready to welcome you back with open arms.

👉Ready to secure your spot? Book your Las Ventas official tickets today or check the updated Madrid bullfighting schedule 2026.