Yes, a visa is required to travel from Spain to United Kingdom.
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Do I need a visa for United Kingdom from Spain?
Discover visa requirements for your trip
Spanish nationals do NOT need a visa for a short tourist visit to the United Kingdom, but since 2025 they must obtain an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) before travelling. The ETA is an online pre-authorisation linked to your passport — it is NOT a visa — and it allows stays of up to 6 months.
A weekend in London, a match in Manchester or a road trip through Scotland: for Spaniards, the UK remains a visa-free destination. But since 2025 the rules have changed for EU citizens, who now have to apply for an ETA online before boarding. Many travellers only find this out too late, at the airport. This guide explains what the ETA is, how to apply, what to prepare and the mistakes to avoid so your trip goes smoothly.
Visa or ETA: what do you need?
An ETA, not a visa. Spanish citizens do not need a visa to visit the UK as a tourist, but since 2025 they must first obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). This is a digital permission linked electronically to your passport, to be requested online before you leave. The ETA covers tourism, visiting family or friends, a short business trip or transit, for stays of up to 6 months. It does not grant the right to work or to settle in the UK.
How to apply
You apply online only, before you travel, through the official "UK ETA" app (available on smartphone) or on the GOV.UK website. The process is quick: you scan your passport, take a photo of your face, answer a few questions and pay the fee by card. Once granted, the ETA is linked electronically to your passport number — there is no sticker or paper document to print. Always use the official GOV.UK channel: third-party websites charge unnecessary extra fees.
What you need
To complete your ETA application, have ready a valid passport (the ETA is tied to that specific passport), a photo of your face taken as instructed by the app, an email address and a means of payment (bank card). A fee applies: check GOV.UK for the exact amount in force at the time you apply. Travel with the same passport you used to apply, because that is the document that "carries" your authorisation.
Validity and timing
Apply for your ETA before you firm up your travel booking, or at the very least well ahead of your departure date, to allow time for processing. Many decisions come through quickly, but an application can take longer in some cases: do not count on doing it at the last minute at the airport. Once granted, the ETA is valid for multiple trips over roughly 2 years, or until your passport expires if that comes first. While the ETA is valid you can return several times without reapplying, with each stay still limited to 6 months.
Common mistakes to avoid
First confusion: thinking an ETA is a visa. It is not — it is simply a pre-authorisation, and the border officer still decides on your admission on arrival. Second mistake: assuming one ETA covers the whole family. Every traveller needs their own ETA, including babies and children, each with their own passport. Third pitfall: mixing up the UK ETA with the EU's ETIAS. They are two separate systems — the ETA is for entering the UK, ETIAS will apply to the Schengen area; holding one does not exempt you from the other.
Best time to travel
The UK has a generally mild and humid climate. The months from May to September typically offer warmer weather and less rain, making it a favorable period for travel. It is advisable to avoid the winter months, from December to February, due to colder temperatures and more challenging weather conditions.
Main arrival airports
The main international airports in the UK include Heathrow in London, Gatwick also in London, and Manchester. These airports handle most international flights and provide convenient entry points for travelers arriving from Spain.
Documents to prepare
For an e-visa, travelers should have a valid passport, a confirmation of the e-visa application, and supporting travel documents such as return tickets and accommodation proof. Travel insurance covering the entire stay is also recommended.
Official sources
- GOV.UK — Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)
- GOV.UK — Apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)
- GOV.UK — Standard Visitor (visiting the UK)
Information verified on July 22, 2026.
Essential United Kingdom information
The United Kingdom is a sovereign country in North-Western Europe, comprising England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. It is renowned for its imperial history, constitutional monarchy, and global influence in finance and culture. The economy faces subdued growth in 2026 per the Bank of England.
Weather in London
Practical travel information
- Anglais
Essential preparations
- Police : 999
- Ambulance : 999
- Fire brigade : 999
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Frequently asked questions
Do you need a visa to travel to United Kingdom from Spain?▾
Yes, an e-visa (electronic visa) is required. It is applied for online before departure and allows a stay of 6 months.
How long can you stay in United Kingdom?▾
The tourist visa allows a stay of 6 months.
What other visa types exist for United Kingdom?▾
Depending on the purpose of stay, United Kingdom offers among others: Skilled Worker visa, Global Talent visa, Scale-up Worker visa, Graduate visa, Health and Care Worker visa, Seasonal Worker visa.
Data verified on 23/07/2026
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