Parents planning for their children’s solo trips abroad should be extra cautious and double-check travel guidelines before sending them off. The Foreign Office has issued a stark warning for those planning Spanish holidays with teenagers this summer. Spanish law classifies anyone under 17 as a minor, strictly requiring adult accompaniment during travel. The Foreign Office website emphasizes that under-17s are prohibited from traveling alone in Spain, potentially causing complications for those born later in the year who planned post-exam getaways with friends.
The Foreign Office website states: ‘Spanish law considers anyone aged 17 and under to be a minor. If an unaccompanied minor comes to the attention of the Spanish authorities (particularly in connection with criminal incidents or when in hospital), they will be considered vulnerable and may be taken to a minor’s centre until a parent or guardian is found.’ This travel alert might come as a surprise to many Britons, accustomed to independent travel after turning 16.
Moreover, Spain, a member of the Schengen zone, adheres to specific passport standards that might be easily overlooked, especially for UK citizens who are not part of the Schengen space. To ensure smooth entry into a Schengen zone country, your passport must have been issued less than 10 years before the arrival date and should remain valid for at least three months after your intended departure date.
The Foreign Office stresses the importance of ensuring valid passports and documents, stating: ‘You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.’
To avoid any unforeseen travel hurdles, thoroughly review the travel advice and entry requirements for Spain and any other destinations on your itinerary. For comprehensive information on Spain, visit the provided link.
This isn’t the first instance of travel requirements being emphasized. Earlier this month, British travelers were reminded of the mandatory New Zealand Traveller Declaration before embarking on flights to the country.
Remember to prioritize thorough travel preparation, ensuring compliance with all regulations and guidelines. A well-informed and prepared traveler is a happy and hassle-free traveler.
