Spanish tourism industry lobbies EU to extend 90-day visa-free limit for British citizens

Spain’s tourism industry has urged the European Union to extend the current 90 180 visa-free rule for British citizens, arguing the limit is too restrictive for a sector still reliant on UK visitors. In a move reported on 2026-05-21, industry leaders said longer stays would help support hotels, restaurants and second-home owners across Spain’s coastal regions.

The lobbying effort comes as operators warn that the 90 180 framework, which allows Britons to spend 90 days in any 180-day period in the Schengen area, can discourage repeat travel and longer seasonal visits. Tourism groups say the rule is especially problematic for retirees and part-time residents who split their time between the UK and Spain.

The campaign is expected to add pressure on EU policymakers as Spain seeks to protect one of its most important economic sectors. While any change to visa-free travel rules would require broader agreement across the bloc, the industry says reforming the limit could give Spanish tourism a needed boost.