If your travels are bringing you to Spain, you’re likely looking forward to enjoying the picturesque landscapes and vibrant culture of this sunny country.
However, brushing up on border rules before you arrive can be helpful to avoid any unexpected hassles upon arrival.
Curious what type of things you can’t bring into Spain? Look no further.
Like any other country, Spain has certain regulations against items that travelers should not bring into the country.
Knowing what not to pack will make for an easier travel experience.
To ensure a hassle-free travel experience, we’ve put together a list of a few key items that are prohibited or restricted when entering the country.
Things You Can’t Bring into Spain
Arriving at customs with prohibited or restricted items can lead to travel delays or fines—even confiscation.
To avoid hassles like these, here is what not to bring to Spain.
Prohibited Items
Illegal Drugs and Substances
Spain follows strict protocol similar to many other countries when it comes to illegal drugs and substances. The possession of these comes with strict punishment and can lead to imprisonment.
You might be wondering if pharmaceuticals are included under this umbrella. If you’re going to be traveling to Spain with a prescribed medication, be sure to keep the medication in the original packaging with your name listed to avoid any issues at customs.
When traveling to Spain, you can only carry needed medicines with an accompanying prescription or doctor’s note.
Weapons
Weapons, ammunition, or explosives are strictly prohibited items in Spain.
When traveling to Spain, a few of the following types of firearms and weapons that are not allowed include:
- Pistols
- Revolvers
- Shotguns
- Firearm replicas
- Air guns and rifles
- Harpoons
- Axes
While this everyday item may not be considered a weapon, razor blades are also prohibited when traveling to Spain.
If you’ve got a personal razor, be sure to leave it at home and prepare to buy one in Spain.
Everyday tools like drills, professional knives, pliers, screwdrivers, and more are also prohibited when flying to Spain.
Endangered Species and Products
As Spain adheres to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), travelers aren’t allowed to bring specific animals, plants, or products if they are listed as endangered.
This includes items like ivory or coral.
Certain plants are also prohibited when traveling from certain countries to the European Union.
For example, while some plants may be allowed, they must be free of soil and show bare roots.
Cultural Artifacts
Bringing cultural artifacts or items of significant historical value without proper documentation is forbidden.
Spain’s strict laws mean any cultural artifact requires proper documentation and permission.
Spain places great importance on protecting its cultural heritage— any attempt to bring in items without the appropriate permissions can result in confiscation and legal consequences.
Counterfeit Goods
Counterfeit goods, like fake designer clothing, accessories, or pirated media, aren’t allowed in the country.
Customs officials in Spain are vigilant about identifying counterfeit items.
Things You Can’t Bring into Spain — Restricted Items
Food Products
Spain imposes certain restrictions on food and agricultural items in order to stem the spread of diseases and pests.
Many common items like fruits, vegetables, and dairy products are generally not allowed unless specific certifications have been met.
The Ministry of Health houses additional information for which products are allowable when traveling to Spain.
The Spanish consulate or customs authority will also have detailed information on permitted food items.
Tobacco and Alcohol
Traveling to Spain with duty-free tobacco and alcohol comes with specific requirements.
Quantities of each are strictly regulated—anyone who exceeds the regulated amounts faces either fines or confiscation.
Tobacco products must not exceed 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars. Alcohol amounts must not exceed 1 liter of spirits over 22% alcohol by volume or 2 liters of wine.
Cash
If you’ll be traveling to Spain with large amounts of cash, amounts that exceed €10,000 must be declared at customs.
Failure to do so can lead to penalties and confiscation.
Customs Regulations in Spain
Spain travel restrictions are put in place to keep travelers and citizens safe.
By being aware of the things you can’t bring into Spain, you’ll be creating a more enjoyable travel experience for everyone.
Guidelines and restrictions are put in place for a reason, so that travelers can avoid complications at customs and focus on enjoying time in the beautiful country of Spain!
Your Spanish consulate will always have up to date information on travel regulations.
Curious about specifics on travel regulations?
Drop us a line—we’d love to help you out!
Where can I go to find updated travel regulations for Spain?
Your Spanish consulate will have updated travel information. You can also visit the Spanish Ministry’s website for current information.
What do I need to declare at Spanish customs?
Anything that falls under restricted categories should be declared. This includes items like tobacco, regulated goods, and alcohol.
Can I bring my medication with me to Spain?
Yes! You’re allowed to bring medication in your hand luggage—be sure to keep it in its original packaging with your prescription or doctor’s note to avoid any hassles at entry.
