UK travellers in Spain could face arrest if they don’t carry their passports - here’s why

Tourists travelling from the UK to Spain could face being arrested by police if they fail to carry their passports while in the country, the Foreign Office has warned.

The Foreign Office has updated its travel advice ahead of the Champions League, warning football fans travelling across the Channel for the Atletico Madrid vs Liverpool FC match on 18 February 2020.

A legal requirement

UK travellers are now legally required to present their ID if requested by a police officer. However, a driver’s licence will not be accepted. Only the original passport, or a clear photocopy, will be suitable.

Police have the right to accompany foreigners back to their accommodation and request to see the original document, if they deem it necessary.

Spanish police routinely conduct passport sweeps of public events to locate criminals, or people living in the country illegally.

If you are travelling to Spain for the Atletico Madrid vs Liverpool FC match, this is what the Foreign Office advises:

You must provide ID (your passport) if requested by a police officer. The police have the right to hold you at a police station until your identity is confirmed

Always take care of your passport, as obtaining a replacement is costly and time-consuming.

Remember to keep a photocopy or scanned copy of your passport somewhere safe

If you lose your passport, you’ll need to apply for an Emergency Travel Document online.

UK travellers are now legally required to present their ID if requested by police in Spain (Photo: Shutterstock)

Right to be held by police

If British tourists refuse to cooperate with police when asked to show a form of identification, the police have a right to detain them.

“The police have the right to hold you at a police station until your identity is confirmed,” the Foreign Office warns.

“Always take care of your passport, as obtaining a replacement is costly and time-consuming. Remember to keep a photocopy, or scanned copy, of your passport somewhere safe.”

Tourists have also been reminded to keep a watchful eye on their possessions at airports, train stations and on public transport, to avoid having their bags snatched by pickpockets.