The Spanish authorities have finally decided to permit entry for travellers from third countries who have been vaccinated against COVID-19 if they test negative for the virus.

According to the new order, travellers from countries outside the European Union can now enter Spain for non-essential purposes, given that they present a certificate of vaccination against COVID-19, proof of recovery from the virus, or negative COVID-19 test results.

So far, only travellers vaccinated against COVID-10 have been eligible to enter Spain from third countries. The move means that now travellers from EU and non-EU countries will both be treated the same when it comes to entry requirements.

The decision has been applauded by the Spanish Minister of Industry, Commerce and Tourism, Reyes Maroto, who also pointed out that travellers from third countries are now equated with those from the EU and associated Schengen countries – Iceland, Lichtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland.

“This excellent news, highly anticipated by the tourism sector, will make it easier for tourists from outside Europe to visit us this high season, guaranteeing safe mobility. Spain is emerging as one of the most desired destinations in the world, as shown by the demand indicators that month after month are approaching pre-pandemic levels,” he said.