Spain tourists could soon face extra charge upon entry and passport change

dailyrecord.co.uk:

A few big changes affecting travel to and from the UK and certain European countries, such as Spain, could soon come into force with some plans already set in place.The European Union is planning on kickstarting two new schemes for UK and non-EU travellers that affect how people enter different countries and how they're kept track of.While both of these schemes have been heavily delayed, it's expected that we could see them come into force as early as this year - so it's important to be aware of what they entail.The first major change is the EU Entry/Exit System (EES), an automated system for registering travellers from the UK and other non-EU countries every time they cross an EU external border, Birmingham Live reports.It's set to be introduced late this year, and when it comes into force, tourists will have to scan their passports at an automated self-service kiosk before crossing the border.This will replace the current system of stamping passports that was brought in after Brexit.

The new scanners will register the person's name, type of travel document, biometric data like fingerprints and facial image, plus the date and place of entry and exit.

It'll apply when entering 25 EU countries, such as Spain and France, and four non-EU countries that make up the Schengen area.

At the moment, Brits can only stay for a maximum of 90 within any 180 day in Schengen countries. For longer stays, non-EU and non-Schengen nationals have to apply for a visa.The second big travel change coming soon is the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), which will require travellers to get authorisation before entering EU countries, and is set to launch from mid-2025.