The launch of the new electronic exit and entrance system at Spanish airports has made it exceptionally diffcult for British citizens and others to flout the 90 day rule and those that do overstay their welcome could be fined up to 10,000 euros.
The electronic exit and entrance system, launched by the European Union at airports across Europe, has effectively closed any possible loop-hole in the 90 day rule, which only allows citizens from countries outside the EU, to visit member countries for 180 days a year, in two batches of 90 days.
The enhanced electronic entry and exit system means that the Spanish authorities now know exactly how long British citizens and others have stayed in the country.
These are the possible penalties if you spend more than 180 days in Spain a year, according to Manzanares Lawyers.
Fines – Depending on the country and how long you’ve overstayed, you could be made to pay a fine of anything from 500€ to 10,000€. This penalty may be combined with an entry ban.
Deportation – EU countries can give you a limited number of days to leave, or they will officially deport you. This tends to only happen if you are working or claiming benefits without a valid visa.
Entry ban – You can be banned from re-entering if you overstay for a significant length of time, especially if you commit a crime during this time. The ban can last for 3 years or longer.
Prison – Overstaying on an expired visa can lead to a jail sentence of 6 months-1 year or more, which is more likely if you overstay in order to work and earn money without a work permit.
The new European exit and entrance system is now working at Palma airport having been introduced last week.