Spain warns travellers about the cash rule

Even valid euros are not always accepted by tourists arriving in Spain during the summer of 2025. The issue isn’t due to counterfeits or scams, but about genuine €50 notes being rejected after coming into contact with the security ink, which is usually from ATMs’ anti-theft systems. Other people have been denied entry because they used notes that were slightly damaged or marked. At the same time, a longstanding entry requirement is catching people of God, and tools from non-EU countries are being asked to demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to cover their stay, approximately €113 per day, depending on the region.

The rule is still in effect and it can cause delays for those who do not prepare. Visitors are faced with two small, but annoying problems. This summer, the issue is more visible than ever. Here’s how to avoid getting called out. 

The €113/day entry rule — and when it matters

Non-EU visitors are required to show that they have the means to support themselves while in Spain. The standard benchmark is around €113.40 per day or a minimum of €1,134 for a 10-day trip. The minimum amount may vary depending on the area and type of trip.

It’s not a new law, and it does not apply to EU nationals. However, for travellers from the UK, the U.S., and other non-Schengen countries, it has been enforced more visibly in recent years, especially at airports in the Canary Islands, such as Málaga and Alicante.

Spanish border agents may ask for proof at their discretion. This could be in the form of bank statements, prepaid cards or cash.

It is best to print out or take a screenshot of your bank account balance or pre-paid funds. 

It’s okay to have physical cash, but it isn’t required. Large notes can create their own problems. Although the room might seem unnecessary, the policy of Schengen is a part of Spain and it applies to many EU countries.

Why €50 notes are being refused

All around Spain 45% of transactions still involve €50 notes. Travellers would then use it as a common denomination. However, in recent months, reports have increased of €50 bills being rejected, particularly in series such as those from the Canary Islands, Catalonia, and then Delicia. These problems are due to ATM damage.

• According to the Bank of SpainMany ATMs are equipped to detect attempts at physical theft by marking banknotes with an ink-staining system. 
• If the ATM is shaken, pried open or misused — including during technical malfunctions — the dye packs activate and mark notes with Blue or purple stains.
• These stained bills still qualify as legal tender under EU Regulation (EC No 1338/2001)Retailers are permitted to refuse the notes if they think that they are damaged or suspicious.

You can also find out more about the following: Banco de España It is stated that customers who can show that the damage to the note was accidental can exchange it at specified branches.

• The following are some of the ways to get in touch with each other 2023 survey By the European Central Bank Cash Acceptance in Spain fell by 18% from 2019 to 2023, especially for high-value notes. 
• This makes the €50 note, which was once considered the travel-friendly safe bet, a more risky option than before. 
• It has led to a mismatch where local businesses will accept only certain types of currency, while ATMs continue to distribute them. 

How to avoid issues — smarter ways to carry and spend money in Spain

Carrying the right amount of money when you travel to Spain can be a big help. The right amount of money is important when you are travelling to Spain.Many of them are based on how you withdraw money or what you have with you.

Keep your cash withdrawals to ATMs in banks that are open during business hours. It’s less likely that dye packs will be activated. These are less likely than standalone ATMs to activate anti-theft alarms. They are also more vulnerable to false alarms and tampering.

Try not to rely on €50 notes. Even though they’re legal, they’re often refused in shops, taxis, or cafés…

Although €50 notes are technically valid for many shops and restaurants in coastal cities, islands, and transfer hubs, they are often refused, especially if the purchases exceed €20.

You can also keep a screenshot, or a printed copy, of your bank account balance. This will help you prove that you have the funds. While it’s rare for border agents to ask, being prepared for the €113/day rule can prevent delays during spot checks

In Spain, mobile payments are becoming more common. Apple Pay, Google Pay and Bizum as well as the majority of travel money apps are now accepted in taxis and supermarkets.

In a report published by the Bank of Spain in 2024, three out of every four people use cards. Mobile apps or wallets as their primary method of payment — a figure that’s still rising.

In short: carry some cash, don’t rely only on it, and plan for a few unexpected moments — because they tend to show up.

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