Spain and Italy in Airport Border Control Dispute – What It Means for Lanzarote Travellers
A diplomatic disagreement between Spain and Italy has led to temporary border checks being introduced on some travellers, raising questions about whether it could affect holidays to destinations such as Lanzarote.
While the dispute has attracted headlines across Europe, the impact on most holidaymakers travelling to the Canary Islands remains limited.
Why are Spain and Italy arguing?
The disagreement began after Italy introduced temporary border checks on travellers arriving from Spain, citing security and migration concerns following the recent migrant surge into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta in North Africa.
Spain strongly rejected Italy’s justification, arguing that the measures unfairly target Spanish travellers and are not supported by the normal rules governing the Schengen Area, where passport-free travel is the standard.
Madrid warned Italy that if the controls were not removed, Spain would respond with equivalent measures.
Spain responds with its own checks
Italy has refused to lift its restrictions, prompting Spain to announce temporary reciprocal checks on passengers arriving from Italy by air and sea.
The measures include identity, passport and nationality checks, with additional document verification for some non-EU travellers. Spanish authorities say the checks are temporary and are intended as a proportionate response to Italy’s actions.
Will this affect tourists visiting Lanzarote?
For the vast majority of visitors travelling directly from the UK, Ireland, Germany, France, the Netherlands and other popular holiday markets, there is currently no direct impact.
Flights to Lanzarote Airport (ACE) continue to operate as normal, and there are no additional entry requirements for travellers arriving directly from these countries as a result of this dispute.
However, passengers flying into Spain from Italy, or those using Italy as part of their journey, could experience longer processing times while the temporary checks remain in place.
Could this lead to delays?
Any additional passport or identity checks have the potential to increase waiting times at affected airports and ports.
At present, there is no indication of widespread disruption at Lanzarote Airport, but travellers connecting through Italian airports should allow extra time and check with their airline before travelling.
Is Schengen ending?
No.
The Schengen Agreement, which allows passport-free travel between many European countries, remains in force.
Under Schengen rules, member states are allowed to introduce temporary internal border controls in exceptional circumstances, such as security concerns. These measures are designed to be temporary rather than permanent.
Advice for Lanzarote residents and visitors
If you’re travelling in the coming weeks:
- Carry a valid passport or national identity card.
- Allow extra time if your journey includes Italy.
- Check with your airline for any travel updates before departure.
- Keep an eye on official government travel advice if your itinerary changes.
For most people flying directly to or from Lanzarote, travel plans should continue as normal.
The Bottom Line
Although the political dispute between Spain and Italy has resulted in temporary border checks, it is not expected to significantly affect the vast majority of tourists visiting Lanzarote.
The disagreement is primarily a diplomatic response between the two governments rather than a broader restriction on travel across Europe. Unless you’re travelling via Italy, your holiday or return journey to Lanzarote is unlikely to be impacted.
