Spain Country Report
Spain is a developed parliamentary democracy located in southwestern Europe, bordered by Portugal to the west, France to the northeast, and Andorra to the east. The southern tip of Spain is just 14.25 km (8.85 mi) from Morocco and the African continent, across the Strait of Gibraltar, which connects the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea.
The Catalan independence crisis and the failed referendum have added to the political uncertainty. This issue still causes occasional protests in Catalan cities. Although related violence has subsided, separatist sentiment in the northern Basque country continues to fuel some fears. Interests inside Spain have been targeted by Islamist terrorists in recent years, increasing the risk to the country. Spain is open to foreign investment and follows the economic standards and regulations required by EU member states. Therefore, the level of corruption is relatively low.
Spain is generally a safe and calm country for tourists and business travelers. Most visits go without a hitch. Petty crime is one of the most common threats, and foreigners are often targeted by thieves in tourist areas and public transport hubs. Spain has developed infrastructure throughout the country.
Spain is a member of the European Union, NATO, and the Schengen area.
Last updated: August 25, 2023
Security
Spain is generally a safe and calm country for tourists and business travelers. Although violent crime is rare, petty crime is the most common threat to foreign tourists in Spain. The Ministry of Interior warned that the general threat of Islamist terrorism continues in the country. Previous attacks have highlighted the existence of radicalized individuals and organized extremist Islamist cells. Police have been deployed in areas believed to be prime targets, such as transport hubs and tourist spots. Catalonia’s independence crisis has mobilized large security forces in potential flashpoint areas, raising the risk of local civil unrest.
Last updated: August 25, 2023
Infrastructure
There are no safety concerns about air travel.
Spain is connected by an extensive system of well-maintained roads and a safe and efficient urban public transport network.
Ports are considered efficient.
Electricity and internet connection are available throughout the country. Water shortages are rare and last only for a short time during summer heat waves.
There is a growing concern about the threat of cyber attacks that could damage the country’s economy.
Last updated: December 29, 2022
Environment
Spain has one of the most diverse climates in Europe, and the country’s classification ranges from semi-arid to temperate and maritime. From January to March, low-lying areas of Spain may experience severe flooding with landslides in mountainous regions. Summers in continental Europe can be very hot, which increases the risk of wildfires in rural areas. From June to August, temperatures can regularly exceed 40 degrees in the southern part of the country, potentially causing health concerns related to heat exposure.
Last updated: March 3, 2022
Health and Medical
There are no special health concerns for traveling to Spain, and only the usual precautions and standard vaccinations are recommended for travel. Food and water are generally considered safe, and an adequate standard of medical care is widely available.
Last updated: September 14, 2022
Political
Spain has a democratic parliamentary monarchy with a multi-party system. The prime minister is the head of government and the king acts as head of government in a largely ceremonial role. Executive power is exercised by the Prime Minister, the Council of Ministers, the Cabinet and the bicameral legislature (Corte General) consisting of the Chamber of Deputies and the Senate. The judiciary is independent from the executive and legislative branches. Presidential and parliamentary elections are held at least once every four years. Local elections are held at least once every four years, but elections are held in different regions in different years.
Government formation usually requires a coalition of different political parties. Despite periodic government collapses or failures to form post-election governments, government institutions are largely competent and effective and provide reliable services in most parts of the country.
Last updated: August 31, 2023
