Spain has strict laws when it comes to taxis and private hire companies – and it’s not only unregistered drivers that face getting in trouble with Spanish authorities
If you’re planning on booking an airport transfer or hopping in a taxi, make sure you do your homework first.(Quique Garcia/EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock)
Holidaymakers jetting off on Spain holidays are being warned that they could face a hefty fine of up to €600 if they break one key rule (approximately £513).
If you’re planning on booking an airport transfer or hopping in a taxi, make sure you do your homework first. In Spain, taxis must be registered and the laws around taxis and private hire companies are very strict. Not only can unregistered drivers get into trouble, but passengers using these services can also be fined, BirminghamMail reports.
There are lots of illegal transport companies, especially in popular holiday spots, who pretend to be legit businesses. They might even offer cheaper prices to trick tourists. So, be careful when booking a transfer or getting in a taxi while on holiday, as you could be fined up to €600 if caught using an unlicensed service.
The UK Foreign Office has some advice for travellers on its website: “Only use official registered or licensed taxis, or reputable transport companies you recognise. Licensing regulations differ across Spain and in certain cities pre-booking is required. Passengers caught using unlicensed taxi services are liable for fines of up to €600. Make sure you book your taxi or airport transfer through a licensed firm.”
Holidaymakers in Spain may need to show proof of where they’re staying(Getty Images/iStockphoto)
To make sure you’re getting into a legit taxi or transfer car, look out for signs that it’s the real deal. If they want to meet you somewhere that isn’t the normal pick-up spot outside arrivals, they might not be above board. Plus, their cars need to have insurance that covers you just in case.
If you’re not sure about a company, you can ask them to show you their legal papers and registration so you know they’re proper before you book.
At big airports in Spain like Malaga, there are lots of checks to stop dodgy taxi firms from operating. The car parks are often checked by police and inspectors who are looking for illegal drivers. So, if you stick with a well-known company or book through the airline or airport, you should be good to go.
The taxi rule is not the only one that could see you out of pocket in Spain. Since the UK left the European Union, those who aren’t lucky enough to hold an EU passport now have to carry proof they have accommodation for the whole of their stay when on holiday as a tourist for 90 days or fewer in Spain.
This is easier enough to do if you have a bed in a hotel or hostel as most will be happy to provide you with such proof with little hassle. However, it can be a bit trickier to arrange – but no less important – if you’re staying at a friend’s house.
You might need a ‘letter of invitation’ or ‘carta de invitacion’. This isn’t just a note from your host – it’s an official statement that has to be issued by the local police. It’s up to your host to get this letter and they need to be either a Spanish national, an EU citizen living in Spain or a non-EU citizen with legal residence.
Without this letter, travellers from outside the EU could be fined if they try to enter Spain. If you can’t show where you’re staying when you arrive, you might have to pay a fine and so may your guests. According to the Express, those fines can hit £8,000.
