Starting this summer, all non-European citizens who visit Ibiza will have to provide proof that they already have accommodation at the time of their arrival, under penalty of a heavy fine of up to ten thousand euros. The rule will currently only apply to English tourists and all non-EU citizens. In addition to proof of accommodation, citizens will need to demonstrate that they have already purchased a return flight. Finally, the stay cannot last more than 90 days. Even if this second rule is broken, the fines can reach up to ten thousand euros.
The authorities of the Balearic Islands have made it known that, as proof of accommodation, hotel, AirBnb or hostel reservations will be accepted. Those who intend to spend time at a friend’s house, however, will have to produce a special document called a carta de invitationacion. To produce a letter of invitation, the owner of the home (who must be a European or non-EU citizen residing in Spain) will have to go to a local police station and fill out a specific form. The procedure will cost between 70 and 80 euros and processing times can take up to 60 days.
Another piece of news coming from Ibiza concerns the world of catering. After making the decision to reduce the maximum working week to 35 hours throughout Spain, Minister Yolanda Diaz wants to bring forward the closing times of bars and restaurants: “In my opinion it is crazy to continue to extend the opening hours – said Diaz – a restaurant open until late at night makes no sense. My goal is to bring the closing times into line with those in force in the rest of Europe”.
