I am writing to you as a British homeowner in Ibiza, deeply affected by the current 90-day rule for British nationals in Spain. This regulation, part of the broader 90/180 day rule enforced in the Schengen area, significantly limits our ability to enjoy our homes and contribute to the local Spanish economy.
Many British citizens, like myself, have invested in properties in Spain with the expectation of spending considerable time here. The restriction to stay for only 90 days within any 180-day period is not only inconvenient but also impacts our connection with the community and our contributions to the local economy.
There is a growing sentiment among British homeowners in Spain for a change in this policy. Your publication, the Majorca Daily Bulletin, has been a vital source of information and a powerful voice in the community. I urge you to use your influence to lobby the Spanish government on behalf of British passport holders.
An extension of the allowed stay beyond 90 days would be a significant relief for many of us and would foster stronger cultural and economic ties between the UK and Spain. I hope you will consider our plight and support us in advocating for a change in this restrictive law.
Sincerely, Simon
15 comments
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Charles Dalrymple-ChumleyOther non-EU sun locations within a 3 hour flight? Turkey, Morocco, Tunisia per chance? I think they will find the Caribbean unaffordable, and Florida equally if not more restrictive on over-staying visas.
I always thought formal letters to the editor (as opposed to online comments) needed to include a full name and address. Obviously 'Simon' wants to flaunt his sense of entitlement anonymously!
Christopher GrubbBecause they moan more than other nationalities, that makes them special!
How could Spain possibly survive without the money that these second home owners spend? Very well and very easily it seems.
My wife and I are Australian, we live permanently on Mallorca and pay taxes like all residents, but we are still subject to the Schengen 90/180 when travelling anywhere outside Spain. We would also dearly love to get relief from the Schengen rules. Quite frankly what makes the Brits think they are so special?? They are now just another 3rd party country. Why do they expect / demand special treatment? I find it quite offensive that they think they should get some special dispensation.
Charles Dalrymple-ChumleySo you want Spain to unilaterally break (longstanding) EU/Schengen rules? Unbelievable! What is it with some British holiday home owners that they think they are so special, so much more important than citizens of other non EU countries? As I mentioned in a previous comment, you left the EU of your own choice yet you still want to interfere with EU rulings! In any event this should have been addressed in the Brexit negotiations, it wasn’t so blame your own politicians for that. Ask them to ask the EU to change the rules. This is not a Spain issue. How many of those now complaining actually voted in favour of Brexit I wonder?
Charles Dalrymple-ChumleyIf British gets concessions so should all other third countries who have properties in Mallorca. The also give but don't take. They eat, drink etc etc just like the British. You can't make just one third country special. Either they are in or out of EU. If out they should all be treated the same. Could some countries claim special treatment in the UK? I doubt it.
A AThis does not affect me. It was a democratic vote, but won't please all.
If the Spanish Government decided to take unilateral action and allow British home owners in Spain longer stay permits then the economic consequences would be greatly to the country's benefit. Mallorca relies on tourism for its income and British home owners are a part of that market. Brits wanting to live most of the year in their Mallorcan homes give but don't take. They spend money eating, drinking, driving, shopping and keeping tradespeople in service. They have no rights or access to benefits or hand-outs or free health care so they take nothing from the Mallorcan infrastructure and system. An acknowledgment by the Government that on island pre-Brexit British home owners are a special case and the granting of special permits would be a win-win for all. If this is not seriously considered and no action is taken Brits may be forced to sell up and transfer their favours to other locations.
Ulla JacksonActions certainly do have implications, but those impacted are not always those who took the actions. Please write to UK government if this impacts you and perhaps one day things will change.