Gibraltar Unlocked

Do I need a passport to go to Gibraltar?

A definitive, fact-checked answer — updated for 2026.

TL;DR

Yes — you need a valid passport to enter Gibraltar. EU/EEA nationals can alternatively use a national ID card. British citizens need a passport (UK ID cards are not accepted). From 15 July 2026, the UK–EU–Spain agreement removes checks at the Gibraltar–Spain land border, but you must still carry valid ID — controls move to Gibraltar's airport and seaport. Most travellers (British, EU, US, Canadian, Australian, NZ) do not need a visa.

Passport requirements by nationality

A valid passport is required for entry to Gibraltar. The specific requirements depend on your nationality:

  • British citizens: Passport required. UK ID cards are not accepted.
  • EU/EEA nationals: Passport OR national ID card accepted.
  • US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand: Valid passport, visa-free for up to 90 days.
  • Schengen visa holders: A valid Schengen visa or EU residence permit usually allows entry.
  • Other nationalities: Check gov.gi for current requirements. A valid UK visa generally allows entry.

What changes from 15 July 2026?

Under the new UK–EU–Spain border agreement (effective 15 July 2026), checks at the Gibraltar–Spain land border (La Verja) are removed. The physical fence comes down and controls move to Gibraltar's airport and seaport.

This means no more passport queues at the land border for pedestrians and vehicles. However, you must still carry valid identification — and if you arrive by air or sea, checks apply at the airport/seaport (Spanish officials conduct EU checks alongside Gibraltar's own screening).

The EU's new EES biometric system does NOT apply at the land border — good news for the ~15,000 daily commuters.

Do I need a visa?

Most visitors do not need a visa. British, EU/EEA, US, Canadian, Australian and New Zealand citizens can enter visa-free. If you hold a valid UK visa or Schengen visa, you can generally enter Gibraltar too.

British tourists without Spanish residency should note: when crossing from Gibraltar into Spain, the EU 90-in-180-day Schengen rule applies. Time in Gibraltar may count toward your Schengen stay.

Always check gov.gi for the most current requirements before travelling, as rules can change.

More about: Do I need a passport to go to Gibraltar?

Can I enter Gibraltar with a UK driving licence?

No — a UK driving licence is not accepted for entry to Gibraltar. You need a valid passport. UK ID cards are also not accepted (only full passports).

Can EU nationals use an ID card for Gibraltar?

Yes — EU/EEA nationals can enter Gibraltar with a national ID card instead of a passport. This applies at the land border, airport and seaport.

Do British citizens need a visa for Gibraltar?

No — British citizens do not need a visa and can stay indefinitely. A valid passport is required for entry.

Will I need a passport after 15 July 2026?

You should still carry valid ID (passport or EU ID card). Land border checks are removed from 15 July 2026, but airport and seaport checks remain. Always travel with your passport.

Does the Schengen 90-day rule apply to Gibraltar?

Gibraltar is not part of Schengen, but when crossing into Spain, British tourists without Spanish residency follow the EU 90-in-180-day rule. Time in Gibraltar may count toward your Schengen stay.

Can I use a Schengen visa to enter Gibraltar?

Generally yes — a valid Schengen visa or EU residence permit usually allows entry to Gibraltar. However, Gibraltar is not part of Schengen, so check gov.gi before travelling.