Cubans planning to travel between Spain and Italy in the coming days should pay close attention to the documentation they carry, despite both countries being part of the Schengen Area.
Currently, Spain and Italy have implemented temporary checks at their internal air and sea borders. This exceptional measure allows authorities to recheck passports, identity documents, visas, or residence permits on routes that typically do not require systematic border control.
The European Commission maintains an updated list of temporary border controls within the Schengen Area. According to this information, Spain will uphold controls on its air and maritime connections with Italy until October 7, 2026. Meanwhile, Italy has extended its checks on connections from Spain until October 16, 2026.
Understanding the Temporary Measures
These measures do not imply that Spain or Italy have left the Schengen Agreement, nor do travelers need to apply for a new visa just to move between these two nations. The Schengen Border Code permits the temporary reintroduction of internal controls under exceptional circumstances related to public order or internal security.
During this period, travelers may encounter identity and document checks at airports or ports, even if their journey starts and ends within the Schengen Area. Therefore, it's advisable not to rely solely on the fact that it's a European internal flight or ferry. Travelers should carry the necessary migration documentation that verifies their right to stay and travel within the Schengen Area.
The Reasons Behind Italy's Extension
On September 30, Italy's Ministry of the Interior confirmed a new 15-day extension for its air and maritime controls with Spain. The Italian government attributes this decision to the migratory situation in the Spanish city of Ceuta and the risks associated with potential secondary movements of individuals within the Schengen Area. Italian authorities also cite objectives related to internal security and the prevention of possible terrorist threats.
These controls, which began on August 1, have been continually extended. The Italian Ministry of the Interior explains that they are applied selectively and based on risk analysis to minimize the impact on legitimate travel.
Spain's Equivalent Measures
Similarly, Spain maintains equivalent measures for its connections from Italy. The Spanish Ministry of the Interior has explicitly mentioned the temporary reintroduction of controls at Spain's internal air and sea borders for flights and passenger links from Italy. This measure has been extended through successive orders from the Ministry of the Interior and is currently upheld until October 7, according to notifications registered by the European Commission.
Documentation Required for Different Scenarios
Cubans traveling with a valid Cuban passport and a Schengen visa can move between Spain and Italy under the terms of their visa. Temporary control does not require obtaining another Italian or Spanish visa just for crossing between the two countries. However, travelers should carry:
- A valid Cuban passport.
- A valid Schengen visa, if applicable.
- Documentation proving legal stay within the Schengen Area.
- If necessary, documents related to accommodation, return travel, or the purpose of stay.
The European Commission reminds that a person who has legally entered with a Schengen visa can travel through the countries in the area during the visa's validity while respecting the general limit of 90 days within a 180-day period.
Clarification for Cuban-American Travelers
A Cuban traveling on a U.S. passport is currently exempt from needing a visa for short stays in the Schengen Area. This means they can travel between Spain and Italy with a U.S. passport, provided they adhere to the applicable stay conditions, including the 90-day rule within each 180-day period. During temporary controls, they must be able to present their passport and, if requested by authorities, prove they are legally in the Schengen Area.
As of now, they do not require ETIAS because the new European electronic travel authorization system is not yet operational.
Understanding the Difference Between ETIAS and Current Controls
The current checks between Spain and Italy are not part of ETIAS. ETIAS will be a pre-travel authorization for citizens of certain nationalities who can currently enter without a visa, such as Americans. In contrast, the temporary controls between Spain and Italy are physical border checks within the Schengen Area itself.
A person who in the future holds a valid ETIAS could still be subject to this type of internal control if one of the states decides to maintain or temporarily reinstate border verifications.
FAQs on Traveling Between Spain and Italy
Key Questions About Temporary Border Controls
Why are Spain and Italy implementing temporary border checks?
The temporary border checks are due to exceptional circumstances related to public order and internal security within the Schengen Area. Both countries have cited concerns over migration and potential security threats.
What documentation should a Cuban with a Schengen visa carry when traveling between Spain and Italy?
They should carry a valid Cuban passport, a valid Schengen visa, documentation proving legal stay in the Schengen Area, and any necessary documents related to accommodation, return travel, or the purpose of their stay.
Do Cuban-Americans need ETIAS to travel between Spain and Italy?
Currently, Cuban-Americans do not need ETIAS as the system is not yet in operation. They can travel between Spain and Italy with a valid U.S. passport, adhering to the applicable stay conditions within the Schengen Area.