First police checks as Spain's PCR requirement at French land border comes into effect

Spanish national police in northern Catalonia have begun to conduct checks on travelers crossing the land border with France as Spain's PCR requirement came into effect on Tuesday.

Unlike on the French side, where there are permanent PCR checkpoints set up, those for southbound drivers have been random thus far.

Truck drivers, cross-border workers, and people who live within 30 km from the border are exempt from the measure that was published in Spain's official gazette on March 27 "based on the evolution of the epidemiological situation and applying reciprocity criteria."

PCR tests have to have been carried out within 72 hours prior to entering the country. 

Those arriving from France—as well as other "high-risk" countries—by boat or plane have had to show proof of a negative PCR to enter Spain since November 23, 2020.

Travel to and from Andorra

Travel between Catalonia and Andorra is currently restricted to permanent residents of Andorra and its neighboring Alt Urgell county.

Catalan and Andorran authorities have, however, agreed to possibly reopen the border to all other residents after Easter if the state of the pandemic does not worsen.