Canary Islands entry and exit regulations
Formalities and visas
No visa is required for travelers from EU countries. Spain – and thus also the Canary Islands – belongs to the Schengen area, so there are no more regular controls at its borders with the EU.
Issuing of visas in Germany
If a stay lasts longer than a certain period of time or serves other purposes than tourist, the visa department of the embassy should be consulted.
Consular department of the Embassy of Spain
Steinplatz 1
10623 Berlin
Tel: 0049 – (0) 30 – 31 50 92 51/-53
Fax: 0049 – (0) 30 – 31 50 99 62
Email: botschaft.spanien@t.online.de
Import and export of foreign currency and goods
Import and export of foreign
currency There is no limit to the import and export of foreign currency in the local currency, but the export of amounts over € 6,010 must be declared. Import and export of
goods
The import and export of weapons, ammunition or explosives is strictly prohibited. In addition, the import and export of plants and animals protected under the Washington Species Protection Act is prohibited. Violation can result in severe penalties.
The following articles can be imported duty-free when entering from non-EU countries:
- 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250 g of tobacco
- 1 liter of spirits (over 20% alcohol content) or 2 liters of alcoholic beverages up to 22% alcohol content
- 2 liters of wine
- 250 ml eau de toilette and 50 g perfume
- 500 g coffee or 200 g coffee extract
- 100 g tea or 40 g tea extract
- Gifts worth € 37
Note
Tobacco products and alcoholic beverages may only be imported by people aged 17 and over.
Entry with peddlers
The EU regulation on the import and export of pets from October 1st, 2004 applies to the entry of pets into Spain. According to this EU regulation, only pets may be imported into Spain that either have an implanted electronic chip or are tattooed (from 2011 an electronic chip is mandatory for all pets) and are therefore clearly identifiable. In addition, an EU pet passport must be issued for every pet brought with you. This card can be issued by any resident veterinarian.
Every pet that is imported into Spain must be vaccinated against rabies. The rule here is that the rabies vaccination must have taken place at least 21 days before entry and must not be older than twelve months. Pets must be at least three months old to be vaccinated against rabies. Pets that are younger than three months and are therefore not vaccinated against rabies can still bring them to Spain. These pets must be chipped or tattooed, an EU pet passport must be issued and it must be ensured that these animals have been kept in the same place since birth and that they have not been able to come into contact with wild animals.
In Spain there are also special regional regulations regarding the obligation to wear a muzzle and a leash. In some regions, dangerous dog breeds are banned and therefore may not be introduced there.
Animal transport with an accompanying person (owner)
In this case, proceed as follows: At the airport, the animal is locked in a transport crate previously obtained by the owner. It must be ensured that the container is large enough that the animal can stand in it and turn around, and it must also be ensured that no liquids can run out (urine). This is done using suitable absorbent material, in the simplest case using a sufficient amount of newspaper. There should also be a water bowl and, depending on the length of the flight, enough food. The transport container is handed over to the staff at the check-in counter. The transport fee depends on the weight of the animal. It is essential to ensure that there is space for the animal for the flight booked, as the number of animals that can be transported
The animal is located in the machine in an air-conditioned area between the passenger deck and the cargo area. As a rule, no member of the crew takes care of the animal during the flight, not even to give water or food. However, experience has shown that the stress of checking in and the take-off phase is so stressful for most animals that they sleep for most of the flight. The administration of sedatives before check-in is not only not recommended, as their effects cannot be foreseen under these conditions, but is even prohibited for reasons of security (smuggling). Many airlines also exclude a number of dogs (attack dogs) from transport.
Animal transport without an accompanying person
In this case, a specialist company must be commissioned with the transport, which then takes care of everything else. However, it should be ensured that the animal is picked up at the arrival airport by someone who is familiar to the dog. And of course all import regulations for pets for the country have to be explored beforehand and strictly adhered to.
Note
It has proven to be very helpful if you have accustomed the animal to such a transport container at home a few weeks before the intended flight.
Canary Islands, Canaries: arrival and transport
How do you get to the Canary Islands?
Air traffic
With a few exceptions, visitors come to the Canary Islands by plane. And actually nothing seems to be easier than getting to Tenerife and Co. from Germany, Austria and Switzerland. The charter connections and cheap offers are almost endless, which bring the holiday-hungry to the popular Spanish archipelago in the hot summer months at the latest. There are flights from almost all noteworthy German airports, so that a detailed representation is prohibited at this point. In any case, it is always worth paying attention to the many last-minute offers and the offers from the low-cost airlines.
The Iberian Peninsula can be reached in an estimated two hours by plane from the Canaries and Central Europe in around four hours. Direct flights exist between the Canary Islands and the largest or most important cities in the world. Each of the seven main islands has its own airport, with the international aeropuertos of Tenerife South and Gran Canaria being the largest in the Canary Islands and also among the busiest in Spain. La Gomera and El Hierro are mostly approached from the other islands despite their own airports. Connections between the islands are also guaranteed by plane. Such flights are mainly flown by the Canarian airline Binter Canarias, which is based in Gran Canaria, and by the Canarian airline Islas Airways.
Shipping
There are numerous ferry connections to the individual Canary Islands. These ferries are mainly operated by the shipping companies Fred Olsen Express, Compañía Trasmediterránea and Naviera Armas. By the way, Tenerife and Gran Canaria each have their own seaport. Both are among the largest seaports in the world in terms of size, trading activities and shipping volume. The ferry, which departs once a week from the southern Spanish port of Cádiz , also goes there. These seaports are also called from the Portuguese city of Portomaio (Algarve). If you want to reach one of the smaller islands, you have to expect a stopover on one of the larger islands.
Various cruise lines also call at the islands. Anyone interested can get more information at www.ferryknowhow.info
Travel in the country
Air traffic
The Canary Islands are connected to one another by means of “national” air traffic, which ensures connections several times a day. Most of the time, the ATR-72 turboprop aircraft are used for this, and they run absolutely safely and quickly. Unfortunately, domestic flights are far from cheap, but they are still the best alternative to bus and ferry. In particular, the local airline Binter Canarias serves six of the seven main islands of the Canary Islands. It is based in Gran Canaria. In addition, the Canarian airline Islas Airways also operates.
Bus transport
Buses are the most important means of transport for the infrastructural development within the individual islands. In contrast to mainland Spain, they are unfortunately quite expensive. In addition, you will have to speak Spanish with the drivers, because English or even German is not expected. The buses are not called autobús (plural autobuses) in the Canary Islands, but guagua (plural guaguas). Every island has its own company that maintains and offers it. Another disadvantage of public bus transport on the islands is that the guaguasoften operate very rarely and only drive to the most important (tourist) destinations. The best and most frequent bus connections will be found in Tenerife.
Rail transport
There is no public rail transport in the Canaries. What there are, however, are plans to set up a railway line between Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Los Cristianos.
Tram
Believe it or not, there is actually a tram in Tenerife. It was established in 2007 after there was one on the island between 1904 and 1959. This makes the Tranvía Tenerife, Tenerife’s tram, the only rail-based means of transport in the Canary Islands. Incidentally, it runs between Santa Cruz de Tenerife and the university town of La Laguna.
Shipping
The shipping connects the individual Canary Islands with each other. Most of the ferries are quite modern and also reasonably cheap. They are provided by such important shipping companies as Fred Olsen, Transmediterránea and Navierra Armas. In addition to the (car) ferries, hydrofoils and jetfoils also operate.
Taxis
Taxis are very expensive, but are not necessary in larger cities unless you are in a great hurry. The taxi drivers, who are easy to find, are honest and hardly likely to cheat.
Rental Cars
Since the expensive taxis and the unreliable buses literally cry out for alternatives, you should rent a car from one of the numerous (international or local) car rental companies for time-saving and independent island explorations. An inspection of the car is very advisable before starting the journey and especially recommended in the tourist centers. Get an exact picture of the seriousness of the car rental company and pay attention to the terms of the contract (which insurance is included, how do I contact the towing service, who is responsible for repairs? Etc.). Another tip: If you want to rent the car for a longer period of time, you should do so in your home country, as the local prices are often higher. A price comparison between the different car rental companies should also be mandatory.
Traffic rules
The rules and regulations for road traffic in the Canary Islands are similar to those in Germany. There is an alcohol limit of 0.5 per mille, towing in a private car is prohibited, you must wear seat belts and you are not allowed to use your mobile phone while driving. Usually high fines are demanded for offenses. Tolls are required for certain motorway routes, bridges and tunnels.
Warning
Since 2008, the sanctions for traffic violations have been increased drastically. For example, anyone who drives faster than 200 km/h on motorways and faster than 110 km/h in urban areas can expect prison sentences of between 3 to 6 months. The same penalties are imposed for alcohol offenses exceeding 1.2 per thousand.
Emergency call
In the event of an accident or other problems with the car or motorcycle, you can reach the ADAC 24 hours a day in Munich at the following number:
0049 – (0) 89 – 22 22 22
International license plate
According to Abbreviationfinder, The international license plate of Spain is:
| E. |
Canaries, travel medicine and risks
Infectious Diseases
In the Canary Islands, the following infectious diseases are to be expected in Germany or Central and Northern Europe:
- Malaria, there is no risk of malaria
- Lyme disease, transmitted by a tick bite
- Intestinal infections caused by contaminated food or water, including amoebas, lamblia, salmonella, shigella, worm infestation and all kinds of viruses and bacteria
- Hepatitis A and B
- Kala azar disease,
- Lambliasis
- Leishmaniasis Disease
Vaccination recommendations
When traveling to, the following vaccinations recommended:
- Diphtheria, a vaccination against diphtheria should always exist in your home country
- Hepatitis A and B
- Tetanus, a vaccination against tetanus should always exist in the home country
Vaccination There are no vaccination regulations when entering or staying in the Canary Islands.
Hazards and current warning notices
Foreign Office (AA) of the Federal Republic of Germany
Citizens’ Service
Telephone: 0049 – (0) 30 – 5000 – 2000
Fax: 0049 – (0) 30 – 5000 – 51000
Current warning
notices from the AA: www.auswaertiges-amt.de
Canary Islands, Canaries: Currency and Shopping
The local currency in the Canary Islands is of course the euro (€) = 100 cents.
The following banknotes are – as in the entire euro area – valid in the country and in circulation:
- 5 €
- 10 €
- 20 €
- 50 €
- 100 €
- € 200
- 500 €
Bank opening hours
The banks in the Canary Islands are open during the week from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Shop
Shop opening times
There are no statutory closing times in the Canaries. However, most shops are closed in the afternoon (for siesta) between about 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m., in smaller places they are often completely closed.: Thus two opening times give 13:00 to 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. to 20:00. As for the large shopping centers, they are open all day.
All about money
Costs in the Canary Islands
The costs of everyday life are only slightly lower in the Canary Islands than in Europe. Those who need money can visit the numerous exchange offices or use the ATMs. The known credit cards are readily accepted.
Tips
As all prices in the restaurant include the legally stipulated service surcharge, tips are your own choice. Nevertheless, you are welcome to give it, whereby 5% of the total bill is appropriate. You just leave the change on the plate.
Trading
Those who absolutely want to trade should limit themselves to the markets, even if nothing is going on there without fixed prices. Sometimes you get lucky with cheap hotels (out of season) and get a few euros off.
Canary Islands, Canaries: Diplomatic and tourist missions
Visit Countryaah for a full list of Canary Islands embassies and consulates in each country around the world.
German representations in the Canaries
German Consulate in Gran Canaria (Las Palmas)
Calle Albareda 3-2 °
35007 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Tel: 0034 – 928 49 18 80
Fax: 0034 – 928 26 27 31
Email: info@las-palmas.diplo.de
Web: www.las-palmas.diplo.de
Honorary Consul of the Federal Republic of Germany on La Palma (Santa Cruz)
Avenida Maritima, n ° 66
38700 Santa Cruz de La Palma
Tel: 0034 – 9 22 42 06 89
Fax: 0034 – 9 22 41 32 78
Email: consulado-aleman@palmasol.e.telefonica.net
Honorary Consul of the Federal Republic of Germany in Tenerife (Santa Cruz)
C/Costa y Grijalba, 18
38004 Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Tel: 0034 – 922 24 88 20
Fax: 0034 – 922 15 15 55
Email: ingofp@hotmail.com
Web: www.honorarkonsul-teneriffa.de
Representation of Spain in Germany
Embassy of the Kingdom of Spain in Berlin
Lichtensteinallee 1
10787 Berlin
Tel: 0049 – (0) 30 – 25 40 070
Fax: 0049 – (0) 30 – 25 79 99 557
Email: emb.berlin.inf@maec.es
Web: www. spanischebotschaft.de
Austrian representations in the Canary Islands
Austrian Honorary Consulate
Calle Hermano Apolinar 12
38300 La Orotava/Tenerife
Tel: 0034 – 922 325 961
Fax: 0034 – 922 322 184
E-Mail: juan@cullenabogados.com
Austrian Honorary Consulate
Hotel Reina Isabel, Calle Alfredo L. Jones, 40
35008 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Tel: 0034 – 928 76 25 00
Fax: 0034 – 928 33 20 02
Representation of Spain in Austria
Embassy of the Kingdom of Spain in Vienna
Argentinierstrasse 34
1040 Vienna
Tel: 0043 – (0) 1 – 505 57 88
Fax: 0043 – (0) 1 – 505 57 88 25
E-Mail: emb.viena@maec.es
Swiss representations in the Canaries
Swiss Consulate in Las Palmas de GC
Urbanización Bahía Feliz
Edificio de Oficinas, Local 1
E-35107 Playa de Tarajalillo
Gran Canaria
Tel: 0034 – 92 815 79 79
Fax: 0034 – 92 815 79 00
E-Mail: laspalmasgc@honorarvertretung.ch
Representation of Spain in Switzerland
Embassy of the Kingdom of Spain in Bern
Kalcheggweg 24
3000 Bern 15
Tel: 0041 – (0) 31 – 350 52 52
Fax: 0041 – (0) 31 – 350 52 55
Email: emb.berna@mae.es
Web: www.mae. es/embajadas/berna
Tourist office
Sociedad Anónima de Promoción del Turismo
Plaza de España, 1
38002 Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Tel.: 0034 922239811
Fax: 0034 922239812
Tenerife Tourist Office C
Villalba Hervás
3 – 3º Oficina 4
38002 Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Tourist Office of Spain in Germany
Kurfürstendamm 63
D – 10707 Berlin
Tel: 0049 – (0) 30 – 882 65 43
Fax: 0049 – (0) 30 – 882 66 61
berlin@tourspain.es
www.tourspain.es
Branches
Düsseldorf
Tel. 0049 – (0) 211 – 680 39 80
Frankfurt/Main
Tel. 0049 – (0) 69 – 72 50 33
Munich
Tel. 0049 – (0) 89 – 53 01 58
Spanish Tourist Office Vienna
Walfischgasse 8/14
A-1010 Vienna
Tel: 01 – 512 95 80
Fax: 01 – 12 95 81
viena@tourspain.es
www.spain.info
Spanish Tourist Office Zurich
Seefeldstrasse 19
CH-8008 Zurich
Tel: 01 – 252 79 30
Fax: 01 – 252 62 04.
zurich@tourspain.es
www.spain.info
There is a branch in Geneva
Tel: 022 – 731 11 33
