Barcelona–El Prat Airport (BCN) — Transit Guide
Transit and entry requirements at Barcelona–El Prat Airport in Barcelona, Spain
Quick Facts
Barcelona–El Prat Airport (BCN) is a Schengen Area airport in Barcelona, Spain. Transiting here may require ETIAS or a transit visa depending on your nationality.
Airport BCN
City Barcelona
Country Spain
Schengen Yes
✈️
Airport Code BCN
🏙️
City Barcelona
🇪🇺
Country Spain
🌍
Schengen Yes
Transit at Barcelona–El Prat Airport
Barcelona–El Prat Airport (BCN) is located in Barcelona, Spain. As a Schengen Area airport, transiting here may require ETIAS or a Schengen transit visa, depending on your nationality.
If you're connecting between two flights that both stay within the Schengen Area, no additional entry is required. If arriving from outside the Schengen Area, you'll pass through border control.
Transit Requirements at Barcelona–El Prat Airport by Nationality
- EU/EEA citizens Transit freely with passport or national ID. No visa, ETIAS, or other authorization needed.
- Visa-exempt nationals (US, UK, Canada, etc.) Can transit without a visa. ETIAS will be required from Q4 2026 (€20) — even for airside transit.
- Visa-required nationals May need a Schengen Airport Transit Visa (ATV) even for airside connections. Check with the embassy of Spain.
Transit FAQs — Barcelona–El Prat Airport (BCN)
Do I need a visa to transit through Barcelona–El Prat Airport?
It depends on your nationality. EU citizens transit freely. Visa-exempt nationals will need ETIAS from Q4 2026. Some nationalities need a Schengen transit visa even for airside transit.
Is Barcelona–El Prat Airport a Schengen airport?
Yes. Barcelona–El Prat Airport is in Spain, a Schengen Area member. Arriving from outside the Schengen Area means passing through border control.
Can I leave the airport during a layover?
If you have valid entry authorization (ETIAS, Schengen visa, or EU passport), you can leave the airport and visit Barcelona during your layover.
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