In a bid to boost their economies and address the concerns of British property owners, both Spain and France are advocating for the elimination of the post-Brexit 90-day visit limit, a rule perceived as detrimental. The move comes after the French Senate recently voted in favor of granting British homeowners an automatic right to an extended stay visa.

The current regulation restricts Britons to spending a maximum of 90 out of every 180 days in their holiday homes. To exceed this limit, individuals must apply for a long-stay visa, a process that can last up to six months. Acknowledging the negative impact of this rule on British travelers and the local economies, the Spanish government has now joined the chorus calling for its reconsideration.

Campaign Director and founder of '180 Days in Spain,' Andrew Hesselden, expressed delight over the French Senate's recognition of the challenges faced by British part-year residents post-Brexit. Hesselden remains hopeful for a similar acknowledgment in Spain. Recent developments indicate progress in Spain, with reports of an important meeting between Spanish representative Gomez and the UK's Director of Consular Affairs and Crisis, Jennifer Anderson, discussing issues related to British tourists' stays in Spain, including the 90-day cap.

Spain, reliant on the UK as its largest and most lucrative tourism market, recorded two million British visitors last year, constituting nearly 24% of the total. However, the Schengen Area rules dictate that non-EU citizens, including Britons, can only stay for a maximum of 90 days out of every 180 days without a visa, imposing hefty penalties for overstays.

In a parallel effort, French Senator Martine Berthet has proposed an amendment to immigration law, aiming to grant automatic long-stay visas to British second homeowners. Berthet, motivated by complaints from British property owners in the Savoie region, emphasizes the bureaucratic challenges faced by Britons contributing to France's economy. Despite requiring further debate in France's National Assembly, this amendment has faced opposition from President Emmanuel Macron's government.

As discussions unfold, Spain's Acting Minister of Tourism, Hector Gomez, asserts the country's interest in convincing the EU to consider exceptions, highlighting the need to address the concerns of British property owners and maintain the economic ties between the nations. The push for change reflects the growing recognition of the difficulties posed by the 90-day visit limit, as both Spain and France seek a resolution that benefits all parties involved.