Spain
3 governments, 3 different opinions
Japan (MOFA)
Level 1
Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions
Exercise normal precautions in Spain. Be vigilant against pickpocketing and bag snatching, especially in Barcelona and Madrid tourist areas. Spain is generally safe but petty crime targeting tourists is widespread.
United States (State Dept)
Level 2
Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution
Exercise increased caution in Spain due to terrorism and civil unrest. Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Spain. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations and public transportation.
United Kingdom (FCDO)
FCDO advises caution due to the high threat of terrorism. Pickpocketing is extremely common in tourist areas, particularly Barcelona (Las Ramblas, Gothic Quarter, metro), Madrid (Sol, Gran Via, metro), and other major cities. Be aware of distraction theft techniques and bag snatching from mopeds.
Japan and the US assess this country one level apart. Review both perspectives below.
Japan rates Spain as Level 1, while the US rates it Level 2 due to terrorism concerns. The UK also specifically warns about the high terrorism threat. However, the most practical daily risk for tourists is pickpocketing — Barcelona is world-renowned as a pickpocketing hotspot. The gap between Japan's Level 1 and the US Level 2 reflects differing weight given to terrorism risk versus everyday street crime.
What Each Government Says
Japan (MOFA)
Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions
“Exercise normal precautions in Spain. Be vigilant against pickpocketing and bag snatching, especially in Barcelona and Madrid tourist areas. Spain is generally safe but petty crime targeting tourists is widespread.”
United States (State Dept)
Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution
“Exercise increased caution in Spain due to terrorism and civil unrest. Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Spain. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations and public transportation.”United Kingdom (FCDO)
See our advice before travelling
“FCDO advises caution due to the high threat of terrorism. Pickpocketing is extremely common in tourist areas, particularly Barcelona (Las Ramblas, Gothic Quarter, metro), Madrid (Sol, Gran Via, metro), and other major cities. Be aware of distraction theft techniques and bag snatching from mopeds.”Destination Customs
Prohibited / Restricted Imports
Meat, dairy, and plant products from outside the EU — restricted or prohibited under EU phytosanitary regulations.
Tobacco — 200 cigarettes or 250g of tobacco duty-free from non-EU countries.
Alcohol — 1 liter of spirits over 22% or 2 liters of wine duty-free from non-EU countries.
Cash exceeding €10,000 — must be declared at customs.
Medications — carry a prescription for any controlled substances. Some Japanese OTC medications may be restricted in the EU.
Export Restrictions
Cultural heritage items and antiques — export permit required from Spain's Ministry of Culture for items of historical significance.
Endangered species products (coral, shells, etc.) — prohibited under CITES without proper documentation.
Large quantities of saffron — may require documentation as it is a controlled agricultural export.
Customs rules can change. Always verify with the local customs authority or embassy before travelling. See Japan return customs guide
SAFE-SENTINEL Tips
💡 Based on all 3 sources:
- 1.Wear bags cross-body and in front of you at ALL times — Barcelona is the pickpocketing capital of Europe
- 2.Never put your phone on a restaurant table or bar counter — 'sweep' theft is extremely common
- 3.Be wary of anyone approaching you with petitions, friendship bracelets, or asking for directions — these are common distraction theft setups
- 4.Use hotel safes for passports and extra cash. Carry only copies and what you need for the day
- 5.In Barcelona metro, hold bags tightly and be especially vigilant at tourist stops (Passeig de Gràcia, Plaça Catalunya)
- 6.Get travel insurance — Spain has good public healthcare but EU reciprocal agreements don't cover Japan. Private treatment is expensive
- 7.Book popular attractions (Sagrada Familia, Alhambra) well in advance — buying tickets from unofficial sources risks scams
Pre-Trip Checklist
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Emergency Contacts
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Sources & Freshness
⚠️ This information may not reflect the latest situation. Always check official sources before travelling.