I have recently heard that clearing customs in Madrid can take hours. Has anybody had any recent experience they can share? Do you need to apply for ETIAS for September 2026 travel? As Frank II pointed out my question is really regarding clearing immigration and passport control
Thanks
Posted by
Kansas
33 posts
Hiii I haven't been in Madrid recently unfortunately, but I do know that the ETIAS form isnt required until the final quarter of 2026. They havent released the official date yet, but I wouldn't think it would start being required until October.
Posted by
Freedonia
19073 posts
Customs is usually just a walk through.
Immigration, however, depends on many factors. No one can predict how long it will take.
Immigration/Passport Control and Customs are two different things. Immigration/Passport Control is for people. Customs if for your staff.
You may think this is being nitpicky. But if you ask a European about customs, they will answer your question about customs and not immigration.
Posted by
Chicago
4378 posts
It took me less than 5 minutes when arriving in Madrid in March. It all depends on many flights arrive at the same time and if all the EES machines are working.
You can read the details of my experience in my trip report:
https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/trip-reports/we-love-spain-a-trip-report