The new year has begun, and it brings not only new opportunities but also a number of significant changes to life on the Costa Blanca. From entry permits to family-friendly reforms, 2025 demands attention and adaptation from residents and travellers alike.
ETIAS is coming
For many British visitors and other non-EU citizens, the year begins with a new challenge: ETIAS, the digital entry authorisation, is now mandatory. Anyone wishing to travel to the EU must register online. However, the system, which is intended to ensure greater security in the long term, entails additional work for frequent travellers.
With the reform of the Aliens Act, Spain wants to reduce bureaucratic hurdles and facilitate access to work permits. Especially on the Costa Blanca, which is characterised by an international community, this could be a welcome change - both for migrants and for employers looking for skilled workers.
New traffic rules
Things will be stricter on the roads in 2025. The transport authority DGT is toughening the penalties for using mobile phones at the wheel and introducing new speed limits in urban areas. At the same time, extended low emission zones will help to improve air quality.
The goal: more safety and sustainability in transport.
With the new family law, Spain is strengthening the rights of parents and children. Extended parental leave, flexible working hours and additional support for single parents should make everyday life easier for families. An important step for the Costa Blanca, where many international families live and work.
2025 will bring a number of changes that will characterise everyday life on the Costa Blanca in many areas. In the following articles, we look at the changes in detail and show how they will affect your life here. A year full of challenges - but also full of opportunities.