Germany BANS Brits from midnight tomorrow over Covid variant fears – while Spain lifts tourist restrictions

GERMANY has banned Brits from entering the country from midnight tomorrow over Covid variant fears.

But Spain is allowing holidaymakers to return from Monday without proof of vaccination or a negative coronavirus test.

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From midnight on Sunday, May 23, people travelling to Germany from Great Britain and Northern Ireland may only enter the country if they are a German citizen or resident.

Spouses and children under 18 of a German citizen or resident can also enter, as long as the household are travelling together.

Those with an urgent humanitarian reason such as an immediate family bereavement are also able to enter, however anyone entering the country from the UK must quarantine for two weeks on arrival, even if they test negative for the coronavirus.

People who are only transferring from one flight to another will still be allowed in - but they must remain in the airport transit area.

The move comes after Spain lifted travel restrictions on British visitors.

At Friday's international trade fair Fitur Spanish PM Pedro Sanchez: “I am pleased to inform you that the ministerial order will be officially published today exempting citizens from the UK and other 'safe' countries like New Zealand, South Korea and China from temporary restrictions on non-essential trips to Spain.

“I can therefore announce that from next Monday the May 24 we will be delighted to welcome all UK tourists.

“They are welcome to enter our country without restrictions and without health requirements.”

But Number 10 immediately warned people against making plans for a holiday to Spain.

Boris Johnson's spokesman said: "Our advice hasn't changed in regards to amber list countries.

"We have been clear that people shouldn't be travelling to amber list countries for the purposes of holidays."

Germany and Spain are both on the Government's amber list, meaning travellers must quarantine at home for 10 days and take a pre-departure test and two post-arrival tests.

Despite official warnings, thousands of Brits are expected to fly next week to Spain, traditionally the UK’s favourite foreign holiday destination.

Portugal is currently the only major tourist destination on Britain's green list, which means holidaymakers do not need to isolate on their return.

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has hinted it could be expanded amid pressure for France, Spain, Italy and Greece to be added. 

Spain was left off the green list - meaning travellers must isolate at home for ten days back in the UK - and won't be added until June at the earliest.

However, Spain's Tourism Minister Maria Reyes Maroto said she was confident Britain’s favourite foreign holiday destination would get "green light” status soon.