Brits heading to Spain, including children aged 12 to 15, must have been doubled jabbed within 270 days in order to enter the country, the UK Government has confirmed.

The new rules will apply to all tourists over the age of 12 from 1 February, according to an update on the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) website.

People whose second vaccination was administered more than nine months ago must show proof they have had a booster jab.

The news will come as a blow to young families looking to escape to Spain during half term.

“From 1 February onwards, at least 14 days must have passed since being fully vaccinated…. before arrival in Spain,” the FCDO stated. “Your date(s) of vaccination must be specified and your final dose must have been administered within 270 days prior to travel to Spain.

“If you completed your vaccination…..more than 270 days prior to travel to Spain, you must be able to show proof of having receiving a booster jab.

“Children aged 12 and over must follow the general entry requirements.”

According to the Daily Telegraph the ruling means up to 2.5 million British children are effectively barred from Spain because they are not fully vaccinated.

It said only 12% of 12-15-year-olds, approximately 300,000, have so far had two jabs, while a little more than 50% have had one dose. The rest are unjabbed.

Children under 12 do not need to show proof of being fully vaccinated.

The FCDO also confirmed that Spain will not accept the UK proof of COVID-19 recovery record which demonstrates recovery from COVID in the last six months.