Schengen rules

Hello

I have been following this forum as a means of keeping in touch with things in Spain as coronavirus has stopped me from being able to visit my comunidad. I realize most of you are British and trying to find your way in regards to the Schengen rules. As a Canadian I have been dealing with it from the start and I can offer a bit of advice. I don't want to step on any toes but...

Not all border agents are created equal. Do not attempt to overstay if you are coming through France or Germany. We had one set of friends who were given a warning for overstaying in Spain. My husband and I flew Toronto to Lisboa as it was the only direct flight offered from Toronto and we were travelling with a labrador retriever. We overstayed by one to two months for four years and Lisbon customs officials never said a word about it. After my husband passed away I stayed within the three month limit for two years but when I passed through customs in 2020 the official at the airport noted I was staying three months and helpfully informed me that there was an office in the airport where I could pick-up paperwork to extend my stay. He made it sound like it would be as easy as ordering coffee at a drive-through. I declined to investigate as I was in a hurry to get my dog but...the drive from Lisbon to Moraira is 9.5 hours and very easy.

I am travelling on a Canadian passport, own property in Spain and have no interest in becoming a resident. Britain's departure from the EU has ruffled a few feathers but I cannot see officials offering something to one nationality and not another.

Just something to consider...