Spain implemented strict short-term rental regulations in 2024, prompting strong reactions from Airbnb and property owners nationwide.

Stricter Rules and Industry Backlash

The new rules require property owners to register with a national database, obtain permits, and collect sensitive guest information.

Spain also proposed raising VAT on rentals to match the 10% rate paid by hotels, intensifying concerns among landlords and platforms.

Airbnb criticized these regulations, warning they could threaten 400,000 jobs and €30 billion in income, citing an Oxford Economics report.

From July 1, non-compliance with these rules will lead to fines of up to €600,000 for property owners.

Government Prioritizes Housing Over Tourism

Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez blamed short-term rentals for Spain’s housing crisis, emphasizing the need to prioritize residential housing over tourism.

Non-EU buyers, accused of driving up property prices, could face a tax of up to 100% on home purchases.

Overtourism protests in 2024 further highlighted tensions, with residents opposing the rising number of tourists in overcrowded areas.

Airbnb Warns of Rural Impact

Airbnb highlighted its role in supporting rural tourism, where 70% of its bookings occur in low-density or rural areas.

The platform noted that rural areas accounted for 33.6% of short-term rental stays in 2023, a 17.6 million night increase since 2018.

“Restrictions harm rural development, small businesses, and Spain’s competitiveness as a family destination,” Airbnb stated.

Oxford Economics found that short-term rentals generated €29.6 billion in local spending in 2023, benefiting rural communities and businesses.

Impact on Housing and Tourism

Airbnb disputed claims it worsens housing shortages, citing Spain’s failure to build enough homes. Over four million homes remain vacant nationwide.

The platform argued that restrictions might redirect tourism to overcrowded urban areas, fueling mass tourism and raising accommodation costs.

Case studies like Amsterdam show restrictions reduce short-term rental nights but fail to stop tourists from visiting.

Airbnb expressed willingness to collaborate with governments on targeted regulations that balance housing needs and tourism.

Industry Experts Call for Broader Discussions

Samuel Toribio from rental platform Homelike called for better discussions on quotas and sustainable tourism policies tailored to city capacities.

He noted the lack of housing supply, high construction costs, and insufficient incentives for landlords as key factors driving the crisis.

Toribio and Airbnb warned that restrictive policies might lead to increased reliance on international hotel chains and concentrated urban tourism.

Spain’s approach to short-term rentals will test the balance between alleviating housing shortages and supporting sustainable tourism.