The Spanish government has approved a new digital registry to crack down on illegal short-term rental properties, including vacation homes and rooms. This plan aims to regulate the growing market of tourist rentals and ensure compliance with local housing laws. By the end of 2024, all short-term rental properties in Spain will need to be registered to operate on platforms like Airbnb.

A New Digital System to Combat Fraud

The registry will serve as a ‘one-stop shop’ for landlords to register their properties, using the existing Registro de la Propiedad (Property Registry) system. Properties that don’t go through this process won’t be allowed to advertise or rent on digital platforms. The government’s goal is to eliminate fraud by ensuring that properties meant for short-term rentals don’t avoid taxes or bypass regulations for long-term residential housing.

Each registered property will receive a unique identification number, valid for 12 months, allowing authorities to track rentals and enforce compliance. The registry also aims to prioritize long-term rental availability in high-demand areas, reducing the strain on affordable housing.

Rental Properties Must Meet Strict Criteria

Under this new system, landlords offering seasonal rentals will need to provide valid reasons for the short-term nature of their leases, such as a student renting for a semester or a professional on a temporary work contract. If the rental cannot prove its temporary status, it will be considered illegal, and the property will be removed from rental platforms.

The Youth Rental Assistance Program

In addition to the registry, the government approved €200 million for the Bono Alquiler Joven (Youth Rental Assistance) program, offering young people €250 per month to help with rent. However, critics, including members of the Sumar political party, argue that this measure has been ineffective in solving Spain’s housing crisis. The government has pledged to address these concerns by continuing to improve rental assistance and housing policies.

Let us know what you think in the comments…

Thank you so much for your support! Reach out to us on Facebook and Instagram

For those interested in relocating to Spain we have created a Facebook Group How to Move to Spain to help you throughout the process. We will provide helpful free printables to keep you on track, online events to inform and support your journey, and above all create a community where you can ask questions and get advice. Please feel free to join!

Join Facebook Group

Main image: Pexels/Veres Szilard