Publications

Regulation (EU) 2024/1028, published in April 2024, establishes harmonizes rules for the collection and sharing of data related to short-term accomodation rental services across the European Union. Its primary aim is to enhance transparency in the short-term rental market, facilitate effective policy-making, and ensure fair competition within the internal market.

Why are there new regulations for short-term rentals?

Many online platform listings lacked clear information about who the host is, whether the rental is legal, how often and how long the property is rented. Public authorities in Spain – along with the EU – want to ensure taxes are paid, regulate the growing rental market, and protect residents from rising rental prices.

How are short-term tourist rentals defined in Spain?

There is no standardized definition across the whole Spain, as regulations vary by autonomous community. Individual room rentals are generally excluded. However, the common criteria for short-term rentals are:

• Short duration: usually less than 31 consecutive days per stay.
• Purpose: for vacation or leisure
• Listed on tourist platforms (e.g., Booking, Airbnb etc.)
• Tourism-Related services (check-in, cleaning, customer support)
• Rented out repeatedly to different guests.

How Spain implemented the new EU Regulation?

Spain has implemented the neu EU Regulation through Royal Decree 1312/2024, issued in December 2024, establishing a unified national system for short-term rental data collection and sharing by creating of so called Ventanilla Única Digital de Arrendamientos, which is the central access point.

What are the Key Features of Spains implementation?

• Mandatory registration and identification of the host
• Unique identification number for each rented unity with individual cadastral reference, exact address and rental type.

By when do property owners need to register their tourist rentals?

By July 1, 2025, all tourist accommodations must have an individual rental registration number for each unit, which must be displayed on all online listings.

How do owners register their properties?

There are two options:

• Online via the land registry portal (requires a digital certificate and user account).

• In person at the local land registry office (appointment required).

What documents are needed for registration?

• Application form
• Municipal certificate confirming the property’s suitability for short-term rental (certificado de compatibilidad urbanística)
• Proof of registration with the local Register of Tourist Accommodations

Is there a fee for registration?

• Online: Approximately €30
• In person: Additional costs for applicant’s signature certification (€50)

How long does it take to get the registration number?

It is issued immediately after a successful application. If there are any issues or missing information, applicants have 7 working days to resolve them.

What happens if a rental is offered without a valid registration number?

• Fines up to €30,000
• Platforms must remove unregistered listings
• Temporary or permanent closure of the property is possible for serious/repeat violations

What should owners check before applying?

Ensure the property is correctly registered under the actual owner’s name in the land registry. Inheritance matters or outdated records may cause delays in the application process.

Why is the registration number important?

It acts as a unique identifier for each rental unit, ensuring accurate data tracking and compliance with EU regulations.

The new EU and national regulations for registering short-term rentals present property owners with complex requirements. Expert guidance from Andersen ensures that all necessary documents are submitted completely, accurately, and on time.

In addition, we help you identify and mitigate legal risks early on. This ensures your registration process is transparent, efficient, and legally compliant, fully aligned with current regulatory standards.

For further information please contact:

German Desk

germandesk@es.andersen.com