tourist license barcelona

What Is a Tourist License in Barcelona?

By Alice Nichols

A tourist license in Barcelona is an official document that allows property owners to legally rent out their homes or apartments to tourists. This license is essential for anyone who wishes to engage in short-term rental activities within the city.

Why is a Tourist License Necessary?

Barcelona is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, attracting millions of visitors each year. With such high demand, many homeowners see an opportunity to capitalize on the tourism industry by renting out their properties.

However, it is important to note that Barcelona has strict regulations in place regarding short-term rentals. Without a valid tourist license, renting out your property for less than 30 days can result in hefty fines and legal consequences.

Legal Compliance

Obtaining a tourist license ensures that you are operating within the legal framework established by the local authorities. It demonstrates your compliance with the regulations set by the city council and provides peace of mind for both property owners and tourists alike.

Quality Control

The process of obtaining a tourist license involves meeting specific criteria set by the city council. These criteria often include safety standards, cleanliness requirements, and sufficient amenities for guests.

By obtaining a license, you demonstrate your commitment to maintaining high-quality accommodation for tourists visiting Barcelona.

How to Obtain a Tourist License

Applying for a tourist license in Barcelona involves several steps:

• Gather Required Documentation: This typically includes proof of ownership, property insurance, and proof of compliance with safety regulations.
• Submit Application: Once you have gathered all necessary documents, you can submit your application online or at the relevant administrative office.
• Inspection: The city council may conduct an inspection of your property to ensure it meets the required standards.
• Payment: There is usually an associated fee for obtaining a tourist license. The exact amount depends on various factors, such as the size of the property and the duration of the license.
• License Issuance: If your application is approved and all requirements are met, you will receive your tourist license.

It is important to note that the process and requirements may vary slightly depending on the specific district within Barcelona. It is advisable to consult with a legal professional or contact the relevant administrative office for accurate and up-to-date information.

The Benefits of Having a Tourist License

Having a tourist license offers several advantages for property owners:

• Legality: Renting out your property without a license can lead to legal issues and substantial fines.
• Peace of Mind: With a valid license, you can operate your rental business confidently, knowing that you are following all legal obligations.
• Increased Rental Income: Barcelona’s popularity as a tourist destination means that having a legal rental property can generate significant income for property owners.
• Positive Reputation: Holding a tourist license demonstrates your commitment to providing quality accommodation, enhancing your reputation among potential guests.

In Conclusion

A tourist license in Barcelona is essential for anyone looking to legally rent out their property to tourists. It ensures compliance with local regulations, maintains quality standards, and provides peace of mind for both property owners and guests.

By obtaining a license, you can enjoy the benefits of operating within the legal framework while capitalizing on Barcelona’s thriving tourism industry.

Barcelona Tourist Licences: Everything you Need to Know

• Casamona News
• Interior Design
• Moving to Barcelona
• Real Estate News
• What to do in Barcelona

25 April, 2017

What are tourist licenses.

Barcelona mayor Ada Colau banned new applications for tourist licences just over a year ago to end the problems caused by the industry. Since then, interest in applying for such a licence has continued to increase. It has also meant that the only way to join this business is to buy one of the 9600 apartments that already have a tourist licence. You can find some of them are for sale at Casamona ).

As expectation is that the ban will soon be cautiously lifted, opening the gates for floods of new applications. Thus, it will be important to be familiar with the process before applying to be ready. There is no real way of sugar-coating this application process – it is a long, gruelling process that will drag you through countless offices and application forms – but you can at least know that you will be able to reap the financial rewards of your labour.

Why would you need one?

Tourist licences are necessary in Barcelona for anybody wishing to rent out an apartment classed as “Vivienda de Uso Turístico”. For Barcelona apartments, this includes anything with a rental duration of fewer than 31 days. It also includes anything that counts as a business due to services included: linens, towels, a cleaning service, etc.

– With tourist rentals, the real benefit to the owner is money. Despite the fees mentioned above, the ability to set your price by night allows you to maximise your profits.

– You may be put off by the lengthy procedure required to get the licence. But the process is time-consuming even after gaining your licence because you have to find new tenants regularly if you want to make the most of your licence.

– Tourist rentals are no longer as lucrative as they once were. In fact, the competition increased, which has driven down prices.

– If you regularly have large groups of rowdy tourists, your neighbours are likely to complain. This can led to difficulties for you and even losing your licence.

Requirements

There are various requirements for an apartment in Barcelona to have a tourist licence.

– First, a “Cedula d’Habitatge” is required: this is a form verifying that the apartment is of a liveable standard. In fact it’s illegal to rent any apartment without it. Additionally, to fulfil the requirements of the Tourist Licence, it must also be furnished.

– It must be used only for tourism purposes.

– There must be contact numbers with which the tenants can contact the owner. The local emergency services contact’s must be known by the tenants (police, hospital, and the town hall).

– There should also be an Official Complaint Form available to the renters.

– The property should be fully maintained.

– You must have a permit from the regional government, in the town hall.

NOTE: The Gothic Quarter/Ciutat Vella area is no longer issuing tourist licences. So if you wish to do tourist rentals there you will have to buy an apartment that is already registered.

The application process

Once you have jumped through this wide-ranging selection of hoops, and surely got to know many new parts of the city and its mysterious, varied bureaucratic systems, you can begin the next level: the application process proper.

This stage starts by going to the Town Hall, armed with all your recently-acquired documents and sufficient money to pay the (generally minimal) procedure fee, and the municipal licence tax. These prices both vary depending on your municipality.

In the town hall you can then make your application and present your documents. Approval of your application is the responsibility of the ‘Direcció General de Turisme’, and they designate your HUT number (which will respond with the province of your apartment). Before you receive both the approval and the HUT number you may not rent out your apartment.

Renting out the apartment

First, I believe congratulations are in order for managing to wriggle your way through such a trying application process. When people speak of the gritty underworlds of southern Europe they often refer to the street life of the big cities, or to shifty Mafia dealings where fedoras and black suits cast dramatic shadows under the Mediterranean sun, but to pass unscathed through this domain of unfettered bureaucracy is similarly worthy of respect.

In recognition of your exertions, you will be given access to an online platform where you must register each and every renter. It is a legal requirement that this information be shared with the police.

The details required are:

– Name

– Contact details

– Passport number

– Duration of stay

There must never be more occupants than the maximum stated in the occupancy certificate.

A few things to consider

– If you are a resident in Spain – meaning that you spend 183+ days per year in the country – you must register as “Autónomo” (=self-employed). You also have to pay monthly Social Security contributions. As this is approximately €280 per month this can get expensive if you don’t manage to find a tenant.

– All holiday rentals are subject to 10% VAT, which can rise to 21% depending on the services offered. This must be shown in all invoices and accounts. Many landlords add the money they would lose to the rental price.

If you need more information about Tourist licences or if you want to find an apartment or a house in Barcelona check our website !

People Are Also Reading

Optimizing Your Stay for the America’s Cup in Barcelona: Casamona’s Unparalleled Accommodations Take the Lead

America's cup is starting soon. see here what your best options are for accommodation!

The Real Estate Market in Barcelona: Navigating Uncertain Waters – 8 Reasons Why We Don’t Expect a Possible Downturn!

Find out why we don't expect a possible downturn in the real estate market in Barcelona.

Barceloneta’s Lucrative Apartment Investment: Elevate Your Portfolio

This article points out multiple reasons why you should consider investing in an apartment in Barceloneta.

Rental Prices Domination: Barcelona’s Competitive Edge in the EU

Does Barcelona outshine other European countries and cities in terms of rental prices and investor appeal?

How to get a tourist license in Barcelona? In what neighborhoods is it possible?

Tabla de contenidos

Do you want to buy a home in Barcelona to use as a tourist rental? According to the statistics published by Barcelona City Council, homes intended for tourist use have remained stable from 2021 to 2022 with 9,397 homes for tourist use and the neighborhood with the highest number of this type of homes is Dreta de l’Eixample. The profitability of this rental of homes varies depending on the location and other factors (condition of the property or management), but, in general, on average, it is between 5% and 7%. If you want to use a home you own for tourist use, you will need to obtain a license. We tell you how to get a tourist license in Barcelona, ​​what regulations apply, what areas exist and what possibilities there are of obtaining a license in each area.

Regulations applicable to tourist homes The legislation applicable to tourist apartments in Barcelona is the Special Urban Plan for Tourist Accommodation (known by its acronym PEUAT), which came into force in 2017 with the objective of accommodation of this type not being concentrated in a single area and being distributed appropriately around the city. To achieve this, the need to obtain a tourist license was established. The Special Plan differentiates several types of tourist accommodation:

– Housing for tourist use (VUT).

– Tourist accommodation establishments (hotels, aparthotels, hostels, guesthouses and tourist apartments).

– Youth hostels. On the other hand, in Barcelona the concept of shared homes was created, that is, regular homes in which rooms are rented for tourist use. In this case, the stay cannot exceed 31 days, the maximum places are four and the person who must request authorization must be the person who usually lives in the home.

PEUAT zones The regulations contained in the PEUAT differentiate four zones in Barcelona, ​​which are the following: – Zone 1: includes the neighborhoods of Hostafrancs, Ciutat Vella, Vila Olímpica, Vila de Gràcia, Sant Antoni, Poble Sec, Eixample and Poblenou. This area is where the largest number of tourist apartments are concentrated, so no type of new license for tourist housing is allowed, nor is the extension of existing licenses allowed. As for shared homes, they can be implemented through the conversion of existing tourist homes.

– Zone 2: includes the neighborhoods of Fort Pienc, Poblenou, Sants, Baix Guinardó, Font de la Guatlla, Sant Antoni and Diagonal Mar. A license will only be granted for tourist homes in this area if an existing one is removed and You may open a new establishment in zone 3. Shared homes are regulated in the same way as in the previous case.

– Zone 3: includes the neighborhoods of Vallcarca, Horta, Les Corts, Sarrià, La Verneda Nou Barris El Guinardó and La Sagrera. In this area, new licenses are granted until the maximum number is reached and the following conditions must be met:

– A new establishment can only be opened when there is a drop in zones 1, 2 and 4 up to a maximum of 370 establishments.

– They can only be located in blocks whose density does not exceed a ratio of 1.48% between the number of VUTs and the number of homes or until an entire building is filled with a maximum of ten VUTs.

Shared homes can also be opened in this area through the conversion of already existing VUT.

– Zone 4: in the area are neighborhoods such as Norte del 22@, Marina del Prat Vermell and La Sagrera. Each subzone has specific regulations and new tourist licenses are not permitted. The deregistration of a tourist home will allow the opening of a new one in zone 3. As for shared homes, as in previous cases, they can be implemented through the conversion of an existing tourist home.

How to get a tourist license in Barcelona: requirements

In the event that you can obtain a tourist license in Barcelona, ​​considering the limitations that we have seen in the previous section for each area, you will have to consider the following requirements: – That the home meets all the minimum technical and quality conditions established by law.

– That the home has a certificate of habitability. No more people may stay in the home than those stated on the ID.

– The interior of the home must be in a perfect state of hygiene and furnished.

– The home must have a Catalan tourist registry inventory number. Inside the house there must be a sign with that number and it will have to be provided to tourists.

– The owner of the home must have a telephone available 24 hours a day to resolve incidents that occur during the stay.

How to get a tourist license in Barcelona: steps to obtain it Once you verify that you meet all the requirements to obtain a tourist license in Barcelona, ​​you must request it from the Citizen Services Office that corresponds to the district in which the home is located. To obtain a tourist license, Barcelona City Council prepares a prior report that costs 57 euros. This report verifies the state of housing and the density of tourist housing in the area. The tourist license in Barcelona costs approximately 300 euros. The sale of the apartment implies the loss of the tourist license unless said license is transferred to the new owner through express communication to Barcelona City Council.

Benefits of buying an apartment with a tourist license in Barcelona Buying an apartment in Barcelona as an investment to use as tourist housing has various benefits that depend on factors such as: the situation of the apartment, the price and purchase and sale expenses, the need or not to carry out works and the management of the vacation rental. .

The benefits that can be obtained are the following: – Greater profitability compared to a long-term rental.

– The risk of non-payment is eliminated because the rental payment is made in advance by the tourist.

– It is easier to keep the home in good condition since the situation is monitored from time to time and repairs can be made.

– Another advantage is the possibility of using the home for your own use on the dates considered appropriate. This does not happen with housing with a rental subject to the Urban Leases Law, since the contract is extended for a minimum of one year.

– You can select guests based on certain filters such as the possibility of hosting pets, for example.

However, to obtain all these advantages you will have to carry out good management or hire experts in vacation rental management in Barcelona. In this way, the entire process of selecting tenants or maintaining the home will be in the hands of professionals who will carry out all the procedures quickly and you will obtain greater profitability.

How long does it take to sell an apartment?

• Alquiler , Buy

Learn about the evolution of the real estate market

Do you want to keep up to date with the latest trends in the real estate sector?

You may be interested in....

Can a house be deeded without a certificate of occupancy?

The rights of long-term tenants in Barcelona

Who has to pay renter’s insurance find out all the details.

Usucaption: what does it mean and what are the deadlines?

Forecast of house price developments by 2024

Consultation, follow us on.

Discover the real value of your property with our free online valuation in 2 minutes. 

Do you want to know how much your Barcelona and Sant Cugat property is worth?

Find out for free in just 3 steps.

¡Me interesa!

Quiero leer el Market Report de Barcelona al completo.

Quiero leer el Market Report de Sant Cugat al completo.

• Get 7 Days Free

Barcelona Moves to End Tourist Rental Licenses in Blow to Airbnb

By Cristina Gallardo

Barcelona plans to wipe out thousands of licenses for tourist rental apartments in the city in November 2028 in a move to curb mass tourism, a blow to holiday-rental companies like Airbnb.

Jaume Collboni, the mayor of Barcelona, said Friday that the city wouldn't renew the existing 10,101 licenses for apartment rentals and would stop granting new ones. By removing a lucrative source of income for landlords, Collboni hopes more long-term rentals will be available for residents.

The announcement, part of a package of measures to address rising rent prices in Barcelona, comes as Europe's economy benefits from a boom of American tourists driven by the strong dollar.

"Tourism growth cannot be infinite for the simple reason that the world we share is not infinite either," Collboni said.

Airbnb wasn't immediately available for comment.

Other towns in the Catalonia region could follow suit, using a Catalan decree from November 2023 that allows mayors to revoke tourist licenses after five years. Before its introduction, licenses were granted on perpetuity.

Data from Inside Airbnb, an online platform that tracks Airbnb's impact on communities, show that there are more than 11,000 listings of entire private homes and apartments in Barcelona.

Apartur, a Barcelona industry body representing owners of short-term rentals, said these tourist rental apartments account for 40% of all the tourist accommodation in Barcelona, but just 0.77% of all homes. The association said the decision would fail to bring down rents since it would boost the number of illegal tourist apartments.

Nearly three-quarters of Spain's recent growth and one in four new jobs are linked to tourism. Barcelona is Spain's most visited city, but its popularity has led to clashes between locals and visitors, forcing the city council to intervene with measures such as increasing the tourist tax and promoting a range of rules to boost harmony between tourists and residents.

The crackdown comes less than a year after New York started enforcing a law that banned people from renting their homes for fewer than 30 days, unless the host stayed with the guests, which Collboni has called a "brave" move. Thousands of New York City Airbnb listings vanished from the market following the ruling.

Write to Cristina Gallardo at [email protected]

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

June 21, 2024 10:55 ET (14:55 GMT)

Market Updates

5 stocks to buy before the fed cuts interest rates in 2024, markets brief: inflation is back in the spotlight, what’s happening in the markets this week, what a strong economy now means for the rest of 2024, 4 wide-moat stocks to buy for the long term while they’re undervalued today, markets brief: four stocks made up 80% of the gains. can it last, is it time to ditch your money market fund for longer-term bonds, 4 reasons why today’s stock market is delivering impressive performance, stock picks, airbus: we believe investors may be overreacting to lowered guidance and charge, 10 stocks the best fund managers have been selling, tsmc fair value raised 45% on stronger ai demand, 3 international stocks the best managers have been buying, after earnings, is adobe stock a buy, a sell, or fairly valued, the best cyclical stocks to buy, it’s a good year for stock-pickers. here’s why, the promise and perils of artificial intelligence, sponsor center.

EXPLAINED – Spain’s Touristic Licence

Home > Blog > EXPLAINED – Spain’s Touristic Licence

25 January 2023 | Tags: holiday home , Moving to Spain , property , Rentals , Rents

We explore Spain’s touristic Licence and the different requirements by some of Spain’s automonos regions – who needs it, what is payable and how you apply.

If you wish to learn in more detail about the legal advice we can offer you, please book a consultation today .

What is a touristic license?

The touristic rental is a license that will allow you to rent out your property as a tourist accommodation.

There is no fixed term for a rental to be considered as touristic, but the important feature is its purpose. When it’s rented for tourist, holiday or leisure purposes, a touristic license will be required. Likewise, if it is advertised through a tourism marketing channel, or offered by companies that manage touristic accommodations, a license will also be needed.

When is the touristic license needed?

If the property is rented out to someone who will use your property as their main residence, even if it is for a short period, this license is not needed.

Each region has its own rules and a central Registry of tourist homes and by obtaining the touristic license, your property will be included in such Registry, which can be publicly accessed by anyone.

Which are the requirements / documents needed?

Regardless of where the property is located, in general each property to be rented should have the following:

• All bedrooms and living room must have direct ventilation to the exterior and have some form of system to darken the windows (blinds/shutters);
• Be sufficiently furnished and equipped for immediate use by the number of places to be rented;
• First-aid kit
• A complaints book

Requirements in different parts of Spain

Some special requirements are compulsory depending on where your property is located. For example in Andalucia , a License of first occupation is mandatory. Depending on the age of your property, you may have not have it. In some cases we can obtain an alternative document that will allow registration with the Tourism board. However this has to be analysed case by case.

In Valencian region, prior to registration with the Tourism registry, it is necessary to obtain an urbanistic certificate from the Town hall confirming the property is suitable to be used for touristic rentals. Town Halls charge a fee of approx. 70-90 euros for issuing the certificate and it can take up to 2 months to be issued. It is important to note that in Comunidad Valenciana you must rent the property fully, not by rooms .

Also, it is compulsory to put a sign outside the property that confirm the property is registered with the Tourism registry, same as in the region of Murcia .

In the Canaries a property can only be rented out for touristic purposes if it has a touristic licence and the complex and rentals are managed by an exploitation company.

In the Balearic Islands you need to purchase the license known as “beds”, for the number of guests you intend to have at the property and you cannot have more than 3 houses in a holiday rental as an individual. Some areas in the Balearic Islands could be currently restricted to a maximum of X days/year of holiday rental therefore it is important to check prior to your purchase if your plan is to use the property for holiday rentals.

Are there any fees?

This depends on the region. In Comunidad Valenciana and Andalucia there is no charge for obtaining this license, whilst in Murcia the first one can be obtained for free, but the second one will be paid according to the numbers of places that are available in the accommodation.

This fee would range from 17 € approximately for 2 places to 86 € for more than 8 places.

How long does the process take?

In Andalucia we can help you submitting your application online. In general we will obtain the identification code that must be included in all online advertisement automatically. However, if the property is rustic then it can take a few months until we receive the final registration code.

In Comunidad Valenciana , as we need to obtain the aforementioned urbanistic certificate from the Town Hall beforehand, the process could take a little longer as we would need to receive it before applying for the license itself. Normally, this certificate is received within 2 months.

When can I rent out my property?

You can start renting the property since the moment your application is submitted to the Tourism authorities.

In Andalucia and Murcia typically we will obtain the registration code at the same moment that your application is submitted.

In the Valencian area it typically can take 8 to 12 weeks for the final registration code to arrive, but as said you can start renting the property from the moment your application is submitted to the Tourism authorities.

What are the duties of the Landlord?

Once you start renting it out, you will need to have an accessible complaint’s form, as mentioned before, and also a visible sign outside the property to identify the property as touristic accommodation, if this is located in Murcia and Comunidad Valenciana. This, however, is not required in Andalucia.

Regardless of the region, every landlord must report the identity of the tenants to the Police or Guardia Civil every time a new rental starts, by providing their identification documents.

Finally, in Comunidad Valenciana you must also have a civil liability insurance to cover any potential damages caused during the rental, which can be arranged with any insurance company. Generally, insurance against claims is strongly advisable.

What if there is a change of ownership or I want to deregister my property?

Any alteration has to be informed to the corresponding Registry, so that the information of the touristic accommodation can be updated, or even removed from it, if you don’t wish to continue with the touristic rentals.

Do I have to pay tax on the income I generate?

You are obliged to present quarterly tax returns on income generated and costs incurred in maintaining and handling the rentals. These costs can be deducted, if you are renting the property and you are a tax resident of the EU. If you are using it as a holiday home for you and for your friends the costs are not deductible.

An example of some deductible costs: the community fee, the IBI (Town Hall rates), the mortgage cost that you may be paying if you have a mortgage loan and management company fees if you have a management company dealing with it and any accountancy fees incurred.

Just bear in mind that these costs are deductible only if you are resident in the European union. Moreover, if you generate rental income in Spain then you have got to pay tax in Spain on that income and then you also may have to declare that income in your home country and pay any additional tax there.

For help obtaining a Touristic Licence, payment of tax or with any matters relating to property rental, do contact us . We are here to help.

Written by: My Lawyer in Spain

< Back to blog posts

You may also be interested in...

Changes to Inheritance and Donation Tax for the Balearic Islands

Valuable tips for Potential Spanish Homeowners

Major Update for Non-Resident Property Owners in Spain: Annual Tax Filing Begins in 2024

Business legal services, spanish property services, personal legal services, ask us for a quote.

We know you will want to know how much your legal advice will cost, so we are committed to confirming costs of our services to you in writing .

Join Our Newsletter

Sign-up today to receive updates:

Your name *

Your email *

Example: Yes, I would like to receive emails from My Lawyer In Spain. (You can unsubscribe anytime)

Testimonials

The best service anyone could hope for. Professional and an absolutely amazing eye for detail. Jayson Lewis – April 2021

Barcelona Short-Term Rental Regulation: A Guide For Airbnb Hosts

⚡️ Reveal your property’s rental profitability

Buy this property and list it on Airbnb.

What are Short-Term Rental (Airbnb, VRBO) Regulations in Barcelona?

Barcelona, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, has implemented strict regulations on short-term rentals in recent years to address housing shortages and the impact of tourism on local communities. If you're considering starting a short-term rental business in Barcelona, it's crucial to understand and comply with these rules to avoid fines and legal issues.

Starting a Short-Term Rental Business in Barcelona

Property owners must obtain a tourist license from the city government to legally launch and operate a short-term rental in Barcelona. This requirement applies to rentals of less than 31 days in duration. Without a license, owners can face fines of up to €600,000.

However, since 2014, Barcelona has stopped issuing new tourist licenses to curb short-term rentals growth. As a result, the only way to obtain a license is to purchase a property that already has one. Due to scarcity, properties with existing tourist licenses often command a significant premium.

Once you have a licensed property, you must adhere to several additional requirements:

• Register your property with the Catalan Tourism Registry
• Provide guests with a rental contract and complaint forms
• Collect tourist taxes and remit them to the city
• Ensure your property meets safety and quality standards
• Limit rentals to a maximum of 120 days per year if the owner does not live on-site

Failure to comply with these regulations can result in fines and the revocation of your tourist license.

Enforcement and Challenges

Barcelona has taken a proactive approach to enforcing its short-term rental regulations. The city employs a team of inspectors who actively search for illegal listings on platforms like Airbnb and VRBO. In recent years, the city has closed over 1,000 unlicensed apartments and issued millions of euros in fines.

Despite these efforts, many property owners continue to operate short-term rentals illegally. Some use creative tactics to avoid detection, such as listing properties on lesser-known platforms or advertising rentals as longer-term stays.

The city's strict regulations have also faced legal challenges from the short-term rental industry. In 2021, Airbnb sued the city over its ban on renting private rooms for less than 31 days. The company argued that the ban violated European Union regulations on the free movement of services.

Impact on the Housing Market

Barcelona's short-term rental regulations are part of a broader effort to address the city's housing crisis. The proliferation of tourist apartments has been blamed for driving up rents and displacing long-term residents.

While the regulations have succeeded in slowing the growth of short-term rentals, some critics argue that they have not gone far enough in addressing the underlying issues of housing affordability and availability. Others worry about the economic impact of restricting tourism, which is a significant driver of the local economy.

Short-Term Rental Licensing Requirement in Barcelona

Barcelona has some of the strictest short-term rental regulations in Europe. Since 2014, the city has stopped issuing new tourist licenses for short-term rentals in an effort to curb the rapid growth of vacation rentals. As a result, the only way to legally operate a short-term rental in Barcelona is to purchase a property that already has a valid tourist license.

To obtain a tourist license, property owners must submit a certificate of occupancy (Cédula d'Habitabilitat) and pass an inspection to ensure the property meets safety and quality standards. The application fee for a tourist license is €227.

Once licensed, short-term rental operators in Barcelona face several additional requirements:

• Properties can only be rented for a maximum of 120 days per year if the owner does not live on-site
• Operators must register with the Catalan Tourism Registry and declare the operation of their tourist household
• Guests must be provided with a rental contract, complaint forms, and information on local emergency contacts
• Tourist taxes must be collected from guests and remitted to the city

Enforcement of these regulations is strict. Barcelona employs a team of inspectors who actively search for illegal listings on platforms like Airbnb. Fines for non-compliance can reach up to €600,000. Between 2016 and 2019, the city ordered the closure of over 4,900 unlicensed tourist apartments.

Despite these efforts, many unlicensed short-term rentals continue to operate illegally in Barcelona. Some hosts use creative tactics to avoid detection, such as listing on lesser-known booking sites or advertising rentals as longer stays. However, the steep fines and active enforcement pose major risks for those operating without a valid tourist license.

The strict licensing requirements and the 2014 moratorium on new licenses have made tourist licenses a scarce and valuable commodity in Barcelona's real estate market. Properties with existing licenses often sell at a significant premium. For investors looking to legally enter Barcelona's short-term rental market, purchasing a licensed property is currently the only path forward.

Required Documents for Barcelona Short-Term Rentals

To legally operate a short-term rental in Barcelona, property owners must obtain and provide several key documents:

• Tourist License (HUT): The most critical document is the tourist license, also known as the HUT (Habitatge d'ús Turístic). Without this license, renting out a property for short-term stays (less than 31 days) is illegal. Due to the current moratorium on new licenses, the only way to obtain one is by purchasing a property that already has a valid HUT.
• Cédula de Habitabilidad: This document, issued by the Catalan government, certifies that the property meets the minimum standards of habitability and safety. It is a prerequisite for obtaining the tourist license and must be renewed every 15 years.
• Catalan Tourism Registry: Once the tourist license is obtained, the property must be registered with the Catalan Tourism Registry (Registre de Turisme de Catalunya). This registration number must be displayed on all rental listings and advertisements.
• Complaint Forms: Short-term rental operators are required to provide official complaint forms to guests, which must be available in the property.
• Local Emergency Contact Information: Owners must provide guests with contact information for local emergency services, such as police, fire department, and medical facilities.
• Rental Contract: A written rental contract must be provided to guests, outlining the terms and conditions of the stay, including the duration, price, and any house rules.
• Insurance: While not strictly required, it is highly recommended that short-term rental owners obtain appropriate insurance coverage to protect their property and liability.

Failure to obtain and provide these documents can result in significant fines and legal consequences. The Barcelona City Council has been actively enforcing these regulations, with inspectors searching for illegal listings and imposing penalties on non-compliant owners.

It is crucial for property owners to understand and comply with these documentation requirements before entering the short-term rental market in Barcelona. Given the complexity of the regulations and the challenges of obtaining a new tourist license, many investors are opting for alternative rental strategies, such as mid-term rentals (32 days to 11 months) or long-term rentals, which have fewer regulatory hurdles and can still provide attractive returns in the dynamic Barcelona real estate market.

Barcelona Short-Term Rental Taxes

In addition to the licensing and registration requirements, short-term rental operators in Barcelona are subject to various taxes. It's crucial for property owners to understand and comply with these tax obligations to avoid penalties and legal issues.

The primary taxes that apply to short-term rentals in Barcelona are:

1 . Tourist Tax (IEET): Also known as the Tax on Stays in Tourist Establishments, this tax is levied on guests staying in short-term rental accommodations. As of 2024, the tax rates in Barcelona are:

• €4.00 per person per night for tourist rental accommodations (EB4)
• €5.25 per person per night for 5-star hotels and luxury establishments (EB1)
• €3.45 per person per night for 4-star hotels and equivalent establishments (EB2)
• €2.70 per person per night for other establishments (EB3)

Short-term rental operators are responsible for collecting this tax from guests and remitting it to the city on a quarterly basis.

2. Income Tax: Income earned from short-term rentals is subject to personal income tax (IRPF) for Spanish tax residents or non-resident income tax (IRNR) for non-residents. The tax rates vary depending on the owner's residency status:

• Spanish tax residents: Progressive tax rates ranging from 19% to 45%
• EU/EEA tax residents: Flat rate of 19%
• Non-EU/EEA tax residents: Flat rate of 24%

Owners must declare their rental income on their annual tax return and pay taxes accordingly.

3. Value Added Tax (VAT): Generally, short-term rentals in Barcelona are exempt from VAT (IVA in Spanish) unless the owner provides additional hotel-style services such as catering, cleaning, or laundry. In such cases, a reduced VAT rate of 10% applies to the rental income.

It's important to note that short-term rental operators can deduct certain expenses related to the rental activity, such as mortgage interest, property taxes, insurance, and maintenance costs, to reduce their taxable income. However, the 60% reduction applicable to long-term rentals does not apply to short-term rentals.

Given the complexity of Barcelona's short-term rental regulations and tax obligations, it's highly recommended that property owners seek advice from a qualified tax professional or accountant familiar with the local laws. Failure to comply with these requirements can result in significant fines and legal consequences, making it essential for owners to stay informed and up-to-date with any changes in the regulatory landscape.

Spain Wide Short-Term Rental Rules

While each autonomous community in Spain has its own specific regulations for short-term rentals, there are some general rules and requirements that apply across the country:

• Tourist License: In most regions, property owners must obtain a tourist license or register their property with the local authorities before offering it for short-term rental. The exact process and requirements vary by region.
• Safety and Quality Standards: Properties must meet certain safety, hygiene, and quality standards to be eligible for a tourist license. This may include requirements for fire safety, ventilation, and accessibility.
• Insurance: Owners are typically required to have liability insurance to cover potential damages or injuries that may occur during a guest's stay.
• Guest Registration: Hosts are obligated to register their guests' information with the local police or authorities within 24 hours of their arrival. This is typically done online and requires guests' passport or ID details.
• Taxation: Income earned from short-term rentals is subject to taxation, and owners must declare this income on their annual tax returns. The tax rates and deductions vary depending on the region and the owner's circumstances.
• Community Rules: If the property is located within a community of owners (e.g., an apartment building), the community's rules and regulations may restrict or prohibit short-term rentals. Owners must ensure they comply with these rules before offering their property for rent.
• Zoning Restrictions: Some cities and regions have zoning laws that limit short-term rentals in certain areas or neighborhoods to preserve housing availability for local residents.
• Occupancy Limits: There may be restrictions on the maximum number of guests allowed per property and limits on the number of days per year a property can be rented out for short-term stays.

Property owners must thoroughly research and understand their region's specific regulations and requirements before engaging in short-term rental activity. Failure to comply with these rules can result in significant fines and legal consequences.

As the short-term rental market continues to evolve in Spain, it's also important for owners to stay informed about any changes or updates to the regulations in their area. Consulting with local authorities, legal professionals, and property management experts can help ensure compliance and minimize risk when operating a short-term rental in Spain.

Does Barcelona Strictly Enforce STR Rules?

Barcelona has some of Europe's strictest short-term rental regulations and actively enforces these rules. The city employs a team of inspectors who search for illegal listings on platforms like Airbnb and VRBO. Between 2016-2019, Barcelona ordered the closure of over 4,900 unlicensed tourist apartments.

Compared to other cities, Barcelona is not very Airbnb friendly. The city has stopped issuing new tourist licenses since 2014 to curb short-term rentals' growth. As a result, the only legal way to operate a short-term rental is to purchase a property that already has a license, which often comes at a significant premium.

Despite the strict rules, some hosts still attempt to operate illegally in Barcelona. Tactics include listing properties on lesser-known platforms, advertising rentals as longer stays, or using fake license numbers. However, the risk of getting caught and fined up to €600,000 is high given Barcelona's proactive enforcement.

Based on discussions in real estate investing forums like BiggerPockets, the general consensus is that operating a short-term rental in Barcelona without a proper tourist license is not advisable. The city's stringent regulations and active enforcement make it a challenging and risky market for STR investors.

In summary, Barcelona strictly enforces its short-term rental rules and is not a particularly Airbnb-friendly city compared to other destinations. While some hosts still attempt to skirt the regulations, the high fines and likelihood of getting shut down make operating illegally a precarious proposition. Investors interested in Barcelona's short-term rental market should be prepared to navigate a complex regulatory environment and pay a premium for properly licensed properties.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Barcelona

Starting a short-term rental business in Barcelona can be a lucrative venture, but it's crucial to follow the proper steps to ensure compliance with local regulations and set yourself up for success. Here's a numbered list of steps to get started:

• Research and understand Barcelona's short-term rental regulations, including the requirement to obtain a tourist license (HUT) and the current moratorium on issuing new licenses in certain areas of the city.
• If you don't already own a property, identify a suitable property to purchase that either already has a tourist license or is located in an area where new licenses are still being issued. Work with a local real estate agent familiar with the short-term rental market.
• If you already own a property, determine if it meets the requirements for a tourist license, such as having a certificate of occupancy (Cédula d'Habitabilitat) and meeting safety and quality standards.
• Apply for a tourist license with the city council, which involves submitting required documents, passing an inspection, and paying the application fee (currently €227).
• Once you have obtained your tourist license, register your property with the Catalan Tourism Registry and obtain your registration number.
• Prepare your property for guests by furnishing and decorating it appropriately, ensuring it is clean and well-maintained, and providing essential amenities.
• Create a listing for your property on popular short-term rental platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo, including your registration number, and follow all platform guidelines.
• Set competitive rates based on market research and seasonality and establish clear house rules and check-in/check-out procedures for guests.
• Arrange for cleaning and maintenance services by hiring your own staff or contracting with a professional property management company .
• Keep accurate records of all bookings and income, and ensure that you are collecting and remitting the appropriate taxes, including the tourist tax and income tax on your rental earnings.
• Stay informed about any changes to Barcelona's short-term rental regulations and adapt your business practices to remain compliant.

By following these steps and being proactive about compliance and guest satisfaction, you can build a successful short-term rental business in Barcelona's competitive market. However, be prepared for challenges related to the city's strict regulations and enforcement, and consider alternative rental strategies like mid-term or long-term rentals if short-term rentals prove too difficult or risky in your specific circumstances.

Who to Contact in Barcelona about Short-Term Rental Regulations and Zoning?

If you have questions or need assistance regarding short-term rental regulations and zoning in Barcelona, there are several key contacts and resources available:

1. Barcelona City Council - Housing Department (Departament d'Habitatge)

Address: Carrer d'Alí Bei, 13-15, 08010 Barcelona Phone: +34 932 918 500 Email: [email protected] Website: https://habitatge.barcelona/

2. Barcelona City Council - Urban Planning Department (Departament d'Urbanisme)

Address: Avinguda Diagonal, 240, 08018 Barcelona Phone: +34 932 914 447 Email: [email protected] Website: https://ajuntament.barcelona.cat/ecologiaurbana/

3. Generalitat de Catalunya - Department of Business and Knowledge (Departament d'Empresa i Coneixement)

Address: Passeig de Gràcia, 105, 08008 Barcelona Phone: +34 934 767 200 Email: [email protected] Website: http://empresa.gencat.cat/

4. Barcelona Tourism Consortium (Consorci Turisme de Barcelona)

Address: Passatge de la Concepció, 7-9, 08008 Barcelona Phone: +34 932 853 832 Email: [email protected] Website: https://www.barcelonaturisme.com/

5. APARTUR - Barcelona Tourist Apartment Association (Associació d'Apartaments Turístics de Barcelona)

Address: Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes, 584, Principal, 08011 Barcelona Phone: +34 931 816 303 Email: [email protected] Website: https://apartur.com/

These organizations can provide you with the most up-to-date information on short-term rental regulations, licensing requirements, zoning restrictions, and any other questions you may have about operating a vacation rental in Barcelona. It's always best to consult directly with relevant authorities to ensure compliance with local laws and regulations.

What Do Airbnb Hosts in Barcelona on Reddit and Bigger Pockets Think about Local Regulations?

Airbnb hosts in Barcelona have expressed mixed opinions about the city's strict short-term rental regulations on online forums like Reddit and Bigger Pockets. While some understand the need for regulation to preserve housing affordability and quality of life for residents, others feel the rules are overly restrictive and make it difficult to operate legally.

Here are a few insights from hosts on these platforms:

Reddit user "BCNhostthrowaway" shared their experience hosting in Barcelona, noting that the city has been very hostile to Airbnb under the current mayor. They explained that tourist licenses required to operate legally have been frozen for years, with no new licenses being issued. As a result, the only way to obtain a license is to purchase a property that already has one, which comes at a significant premium.

On the Bigger Pockets forum, a user named "Francisco Galera" sought advice on investing in Barcelona properties for short-term rentals. While no direct responses were provided, the post highlights the interest among foreign investors in entering Barcelona's Airbnb market, despite the regulatory challenges.

In another Reddit thread, user "thebadrash" mentioned that their building in the Eixample neighborhood had issues with an illegal Airbnb operating below their unit. The apartment was allegedly run by a Russian woman and managed by "shady guys," with the entire space carved up into five beds for tourists at €100 per night. The user noted that there haven't been any new licenses for tourist flats issued in years, so any new Airbnb is likely operating illegally.

Reddit user "Sugusino" pointed out that while short-term rentals under 31 days require a tourist license, owners can still legally rent out their properties for stays longer than 31 days without a license. This loophole allows some hosts to continue operating by offering longer minimum stays.

In a discussion about reporting illegal Airbnbs, Reddit user "Narrow_Raccoon" shared their experience reporting an unlicensed rental in their Eixample building. However, they noted that the city's response was simply to send the host a link to general information about the rules, suggesting that enforcement may not always be swift or effective.

Overall, the sentiment among Airbnb hosts in Barcelona on these forums seems to be one of frustration with the strict regulations and limited legal options for operating short-term rentals. While some acknowledge the need for rules to protect local housing, many feel the current system is overly burdensome, and favors established players who already hold tourist licenses. As the city continues to grapple with the impact of tourism on local communities, the debate over short-term rental regulations is likely to remain contentious among hosts and residents alike.

Disclaimer: While we here at BNBCalc strive to keep all of our city regulation guides updated and accurate with all the latest local laws, we still do not suggest using them as your sole or primary source for local regulations. We also do not recommend you rely on the third-party sources we link to or reference, and we are not responsible for any of the information on these third-party sites. These guides are for entertainment purposes only and only provide basic information and should not be considered as legal advice.

We highly recommend directly contacting the responsible parties for each city and hearing what their officials have to say. Ultimately, it's your responsibility as an investor to ensure you fully comply with the local laws, and it's best to speak with professionals before making an investment decision.

• www.barcelona.cat

Flat detector

You can easily detect if there are unlicensed tourist flats in your building or if you are staying in one. Fill in the boxes. If your address does not appear, the flat you are looking for is illegal. (For flats in the city of Barcelona.)

If your address does not match up with any on the list, we advise you NOT TO RENT IT. Work with the City Council and let us know about it. Report it here

Select any filter and click on Search to see results

Collaborate

If you believe your building has unlicensed tourist-use flats or you believe you may be staying in one of them...

The city of Barcelona offers a wide array of tourist accommodation so that everyone who visits, whether for business or pleasure, can enjoy their stay as though they were just another Barcelona resident, integrated into the daily life of the city and the communities of local residents with whom they are sharing living space. Staying in this type of accommodation brings with it a whole series of rights and obligations that you need to know how to identify when you make your booking. Having a personally fulfilling trip that also respects the city's local residents also depends on the visitors themselves.

Like many tourist destinations, in Barcelona people also offer accommodation that does not have the corresponding tourist license and is therefore illegal. This brings harm to both the person renting the place, because they lose their rights to lodge complaints if there is an incident and it precludes mandatory services from being offered, and also to the city, because it creates speculation, an underground economy, and does not have a positive impact on the communities of local residents surrounding this type of accommodation, instead causing headaches and complaints.

If you visit our city, we need your commitment and collaboration to ensure that this illegal tourist accommodation, which leads to irresponsible, economically unsustainable and disrespectful tourism, does not spring up and take root in Barcelona.

Before renting a tourist flat, check whether it's legal, and don't book it if it's not. You'll be helping us fight fraud and rising property prices, as well as preventing people from being priced out of their own neighbourhood.

If you're a local resident and you're experiencing disturbances stemming from the activity of this type of accommodation and you want to contribute to fighting this phenomenon, send us your complaint here

Don't be conned... do it right for yourself and for Barcelona!

Resolve your queries

What is a tourist flat, what does a tourist flat have to comply with to be legal, what obligations do owners of tourist flats have towards their neighbours, why might i suspect i am staying in an illegal tourist flat, what are the administrative steps to stop a flat from operating as a tourist let.

What will happen to me if I report an illegal tourist let while I’m staying there?

What differences are there between an legal tourist let and an illegal one, you might also be interested in....

Visit the city

Barcelona made to measure, all you need to know: telephone numbers, services, information on transport, etc.

Getting around in Barcelona

The city has an extensive public transport network connecting its districts.

Safety tips and being a good neighbour

Rules of civility in the city for harmony between tourists and local residents.

Top tourist destination Barcelona plans to shut all holiday apartments by 2028

• Barcelona will bar apartment rentals to tourists by 2028.
• The city's leftist mayor said that by November 2028, Barcelona would scrap the licenses of the 10,101 apartments currently approved as short-term rentals.
• The boom in short-term rentals in Barcelona, Spain's most visited city by foreign tourists, means some residents cannot afford an apartment after rents rose 68% in the past 10 years.

BARCELONA, Spain – Barcelona, a top Spanish holiday destination, announced on Friday that it will bar apartment rentals to tourists by 2028. This unexpectedly drastic move is part of a larger effort to rein in soaring housing costs and make the city liveable for residents.

The city's leftist mayor, Jaume Collboni, said that by November 2028, Barcelona would scrap the licenses of the 10,101 apartments currently approved as short-term rentals.

"We are confronting what we believe is Barcelona's largest problem," Collboni told a city government event.

The boom in short-term rentals in Barcelona, Spain's most visited city by foreign tourists, means some residents cannot afford an apartment after rents rose 68% in the past 10 years and the cost of buying a house rose by 38%, Collboni said. Access to housing has become a driver of inequality, particularly for young people, he added.

Airbnb vs. Vrbo: Which vacation rental platform is right for you?

National governments relish the economic benefits of tourism – Spain ranks among the top three most visited countries in the world – but with local residents priced out in some places, gentrification and owner preference for lucrative tourist rentals are increasingly a hot topic across Europe.

Local governments have announced restrictions on short-term rentals in places such as Spain's Canary Islands, Lisbon and Berlin in the past decade.

Spain's Socialist housing minister, Isabel Rodriguez, said she supported Barcelona's decision.

"It's about making all the necessary efforts to guarantee access to affordable housing," she posted on X, formerly Twitter.

Airbnb, which hosts a significant number of Barcelona listings, did not provide a comment to USA TODAY.

"Collboni is making a mistake that will lead to (higher) poverty and unemployment," Barcelona's tourist apartments association APARTUR said in a statement, adding the ban would trigger a rise in illegal tourist apartments.

Hotels stand to benefit from the move. The opening of new hotels in the city's most popular areas was banned by a far-left party governing Barcelona between 2015 and 2023, but Collboni has signaled he could relax the restriction.

Barcelona's hotel association declined to comment on Friday's announcement.

"Those 10,000 apartments will be used by the city's residents or will go on the market for rent or sale," Collboni said of the measure.

Barcelona's local government said in a statement it would maintain its "strong" inspection regime to detect potential illegal tourist apartments once the ban comes into force.

No new tourist apartments have been allowed in the city in recent years. The local government has ordered the shutting of 9,700 illegal tourist apartments since 2016 and close to 3,500 apartments have been recovered to be used as primary housing for local residents, it said.

Contributing: Corina Pons and David Latona, Reuters

The Key Points at the top of this article were created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. No other parts of the article were generated using AI. Learn more .

Top Tourist Destination Barcelona Plans to Shut All Holiday Apartments by 2028

FILE PHOTO: Tourists and residents drink on a street in Gracia neighbourhood during a heatwave of the summer, in Barcelona, Spain August 19, 2023. REUTERS/Bruna Casas/File Photo

By Joan Faus

BARCELONA (Reuters) - Barcelona, a top Spanish holiday destination, announced on Friday that it will bar apartment rentals to tourists by 2028, an unexpectedly drastic move as it seeks to rein in soaring housing costs and make the city liveable for residents.

The city's leftist mayor, Jaume Collboni, said that by November 2028, Barcelona will scrap the licences of the 10,101 apartments currently approved as short-term rentals.

"We are confronting what we believe is Barcelona's largest problem," Collboni told a city government event.

The boom in short-term rentals in Barcelona, Spain's most visited city by foreign tourists, means some residents cannot afford an apartment after rents rose 68% in the past 10 years and the cost of buying a house rose by 38%, Collboni said. Access to housing has become a driver of inequality, particularly for young people, he added.

National governments relish the economic benefits of tourism - Spain ranks among the top-three most visited countries in the world - but with local residents priced out in some places, gentrification and owner preference for lucrative tourist rentals are increasingly a hot topic across Europe.

Local governments have announced restrictions on short-term rentals in places such as Spain's Canary Islands, Lisbon and Berlin in the past decade.

Spain's Socialist housing minister, Isabel Rodriguez, said she supported Barcelona's decision.

"It's about making all the necessary efforts to guarantee access to affordable housing," she posted on X.

Vacation rentals platform Airbnb, which hosts a significant number of Barcelona listings, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

"Collboni is making a mistake that will lead to (higher) poverty and unemployment," Barcelona's tourist apartments association APARTUR said in a statement, adding the ban would trigger a rise in illegal tourist apartments.

Hotels stand to benefit from the move. The opening of new hotels in the city's most popular areas was banned by a far-left party governing Barcelona between 2015 and 2023, but Collboni has signalled he could relax the restriction.

Barcelona's hotel association declined to comment on Friday's announcement.

"Those 10,000 apartments will be used by the city's residents or will go on the market for rent or sale," Collboni said of the measure.

Barcelona's local government said in a statement it would maintain its "strong" inspection regime to detect potential illegal tourist apartments once the ban comes into force.

No new tourist apartments have been allowed in the city in recent years. The local government has ordered the shutting of 9,700 illegal tourist apartments since 2016 and close to 3,500 apartments have been recovered to be used as primary housing for local residents, it said.

(This story has been refiled to remove the extraneous word 'said' in paragraph 13)

(Reporting by Joan Faus; Additional reporting by Corina Pons and David Latona; Editing by Aislinn Laing and Frances Kerry)

Copyright 2024 Thomson Reuters .

Photos You Should See - June 2024

Join the Conversation

Tags: United States , Europe , Spain

America 2024

Healthiest Communities

Your trusted source for in-depth analysis on the issues impacting your community’s well-being delivered right to your inbox.

Sign in to manage your newsletters »

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

You May Also Like

The 10 worst presidents.

U.S. News Staff Feb. 23, 2024

The Best Cartoons on Donald Trump

June 25, 2024, at 9:35 a.m.

Joe Biden Behind The Scenes

June 7, 2024

Will The Economy Matter at the Debate?

Tim Smart June 25, 2024

Home Prices Set All-Time Record

The Week in Cartoons June 24-28

June 25, 2024, at 9:38 a.m.

Dobbs Anniversary Fuel for Dems Fire

Cecelia Smith-Schoenwalder June 24, 2024

Why the Bowman-Latimer Race Matters

Aneeta Mathur-Ashton June 24, 2024

Where Americans Go for Abortions

Cecelia Smith-Schoenwalder and Julia Haines June 24, 2024

Debate, Inflation Could Move Markets

Tim Smart June 24, 2024

[email protected] | +34 610-11-40-08

The city of Barcelona is one of the most visited places in the world. Many homeowners that are not from Spain have properties all around the city, and they rent them to visitors on a short-term basis for them to profit, so they need a tourist licence in Barcelona.

Even though the process can be confusing, with the help of a good company, it will be a lot easier. Our company is called Advisors Costa Blanca , and our main goal is to assist anyone who needs legal services in Spain, and we offer you the possibility of applying for a tourist license in Barcelona.

Requirements for a tourist licence in Barcelona

In order to apply for a tourist licence in Barcelona, you need to keep in mind the following requirements.

• You need an ID to verify that the property has a liveable standard and that is legal.
• The property needs to be used only as a tourism house.
• You must present contact numbers that can be used in emergency cases and the local police, hospital and the Town Hall must have your phone number.
•   All renters have to present an Official Complaint Form.
• You have to assist the Town Hall to apply for a permit from the regional government, contact us and you can do it for you.

The application process

After fulfilling all the requirements, you can start the application process to obtain your own tourist licence in Barcelona.

First, you need to go to the Town Hall with all the right documents and enough money to pay for the request (this includes municipal taxes and procedures) . The cost will depend on your municipality.

At the Town Hall, you can make your application official and you have to wait for approval. If your request is approved, you will receive a designated tourist licence number (which stands for your property’s province). Before the authorization, you can’t rent your house or apartment.

Once you receive approbation, you will be given access to perform an online register to become a renter. The process is legal, so this means you have to share personal information.

• Contact details
• Your passport number
• Duration of stay

Important: Make sure there are never more occupants than the maximum number stated in the occupancy certification.

Allowed properties for a tourist licence in Barcelona

The properties must meet a series of requirements , and these are established by the Town Hall. If there are rooms that need fixing, you need to start working on them for your property to be permitted. Rooms must have appropriate furniture and the cleaning service needs to be optimal before any rental.

Other rules state that guests have the right to contact both laundry and emergency services at any time , as well as have access to first aid kits and a fire extinguisher. Any marketing agency or managing rental properties must comply with permits. All of the properties must be inspected by a Town Hall representative, to make sure they fulfil the requirements.

Restrictions in Barcelona for renters

In Barcelona, there are certain restrictions when it comes to renting properties. The City Council has increased the level of difficulty for people to apply to become renters. If you want to apply for one tourist licence in Barcelona in Ciutat Vella or Gothic Quarter, your property has to be impeccable and it has to present every required document.  

IMPORTANT : Many people think that buying a licence from someone else is going to allow them to rent their properties, but if this is the case, there will be legal consequences. The rules most likely will change, and our recommendation is to always have the advice of a professional before entering the world of renting houses or apartments.

Things to consider before applying for a tourist licence

Every year is harder to get a tourist licence in Barcelona if you are planning to get a licence, do it as soon as possible.

SUSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER

Don’t miss out on important inmigration infomation!

• Architect Documents (1)
• Buy and Sell Properties (1)
• Driving Licence (1)
• NIE Number (13)
• Documents in Spain (5)
• Residency requirements in Spain (1)
• SIP Card (2)
• Tourist Licence (5)
• Property rental agreements (1)

OUR SERVICES

• SPANISH RESIDENCY CARD
• TOURIST LICENCE AND RENTAL TAX
• SIP CARD / HEALTHCARE
• SPANISH DRIVING LICENCE
• SPANISH WILL
• BUYING A PROPERTY IN SPAIN
• Privacy Policy

The Taxable Event in the Non-Resident Income Tax Spain

by Yann | May 23, 2024 | NIE Number

Before delving into the taxable event, it is important to recall who the taxpayers under the Non-Resident Income Tax Spain(IRNR) are, as outlined in Article 8 of the Consolidated Text of the Personal Income Tax Law (TRLIRPF): Individuals and entities not residing in...

Can the Community of owners Prohibit Your Tourist Rental?

by Yann | May 11, 2024 | Property rental agreements , Tourist Licence , Tourist rental license and taxes

Do you want to know if your neighbors can prohibit your tourist rental or tourist license? We explain how neighborhood prohibitions work and what Spanish law says Have in mind that some rules can change depending on the autonomous community, some have more strict...

Spanish residency permit process

by Yann | Mar 19, 2024 | Residency advice , Residency requirements in Spain

If you're considering moving to Spain, whether for personal, professional, or investment reasons, understanding the process of obtaining residency in this country is crucial. Obtaining residency in Spain can open doors to a life full of opportunities, but the process...

We've detected unusual activity from your computer network

To continue, please click the box below to let us know you're not a robot.

Why did this happen?

Please make sure your browser supports JavaScript and cookies and that you are not blocking them from loading. For more information you can review our Terms of Service and Cookie Policy .

For inquiries related to this message please contact our support team and provide the reference ID below.

• Country House
• FREE VALUATION
• LIST YOUR PROPERTY

Barcelona’s New Rental Law: House Owners Renting to Tourists Require License

Barcelona, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, has recently implemented a new rental law that has significant implications for house owners who rent their properties to tourists. Under this new law, house owners are now required to obtain a license in order to legally rent their properties to tourists.

Barcelona has been facing a surge in tourism over the past decade, leading to an increase in the number of properties being rented out to tourists. This trend has raised concerns among local residents, who argue that the influx of tourists is driving up rental prices and causing a shortage of affordable housing options.

In response to these concerns, the Barcelona City Council introduced the new rental law to regulate the short-term rental market. Anyone already renting their property will have to apply for the license in the next 5 years or will be forced to cease business.

Key Provisions of the Rental Law:

• License Requirement: The most significant provision of the new rental law is the requirement for house owners to obtain a license before renting their properties to tourists. This license ensures that the property meets certain safety and quality standards, protecting the well-being of tourists and maintaining the reputation of Barcelona as a tourist-friendly city.
• Maximum Rental Period: The law also imposes a maximum rental period for tourist accommodations. House owners can only rent their properties for a maximum of 120 days per year. This provision aims to prevent the excessive commercialization of residential properties and preserve the availability of long-term rentals for local residents.
• Registration with the City Council: House owners must register their rental properties with the Barcelona City Council and provide detailed information about the property, including its location, size, and amenities. This registration process helps the authorities keep track of the number of tourist accommodations in the city and enforce the regulations effectively.

Impact on House Owners:

The new rental law has both positive and negative implications for house owners. On one hand, obtaining a license ensures that their properties meet safety and quality standards, which can enhance the overall guest experience and attract more tourists. Additionally, the registration process allows house owners to operate legally and avoid potential fines or penalties.

On the other hand, the maximum rental period of 120 days per year may limit the income potential for house owners who heavily rely on short-term rentals. Moreover, the licensing process can be time-consuming and costly, especially for owners who own multiple properties. These factors may discourage some house owners from continuing to rent their properties to tourists.

Impact on the Tourism Industry:

Barcelona’s new rental law aims to strike a balance between the needs of local residents and the tourism industry. By regulating the short-term rental market, the law intends to address the concerns of residents regarding rising rental prices and housing shortages. It also aims to ensure that tourists have access to safe and quality accommodations during their stay in Barcelona.

However, critics argue that the new law may have a negative impact on the tourism industry. They believe that the restrictions on short-term rentals may reduce the availability of affordable accommodations for tourists, leading to a decline in tourism revenue. Additionally, some argue that the licensing requirements may discourage property owners from participating in the rental market, further limiting the options for tourists.

Conclusion:

Barcelona’s new rental law requiring house owners to obtain a license before renting their properties to tourists is a significant step towards regulating the short-term rental market. While it aims to address the concerns of local residents, it also poses challenges for house owners and the tourism industry. Striking a balance between the needs of residents and the tourism industry will be crucial in ensuring the long-term sustainability of Barcelona as a popular tourist destination.

Must Read Articles

For sale: los balcones, first floor with solarium and views ..., non-resident britons beware: spain imposes €10,000 fine for exceeding 90-day stay, unleash your adventurous spirit: top adventure places to visit in costa..., when to obtain permission from the owner for house changes in....

• Privacy Policy
• Web Design by Medianic

• Legal Advisor
• Tax Advisor 
• HR Consulting
• Starting a Business in Spain
• Taxes in Spain for foreigners
• Inheritance Tax in Spain
• Real estate lawyer in Spain
• Consultancy in Denia
• Consultancy in Valencia
• Free consultation
• Legal advisor
• Tax advisor
• HR consulting
• Inheritance tax in Spain

Tourist rental licence in Spain

If you own a property in Spain and want to rent it out for short stays, you will need to obtain a tourist license, and know all the taxes in Spain for foreigners .  In this article we explain how to obtain a license and all about taxes you will need to pay.   

What is a tourist licence?

The tourist licence in Spain is a compulsory declaration that allows owners to start renting out their property for tourist purposes or for short term rentals (less than 3 months).

Since January 2016, some of the biggest rental websites (Booking.com, HomeAway, Airbnb, etc…) ask for this tourist licence number. If the owner does not provide it, these websites deactivate the ads that they consider illegal in the eyes of the autonomous community where the property is located.

The tourist rental licence is compulsory in almost all Spanish autonomous communities, which have started to require the tourist rental licence in many Spanish cities, such as Alicante, Barcelona, Valencia… and have fined these companies very high amounts of money.

In addition to the tourist licence, in some provinces such as Alicante or Valencia there is a new requirement to obtain the tourist licence, which is the Certificate of Compatibility with Tourist Use, issued by the Town Hall of each city.

Why is it important to apply for a tourist licence?

There are many factors why it is important to legally rent your property in Spain, but the 2 most important reasons are:

1) Fines for tourist rentals.

The main reason is that many cities have started to make inspections and issue fines in the case of properties that do not have a tourist license. When we talk about fines, we are talking about thousands of euros.

2) Problems with insurance companies in tourist rental properties.

In addition, if something happens to your house and the insurance company realises that you were renting illegally, they would not be able to assume the cost of repairs.

The autonomous communities are in charge of regulating the holiday rental market in their region. Each region has different regulations, so it is important to check with them to find out your obligations. In fact, some of them have not yet established a specific decree for holiday rentals that requires the presentation of this licence.

The Autonomous Communities that require the Tourist Licence for all types of holiday rentals are the following: Andalusia, Aragon, Asturias, Catalonia, Balearic Islands, Canary Islands, Basque Country, Galicia, Community of Madrid, Murcia, Community of Valencia, Castile and Leon.

How much does it cost to obtain a tourist licence in Spain?

As we said, the procedure depends on each autonomous community and city, but it usually includes these costs:

• Compatibility report (€50 – €100).
• Licence number (40€ – 80€)

How long does it take?

It depends on each city, and can be from 3 months to 1.5 years.

How much is the Rental Tax in Spain?

There are two different ways to pay this tax:

Rental tax as a resident

If you are resident in Spain you have to declare your rental income annually with your annual tax declaration as a resident.

Rental tax as a non-resident

If you are a non-resident in Spain and you want to rent out your property, you must pay tax. This tax is called Impuesto sobre el Alquiler and must be paid every quarter (20th January, April, July and October), but only the quarter in which income is received.

This declaration must be submitted to the tax office in Spain.

Declaring the rental tax has some advantages:

• You will obviously be renting legally and you will be able to advertise to get bookings safely and securely.
• You will be able to deduct some of the expenses you have on the property. For non-residents in Spain who are resident in other EU countries (plus Norway and Iceland, and at the moment the UK) this type of income is assessed at 19%. Non-EU residents pay 24%.

Solve your doubts

✅ Our staff speaks perfectly Spanish, Valencian, English and German with what will be able to communicate with us in your own language and thus clearly resolve your queries.

📍 Denia – Plaza del Convento, 6 – Mezzanine floor door B 📍 Valencia – Calle Creu Roja, 1 – Block 6, Floor 1, door 10 (* only by appointment)

✉📞 Contact: [email protected] – Tel. +34 966 421 416 – Whatsapp +34 622 497 615

Follow us: Facebook – LinkedIn

We will be happy to answer any questions you may have about our services or blog articles.

FREE CONSULTATION

Latest articles

Barcelona plans to ban short-term rentals, hitting the owners of 10,000 apartments

• Barcelona plans to end short-term rentals by 2029 to address the housing crisis.
• Rents in Barcelona rose 36% from 2018 to 2022 amid a broader Spanish rental crisis.
• Opponents argue the ban won't significantly impact housing availability or rental prices.

Barcelona plans to end short-term rentals after complaints that tourism has priced locals out of the housing market.

In a blow to platforms such as Airbnb, the Spanish city will stop issuing new licenses and will not renew existing ones, Barcelona's mayor, Jaume Collboni, said at a press conference on Friday. The plan is that by 2029, no homes will be allowed to operate as short-term tourist accommodations.

"The city cannot allow such a large number of flats to be used for tourist activity at a time of difficulty of access to housing and when the negative effects of tourist overcrowding are obvious," Collboni said.

Like other Spanish cities, Barcelona requires properties to have a tourist license before they can be listed as rentals. There are about 10,000 apartments registered as tourist rentals.

The move is the latest by Spanish authorities to ease the housing crisis and reduce the cost of renting. Rents in Barcelona spiked 36% between 2018 and 2022, while those in the Spanish capital of Madrid were up 16%, according to an EY property report .

Barcelona became a short-term rental hot spot as tourists flocked to the city: The number of tourists increased from 7.4 million in 2012 to 15.6 million last year . Government officials have sparred with Airbnb and similar platforms over the years, imposing fines and various kinds of regulation that stopped well short of the new plan to not renew licenses.

Airbnb didn't immediately respond to a request for comment from Business Insider sent outside standard business hours.

In April last year, the Spanish government passed a historic housing law to address the issue, which included caps on rent increases, price limits in special zones, and an end to surprise evictions. Earlier this year, the government also scrapped "golden visas" to non-EU nationals, saying the visa program was adding to housing-supply pressures.

But critics say the Barcelona ban will do little to change the rental climate.

The opposition politician Damià Calvet said that not all 10,000 homes would go back on the market.

"Pretending that all 10,000 will have a residential use is not realistic," he told local media . Calvet said not all homes with licenses were actually rented out to tourists, with many owners keeping the license just to add value to the property in case they wanted to sell down the line.

"Tourist apartments represent just 0.77% of Barcelona's housing stock," Enrique Alcántara, the president of the Barcelona Tourist Apartments Association, told media after the announcement. "All it will do is increase the number of illegal tourist rentals," he added.

Global short-term rental restrictions

Other cities are similarly eyeing short-term rental restrictions to manage skyrocketing housing costs in what's been deemed the "Airbnb effect."

In Irvine, California, a ban on short-term stays in 2018 brought the cost of long-term rentals down 3% , or an average decrease of $114 a month, according to a study published in Real Estate Economics. Late last year, New York City implemented a similar move.

Cities including Vancouver, Tokyo, London, Amsterdam, and Paris have all placed restrictions on the short-term rental market.

Some Southeast Asian countries have banned short-term rentals completely.

In Singapore, it's illegal to rent any residential property for less than three months, while Thailand, like Irvine, forbids rentals for less than 30 days.

If you enjoyed this story, be sure to follow Business Insider on Microsoft Start.

Online bookings

24 hours a day

0044 (0) 20 3239 1595

English Phone

Mon-Fri: 8-16:00 GMT

Customer Service

• Barcelona Guide
• Airport Transfer
• Sightseeing Bus
• Attractions
• Visit Barcelona
• Neighborhoods
• Become a tourist guide in Barcelona

If you have visited Barcelona at least once in your life, we are sure you will want to come back or even move here. The level of tourism in the city of Barcelona is very high, and there are many reasons why visitors to the city want to take the step to move to the Catalan capital, especially because of the warm climate, good food and job opportunities.  Barcelona is a city that lives off tourism and finding work in this sector is quite simple: for example, have you thought about becoming a tourist guide? For those who have been following this dream for a long time, or have had their curiosity piqued... here is all the useful information! 

Difference between guide and companion 

Above all, it is important to know the difference between a tourist guide and a tourist companion. To make things simple, it could be said that the former works mainly inside the museums , galleries, archaeological excavations and attractions of the city; the latter is in charge of the service of welcoming tourists, of the trips and of the assistance in case of any need. The tourist companion , for example, will be responsible for purchasing tickets for transport or museums, while the guide will be the person with the knowledge and skills to tell the story of a particular painter, architect or general of the city.

How to become a tour guide

To become a tourist guide in Spain, it is necessary to take an exam that allows you to obtain the qualification, also known as a license, which consists of three parts: a written part, an oral part, and a technique that simulates a guided tour with the help of multimedia material. This exam can be taken at a regional or provincial level. The registration forms for the qualification test are published every two years and it is good to check the institutional websites of the said autonomous community or province. It is good to have studies related to the history of art, gastronomy or even interpretation. It is important to clarify that each region has its own regulations to regulate the obtaining of the qualification as tourist guide, but whose validity is of national level . It is also very useful to know languages. 

Requirements to become a tourist guide in Barcelona  

Becoming a tourist guide in Barcelona is possible if you already have a licence from another European country. All you have to do is apply for approval from the Spanish Ministry of Education . Among the fundamental requirements to become a tourist guide in Barcelona, besides the title, are the knowledge of Spanish and Catalan, the co-official language of Catalonia. It is also important to pass an exam that will be based on the requirements set by the autonomous community. If you are interested in obtaining this qualification as a tourist guide in Catalonia, which allows you to practice the profession of guide in Barcelona, take a look at this link on the Barcelona City Council website .

Tips to become a tour guide

As in all sectors, it is essential to have a good CV in order to present yourself to the future employer and to have the possibility of being hired as a tour guide . The advice is to collect a series of work and volunteer experiences linked to the world of tourism and training: start from the bottom to reach the top and try to present yourself as a tourist assistant in the well-known cooperative economy , that is, the economy of sharing. There are, in fact, some new apps that allow you to register as a tourist assistant, offering a series of services chosen in that city and being available to be contacted by foreign tourists who are curious to explore the chosen destinations with the help of a local person. The knowledge of at least one foreign language at a conversational level is fundamental to that end. Attend courses to perfect your knowledge of foreign languages... it will always be useful in the future! To be a tour guide it is also important to know how to deal with people, to be able to manage a certain audience so that they follow you physically and at a level of attention: these things cannot be learned in any other way, only through experience. A strategy to have something more in your favour is to attend the explanations of other guides and observe their behaviour during the job. For example, why not book a visit with a guide in Barcelona provided by Barcellona.shop and ask the source directly?

My comments

BARCELONA AIRPORT TAXI

Free Meet and Greet

BARCELONA GUIDE

Amazing experience

Good service and Low cost

GUIDED TOUR

• Work with us
• Barcelona Tour
• Barcelona Airport Taxi

Usage policy

• Privacy policy
• Terms and Conditions
• Refund Policy
• Barcelona City Council
• British Consulate

Select your language

• Sagrada Familia Tour
• Park Guell Tour
• Sagrada Familia Tour with Towers Access
• Tour Park Guell and the Sagrada Familia
• Tour of Camp Nou
• Sightseeing Bus Barcelona
• Sightseeing Bus and Camp Nou tour
• Barcelona Tourist Boat Trip
• Palau de la Música Tour
• Poble Espanyol Tour
• Tour Tapas and Wine in Barcelona
• A sweets and chocolate Tour in Barcelona
• Tour of Casa Vicens in Barcelona
• Tour of the Gothic Quarter + Picasso Museum in Barcelona
• Tour of the Gothic Quarter and Palau Güell in Barcelona
• Tour discovering the best of Gaudí in Barcelona
• Camp Nou + Tapas tour
• Wine tour in Barcelona
• City Tour and Boat Trip in Barcelona
• Flamenco Show at Tablao Cordobes in Barcelona

• Sagrada Familia Tickets
• Park Güell tickets
• Palau de la Música Tickets
• Casa Batlló Tickets
• La Pedrera Tickets
• Picasso Museum Tickets
• Casa de les Punxes Tickets
• Barcelona Liceu Theatre Tickets
• Tickets for Barcelona's Aquarium
• Tickets for Barcelona's Montjuïc Cable Car
• Palau Güell Tickets
• Camp Nou Tickets
• Casa Vicens Tickets
• Gaudi House Museum tickets
• Chocolate Museum Tickets in Barcelona
• Barcelona's Music Museum tickets
• Tickets for Erotic Museum of Barcelona
• House of the silk Tickets

• The Gothic Quarter
• La Barceloneta
• Vila de Gracia

• La Boquería
• Poble Espanyol
• Basilica of Santa María del Mar
• The Sagrada Familia
• Palau Güell: Gaudi's Palace
• Gaudi's Casa Batlló
• La Pedrera (Casa Milà)
• Aquarium Barcelona
• The Zoo and the Parc de la Ciutadella
• The Torre Agbar
• The Liceu Theater
• The Palau de la Música
• Plaza Catalunya
• Casa de les Punxes
• The House of Silk
• Pedralbes and the Monastery
• Casa Vicens
• Mirador del Carmel
• The Arco del Triunfo
• The Virreina Palace
• The Hospital of Sant Pau
• The Magic Fountain of Montjuïc

• The History Museum of Catalonia
• The Center of Contemporary Culture
• The Catalan National Art Museum
• Museum of Contemporary Art
• Gaudi Exhibition Center
• The Picasso Museum
• The Film Archive of Catalonia
• The Wax Museum
• The Amatller House Museum
• The Music Museum
• The Museum of Erotica
• The Joan Miró Foundation

• The Weather
• Christmas 2019
• New Year's Eve 2019
• The cost of living in Barcelona
• Spanish in Barcelona
• The Far-East in Barcelona
• Wifi and recharging in Barcelona
• Learn languages for free in Barcelona
• Catalan Independence and la DIADA

• Sarrià-Sant Gervasi
• Sants-Montjuïc

• Beaches in Barcelona
• Beaches around Barcelona

• Tour of Montserrat Barcelona
• Tour of Girona from Barcelona
• Shopping Express Tour
• Tour Illa Fantasia Water Park in Barcelona
• Tour Costa Brava
• Tour of Cardona and Montserrat
• Tour of the Pyrenees and the Vall de Núria
• Ferrari Land Tour

• Meeting new people

• Rent a house in Barcelona
• Working as an au pair or baby sitter
• Working in Barcelona

• Guided tours with a Local
• The best free things to visit in Barcelona
• The best Barcelona's panoramic views
• Guide for Cruise Passengers
• Itinerary of the arts in Barcelona
• Musical tour in Barcelona
• Tourist itinerary of Barcelona
• A second visit to Barcelona
• Barcelona Tourist Guide
• iVENTURE CARD Barcelona

• Resale Property Purchase
• New Build Property Purchase
• Selling Your Property

The rules for getting a tourist licence

The Rules for Getting a Tourist Licence

If you're looking to rent out your property to tourists in spain on a site such as airbnb, it's important to know all the rules and regulations. find out all the requirements you'll need to get a tourist licence in each region in spain..

Many people looking to buy in Spain may want to buy a Spanish property as an investment and rent it out on Airbnb or similar. Or perhaps they want to use it as a holiday home and then rent it out to tourists during the rest of the year.

If this is your plan, you need to be aware that in most cases you will need a tourist licence in order to legally rent your property out short term.

As with many rules and regulations in Spain, it will depend on where in Spain your property is located. Each of Spain’s 17 regions has its own slightly different rules when it comes to renting out to tourists. Sometimes it will even depend on what city or town you live in as these rules can also differ from the wider regional laws. This is usually the case for big cities that are popular with tourists such as Barcelona, San Sebastian and Valencia.

In order to obtain a tourist licence, in most instances you will need to go to your local town hall or ayuntamiento to find out your local regulations and fill out the necessary paper work. Be aware, however that getting a tourist licence for all locations may not be possible. For example, the city of Barcelona no longer issues any tourist licences, so the only way to be able to rent out in the city is to buy a property that already has a licence.

Here are the requisites that the regions of Valencia and Murcia and what they require in order for you to be able to get a licence, if it’s legally available.

Decree No. 256/2019 which regulates homes for tourist use in the region of Murcia has the following rules: 

• Individual rooms may be rented out, as long as the owner resides and is registered in the house.
• It must be rented out temporarily, although the maximum period is not determined.
• It must have hot and cold water.
• It must have a fire extinguisher.
• A statement of responsibility is required.

Law 15/2018 of the Generalitat of Valencia, on tourism, leisure and hospitality states:

• Tourist properties require a favourable report of urban compatibility issued by the town hall of the municipality they’re located in.
• Properties must be rented out temporarily, although the maximum period is not determined.
• The entire house will have to be rented.

You need to register any tourist accommodation in Valencia with Valencia’s Tourism Register by submitting a formal notice to the Territorial Tourism Service of the province where your apartment is located and state your intention to use the property for tourist accommodation. You can find out more about Valencia’s tourism accommodation laws  here . 

Once you have been granted your licence you must display your registration number on your Airbnb listing.

In June 2018 the Municipality of Valencia issued various limitations for tourist apartments in the city. These are: 

• The tourist accommodation must be located on the ground floor or the first floor.
• The apartment must not be located above or on the same landing as another private residential dwelling.
• The building must not have more than 50 percent of tourist accommodation.
• In the Ciutat Vella, you can only rent your apartment out to tourists for a maximum of 60 days.

In January 2019 a municipal decree for Valencia city was introduced which requires you to renew your tourist licence every five years.

About Post Author

Recent Posts

Meet the Team

Barcelona plans to shut all holiday apartments by 2028 as mayor seeks to tackle housing crisis

Barcelona, a top Spanish holiday destination, announced on Friday that it will bar apartment rentals to tourists by 2028, an unexpectedly drastic move as it seeks to rein-in soaring housing costs and make the city liveable for residents.

The city's leftist mayor, Jaume Collboni, said that by November 2028, Barcelona will scrap the licences of the 10,101 apartments currently approved as short-term rentals.

"We are confronting what we believe is Barcelona's largest problem," Mr Collboni told a city government event.

The boom in short-term rentals in Barcelona, Spain's most visited city by foreign tourists, means some residents cannot afford an apartment after rents rose 68 per cent in the past 10 years and the cost of buying a house rose by 38 per cent, Mr Collboni said.

Access to housing has become a driver of inequality, particularly for young people, he added.

National governments relish the economic benefits of tourism — Spain ranks among the top three most visited countries in the world — but with local residents priced out in some places, gentrification and owner preference for lucrative tourist rentals are increasingly a hot topic across Europe.

Local governments have announced restrictions on short-term rentals in places such as Lisbon, Berlin and Spain's Canary Islands in the past decade.

Spain's housing minister, Isabel Rodriguez, said she supported Barcelona's decision.

"It's about making all the necessary efforts to guarantee access to affordable housing," she posted on X.

Vacation rentals platform Airbnb, which hosts a significant number of Barcelona listings, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

"Collboni is making a mistake that will lead to [higher] poverty and unemployment," Barcelona's tourist apartments association, APARTUR, said in a statement, adding the ban would trigger a rise in illegal tourist apartments.

Hotels stand to benefit from the move. The opening of new hotels in the city's most popular areas was banned by a far-left party governing Barcelona between 2015 and 2023, but Mr Collboni has signalled he could relax the restriction.

Barcelona's hotel association declined to comment on Friday's announcement.

"Those 10,000 apartments will be used by the city's residents or will go on the market for rent or sale," Mr Collboni said of the measure.

Barcelona's local government said in a statement it would maintain its "strong" inspection regime to detect potential illegal tourist apartments once the ban comes into force.

No new tourist apartments have been allowed in the city in recent years. The local government has ordered the closure of 9,700 illegal tourist apartments since 2016, and close to 3,500 apartments have been recovered to be used as primary housing for local residents, it said.

• X (formerly Twitter)
• Housing Policy
• Local Government
• Tourism and Leisure Industry
• Urban Development and Planning

Tue 25 Jun 2024

2024 newspaper of the year

@ Contact us

Your newsletters

Election Latest

Barcelona reveals plans to scrap holiday rentals by 2028, 'no tourist flats in barcelona,' the mayor of the city has said, announcing plans to reclaim 10,000 short-term rentals for housing.

The mayor of top Spanish holiday hotspot Barcelona has announced plans to scrap holiday apartments by 2028 and reclaim the homes for residents in an unexpected crackdown on tourism in the city.

Barcelona mayor Jaume Collboni said on Friday the city would scrap the licences of the 10,101 apartments currently approved as short-term rentals by November 2028.

“We are confronting what we believe is Barcelona’s largest problem,” Mr Collboni told a city government event. “Those 10,000 apartments will be used by the city’s residents or will go on the market for rent or sale,” he said.

“We want to guarantee the right to live in Barcelona and deal effectively with the housing crisis we have been suffering for years,” he said in a follow-up statement posted on X, formerly Twitter.

“For this reason, from the city council, we act: No tourist flat in Barcelona. We will recover the current 10,101 … homes… We improve the 30 per cent rule to make the promotion of affordable housing in the city effective. Administration, society and the real estate sector must join forces to protect the right to housing.”

The boom in short-term rentals in the popular city has led to a steep rise in the cost of living for locals, Mr Colbini said, with rents rising 68 per cent in the last 10 years and the cost of buying a home up nearly 40 per cent.

The move was backed by Spain’s socialist housing minister, Isabel Rodriguez, who said: “This is what it is about – making all the necessary efforts to guarantee access to decent and affordable housing.

“You have my full support in this task. Barcelona will eliminate the city’s tourist apartments in five years.”

Barcelona received 16 million tourists in 2023, according to the Barcelona Tourism Observatory. However, locals across Spain have become increasingly vocal about pushing back on overtourism, with protests held in Mallorca , Ibiza, and other areas this summer.

Local governments have also announced restrictions on short-term rentals in places like Spain’s Canary Islands, Lisbon in Portugal, and Berlin, Germany in the past decade.

Tourism risks permanently damaging Spain, researchers warn

Holiday rental platform Airbnb has not yet responded to the move, but Barcelona’s tourist apartments association APARTUR said the ban would trigger a rise in illegal tourist apartments

“Collboni is making a mistake that will lead to (higher) poverty and unemployment,” it said.

Mr Collboni also signalled that he could relax a previous restriction on new hotels opening in the city after they were banned from opening in certain areas between 2015 and 2023, Reuters reported.

Barcelona’s hotel association declined to comment on Friday’s announcement.

Barcelona’s local government said in a statement it would maintain its “strong” inspection regime to detect potential illegal tourist apartments once the ban comes into force.

The move is an extension of a current policy that has not allowed new tourist apartments in the city in recent years. The local government has ordered the shutting of 9,700 illegal tourist apartments since 2016 and close to 3,500 apartments have been recovered to be used as primary housing for local residents, it said.

With agencies

Most Read By Subscribers

PCMag editors select and review products independently . If you buy through affiliate links, we may earn commissions, which help support our testing .

• No More Airbnb: Barcelona Plans to Ban Short-Term Rentals

Barcelona Mayor Jaume Collboni says the city will not renew or issue licenses for short-term rentals, effectively phasing them out over the next five years.

Starting in 2029, Airbnb rentals will no longer be an option for Barcelona tourists.

The city plans to ban short-term rentals starting in 2029, citing Barcelona's housing crisis and its high rent prices, Bloomberg reports .

At a press conference on Friday, Barcelona Mayor Jaume Collboni said the city will not renew licenses for short-term rentals or provide licenses for new properties. The move means short-term rentals will effectively be phased out in the next five years.

“This measure will not change the situation from one day to the next. These problems take time. But with this measure, we are marking a turning point,” Collboni said.

Like many major cities, short-term rentals in Barcelona have diminished the number of available homes, leading to higher rent prices and forcing many middle-class families to move. Rent prices in Barcelona have reportedly increased 14% over the past year.

Bloomberg notes that while Barcelona isn’t the only city to oppose short-term rentals, its response is perhaps the most aggressive. Tokyo and New York require hosts to live in the apartments that they rent out, and other cities have placed limits on the number of nights someone can stay in a short-term rental or how many properties a host can potentially list.

More Inside PCMag.com

• 5 Lesser-Known Air Travel Tips to Use Before Heading to the Airport
• Online Passport Renewals Are Back, If You Act Fast Enough
• The Best Travel Apps for 2024
• Our Favorite Frequent-Traveler Picks: Top-Rated Tech to Take on Your Next Trip
• Enter the World of X-Men 97 and Other Pop Culture Favs Courtesy of Airbnb

About Emily Price

Emily is a freelance writer based in Durham, NC. Her work has appeared in The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times , Lifehacker, Popular Mechanics , Macworld, Engadget, Computerworld, and more. You can also snag a copy of her book Productivity Hacks: 500+ Easy Ways to Accomplish More at Work--That Actually Work! online through Simon & Schuster or wherever books are sold.

More From Emily Price

• Decades of MTV News Content Wiped From the Internet
• After Protests, Apple May Replace iPhone Assembly Workers With Automation
• RIAA Sues Popular AI Song Generators for Training on Major Artists' Work
• An AI-Generated Elon Musk Just Stole Bitcoin From Viewers Via YouTube Live

Would you like us to call you?

If you need to know more about this property, please leave us your telephone number and we will contact you as soon as possible..

Echa un vistazo a este increíble inmueble en Barcelona Ciudad (Dreta de l'Eixample)

BCNP1774 | Eixample

Excellent apartment with Tourist License

A 20th century property located in a recently renovated Modernist Estate in the Eixample Dret, where most of the buildings of great heritage value are located and very close to the main places of interest. Impeccable state of the common areas, both the main entrance and the staircase itself. An area of great architectural beauty and recognized prestige in one of the most emblematic areas of Barcelona.

The apartment, completely reformed, of 75 m2 consists of a living room fused with a kitchen, two double bedrooms and a complete bathroom.

The house has a tourist license. Whether it is for living or as an investment for its existing tourist rental operation, there is no doubt that this is a very interesting opportunity.

• Fitted kitchen
• Laundry room
• Air conditioning
• Alarm system
• Concierge service
• High ceilings
• Wooden floors
• Natural light
• Tourist license

Characteristics

• Beach nearby
• Cafes/ Restaurantes
• Near the city center
• Near a port
• Residential area
• Nearby public transport
• Metropolitan

The Eixample district is the most emblematic of Barcelona since the nineteenth century. Of a renowned model urban planning devised by the engineer Ildefons Cerdá, Eixample marks the epicenter of the city from its main streets: The luxurious Passeig de Gràcia, the commercial Rambla de Catalunya and the updated Passeig de Sant Joan, housing the majority of the modernist architectural icons, such as La Sagrada Familia, La Pedrera or La Casa Batlló of the great Antoni Gaudí. It is a large, quiet but exciting  residential area with extremely convenient commercial activity, designed to respect the privacy of the homes.

The Catalan modernist architecture so characteristic of stately airs, but with great cosmopolitan touches, extends throughout the neighborhood to the delight of those who wish to live modernism from within, since it is possible to acquire homes within regal estates with valuable original architectural elements, period pieces and even historical and protected.

Schools, squares, wadis, parks, stores and restaurants give dynamism to the area that differentiates the Right from the Left, both with wide uniform streets, octagonal islands and wide island interiors that mark the internal distribution of buildings and homes. You will mostly find buildings of strong bricks, floors of generally wide dimensions, medium or high ceilings, with balconies that give to the wide streets or the inner patios of the Cerdá Plan.

Keep in mind this living in the Eixample district , if you are looking for a neighborhood where you can have everything within walking distance or very well connected to public transport, both basic and luxury stores, trendy restaurants or even your workplace among the many offices and stores, this could be your neighborhood.

If you want to walk among the iconic monuments of the city, with the comfort of equal distance to any other point or neighborhood in the city. Consider Eixample if you are a lover of modernist, stately and typical Catalan architecture and a high street feeling. If you want to live in the vital and cultural epicenter of Barcelona, where everything happens.

Explore similar properties

Maresme / Barcelona Costa Norte | MARP6067

Centrally located house in Alella – Costa BCN

Costa Brava Center | BEGP6153

Nice semi-detached house with sea views in Begur

Sitges / Barcelona Costa Sur | SITP6084

Fully renovated townhouse in the old center of Sant Pere de Ribes

Request more information.

Ref: BCNP1774

Barcelona plans to shut all holiday apartments by 2028

• Medium Text

Sign up here.

Reporting by Joan Faus Additional reporting by Corina Pons and David Latona Editing by Aislinn Laing and Frances Kerry

Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. New Tab , opens new tab

Thomson Reuters

Joan is a Barcelona-based correspondent reporting on politics, economics and social issues, such as migration and the car industry’s green transition, and also conducting investigative pieces. With over 15 years of experience, Joan previously worked as Washington correspondent for Spain’s leading newspaper EL PAÍS, closely covering the Obama and Trump administrations, electoral campaigns and major news; at Spanish newspapers Ara and Público in Madrid, and at EFE news agency in Buenos Aires and Barcelona. He is a journalism graduate from Barcelona’s Autonomous University, including an exchange program in Amsterdam and New York, and holds a business executive degree from IESE Business School

World Chevron

Canada's Trudeau to stay in office after special election 'disaster'

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made clear on Tuesday he would stay in office amid fresh questions about his future after the ruling Liberal Party lost a safe seat in a special election.

Select language

• View Shortlist ( 0 )

Property Categories

• All Properties
• Beach Properties
• Luxury Villas
• New Developments
• Bargain Villas
• Bargain & Projects
• Commercial Properties
• Golf Properties
• Inland Properties
• Plots of Land

Property Areas

• Benalmadena
• Alhaurín de la Torre
• Alhaurín el Grande

Buyers Resources

• Buying Process
• Buying a New Development
• Living in Spain After Brexit
• Mortgage Advice
• Moving to Spain from US
• Malaga Airport Car Hire

Sell Your Property

• Request Estimate
• What We Offer
• Selling Process
• Selling Tips
• List Your Property For Free
• Costs of Selling Your Property

• Long-Term Rentals
• Villas & Townhouses

Short-Term (Holiday)

• Holiday Rentals
• Rental Management
• Key Holding Service
• Renters Guide
• Renting Your Property
• Riviera del Sol
• Legal Services
• Property Management
• Interior Designers
• Furniture Packages
• Kitchen Suppliers
• TV & Internet In Spain
• Help & Advice Index
• Living in Spain
• Moving Process
• Spanish Culture
• Health Care
• Employment & Finance
• Property Guides
• Cheap Flights Guide
• Leave Us a Review
• Testimonials
• Welcome to Right Casa
• Privacy Policy

Renting In Spain

Everything you need to know about getting a tourist licence to rent out your spanish property.

Posted: Apr 28, 2023 | Tags: tourist licence , renting

If you own your own Spanish holiday home, then you may be tempted to rent out your property when you’re not using it. You may even wish to invest in a buy-to-let property in your favourite part of Spain. Short-term letting can be a great way to earn an additional income, something that is increasingly important to many families amid the cost-of-living crisis.

But if you want to let your property to tourists, either independently or via a site such as AirBnB, then you will need to get a tourist licence. You cannot legally rent out a property in the short-term in Spain without a tourist licence, which will demonstrate that you have conformed to relevent housing regulations.

Whether you are eligible for this licence, and how you can obtain one, will depend on where you live. Like so many things, the rules vary across the 17 autonomous regions. Within each region, you may also find that the rules differ depending on whether you live in the city or in the countryside. Here’s everything you need to know:

How To Get A Tourist Licence In Spain

To secure a tourist licence in Spain , you will need to visit your local town hall. Here you should fill in the required paperwork to obtain a tourist licence, but this will only be granted if you meet all the rules and regulations outlined below. In some cases, even with the correct paperwork, a tourist licence will never be granted. For example, the city of Barcelona no longer issues any tourist licences, so the only way to be able to rent out in the city is to buy a property that already has a licence.

Here are the rules you need to know about for securing a tourist licence in each of the 17 regions:

The rules for securing a tourist licence in Andalusia are well-established, having been laid out in Decree 28/2016 and modified Decree 194/2010. These rules state that tourist properties:

• Cannot be rented for longer than two months
• Can be rented on a room only basis, provided the owner also lives in the property
• Rooms must be provided with direct external ventilation, curtain or blinds, and a cooling system in the summer months, as well as a heating system in the winter.
• The property owner must complete a statement of responsibility

An application for a tourist licence may be rejected if it is opposed by neighbourhood communities, and the rules may vary from city. For example in Seville, the city council has said that all tourist rentals must now meet the same requirements as a hotel. You are advised to research your specific city before you make an application.

It is possible to secure a tourist licence in Aragon, provided your property meets the following criteria:

• Properties that are let out for less than a month must comply with state mandated safety regulations
• Properties must have heating and hot and cold running water
• The property must be rented out in its entirety. Room lets are not permitted.
• Property owners must complete a statement of responsibility

New guidelines on holiday lets were introduced in Asturias in 2016. These guidelines state that:

• Both whole house and room by room rentals are permitted. The owner of the property does not need to reside in it to let the property on a room by room basis.
• Rentals can only be on a temporary basis.
• Each property must have hot and cold running water, heating, emergency lighting and a fire extinguisher.
• Each room must have direct ventilation to the outside and curtains or blinds.
• Property owners must complete a statement of responsibility.

Balearic Islands

The availability of tourist licenses on the Balearic Islands is determined by Law 6/2017 and amending Law 8/2012 on tourism. This law states that the councils can regulate tourist activities on an ad hoc basis. In real terms, this means that buying a property to let out to tourists here is a risk as the rules could change at any time. The current rules state that:

• Only whole properties can be let
• Tourism lets cannot be marketed for periods of more than one month.
• Each property must have an energy efficiency certificate, with a minimum rating of F in homes up to 2007 (inclusive) and D in homes from 2008 onwards.
• In properties where there is a community of owners, an agreement of the board of owners is required.

Basque Country

For tourism properties to be let in the Basque Country they must adhere to the following rules:

• They cannot be rented out for periods of longer than 12 months
• They can be rented out whole, or by room provided the owner is residing in the property

Whilst these general rules apply, they can vary between town and city. For example, in San Sebastián, neither tourist flats nor hotels can be opened in the Old Town.

Canary Islands

For tourism properties to be let in the Canary Islands, they must adhere to the following rules:

• Rentals can only be temporary, and cannot imply that the users place of residence has changed
• Properties can only be rented in their entirety and not by room

Each island will also have their own additional rules and regulations, so if you wish to operate a tourist rental in the Canary Islands then it’s important to research these in full by visiting your local town hall.

The latest decree on tourist rentals in Cantabria was updated in 2019 and states that:

• The property can be rented out whole or by room, but only if the owner resides in the property
• The property must have a fire extinguisher on every floor and a certificate of occupancy
• Property owners must complete a statement of occupancy

Castilla-La Mancha

The latest decree on tourist rentals in Castilla-La-Mancha states that:

• Properties cannot be let by room, only whole properties can be let.
• The let must be temporary, but no maximum rental length has been stated.
• The property must comply with the provisions of current regulations on habitability and safety for residential use as a home.
• The property must have direct ventilation to the outside or to patios, with blinds or curtains on the windows.
• The property must have heating and air conditioning in the bedrooms and living room.
• The property must have at least a living-dining room, kitchen, bedroom and bathroom. Smaller properties cannot be used for holiday lets.

Castilla y León

The rules for tourist rental properties in Castilla y Leon state that:

• The maximum rental period for tourist lets is two months.
• Each property must have at least a stand-alone bedroom, living-dining room, kitchen and bathroom. The only exception to this is in the case of purpose build studio-type tourist apartments, in which the bedroom, living-dining room and kitchen can all occupy the same open plan space.
• Bedrooms must be at least 7m² in the case of single bedrooms, 10 m² for doubles, and 4 m² for each additional bed
• Each bedroom must have direct external ventilation, and fitted blinds or curtains. Kitchens must also have direct ventilation.
• The property should have heating and hot and cold running water.

The rules regarding tourist lets in Catalonia have not been updated since Decree 159 was granted in 2012. This decree still stands and states that:

• Properties cannot be let for periods of longer than one month
• Properties must be inspected and have a certificate of habitability.
• The local town hall must be notified in advance before each new set of guests arrive.

Although Barcelona is in Catalonia, the city has its own set of rules regarding holiday lets. Barcelona will no longer issue tourist licences, so you should not buy a property here if you are planning to let it out.

Extremadura

There are no specific rules and regulations for holiday lets in Extremadura. But to justify all the regulations of tourist apartments, it is necessary to carry out an activity project, signed by a technician and endorsed by the corresponding college. If you wish to let out a property in Extremadura then your property must:

• Comply with accessibility regulations and fire regulations.
• Comply with minimum size requirements. For example, ceiling heights for rented properties cannot be less than 2.5 metres.
• Each bedroom must have access to a direct light source and fitted curtains or blinds.
• The property must have hot and cold water and heating.

Management of tourist properties in Galicia is determined by decree 12/2017 which states that:

• Properties can only be rented for short term periods of less than 31 days
• Properties can only be rented in their entirety, and cannot be let on a room by room basis
• Property owners must submit a declaration for each new set of guests that arrive

To let a property to tourists in La Rioja, the following conditions must be met:

• The whole property must be rented. It is not permitted to let rooms or part-properties
• Lets can only be temporary, although a maximum permitted rental period is not included in the guidelines
• Your local town hall must be informed when each new set of tourists to the property arrives

The use of tourist properties in Madrid is regulated by Decree 79/2014 of the Governing Council. This decree outlines the following terms for tourist lets in Madrid:

• Property owners must present a Certificate of suitability for housing for tourist use (CVUT), drawn up by an architect, certifying that the established requirements are met.
• The property must have hot and cold water, heating, direct ventilation to the outside, a fire extinguisher, emergency signs and an evacuation plan.

The use of tourist properties in Murcia is regulated by Decree No. 256/2019. This decree states that short term rental properties must adhere to the following rules:

• Individual rooms in a property can be let, but only if the owner resides in the property.
• All lets must only be temporary, but no maximum occupancy period for short-term lets is given
• Each property must have hot and cold running water and a fire extinguisher

Because Navarre still doesn’t have specific regulations for tourist properties, if you wish to let out a property to tourists in the region then you will need to carry out an activity project, signed by a technician and endorsed by the corresponding college. In addition to this your property must:

• Have a fire extinguisher, emergency lighting and an emergency plan.
• Have hot water and heating.
• Only be occupied for a maximum period of three months
• Homeowners must complete a statement of responsibility

If you wish to secure a tourist licence in Valencia then you should ensure that you meet the following criteria:

• The whole house should be rented. It is not possible to rent rooms or part properties in Valencia.
• Tourist lets can only be temporary, although a maximum time frame for this is not specified
• Tourist properties require a favourable report of urban compatibility issued by the town hall of the municipality they're located in.

 Are you thinking of living and working in Spain? Does the idea of a nomadic lifestyle appeal to you? Whether you dream is to buy a property in Spain or rent a property in Spain, Right Casa Estate Agents is perfectly placed to help you find the home of your dreams with offices in Calahonda and Alhaurin de la Torre , we have over 2000 properties on the Costa Del Sol for sale! Get in touch today to find out more about how we can help you.

Search articles

Receive Article Updates

Featured properties

Article Categories

Featured Properties

RightCasa Market Analysis Request

Let our experts find the right property for you, share article, send by email.