How To Register A Short-Term Holiday Rental Property In Andalusia

On May 11, 2016, new legislation came into effect in Andalusia which means that owners of short-term holiday rentals have to legally register them with the Tourism Registry of Andalusia. The change was introduced to improve quality standards, ensure public safety, protect communities, and guarantee that rental income is properly taxed. Nearly a decade later, in 2025, the rules are stricter, enforcement is tougher, and registration is essential if you want to rent your property legally. This updated guide explains who must register, what the requirements are, and how to complete the process in 2025.

Why Did the Tourist Property Regulations Change?

The original regulations, introduced in 2016, were created in response to a rapid rise in private holiday rentals through platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com. Hotel groups and local businesses lobbied for change, arguing that unregulated rentals created unfair competition. The government also needed to establish minimum quality and safety standards, ensure that rental activity was taxed correctly, and track visitors for public security reasons. Environmental concerns in coastal and rural areas also pushed for stronger oversight. These reasons still underpin the regulations today, but enforcement has intensified significantly in 2025.

Do I Need to Register My Property?

If you offer accommodation for short-term stays (less than 2 months) on residential land and promote it through rental platforms, estate agencies, or tourism channels, you are legally required to register your property with the Tourism Registry of Andalusia. This applies whether you rent directly or through third-party websites. Registration is mandatory if you advertise your property to tourists, even occasionally.

What is Classed as a Holiday Rental Property?

Under Andalusian law, a holiday rental property is any dwelling offered for short stays (less than 60 days) to tourists in exchange for payment, and located on residential land. This includes apartments, houses, villas, and city flats. Properties in rural settings may instead fall under Viviendas Rurales regulations.

Are There Any Exemptions?

Yes. You do not need to register if you are offering accommodation for free, renting to the same tenant for longer than two months, or if you own three or more properties in the same building (these are classed differently as tourist apartments). Rural properties have a separate registration process under different laws.

What is a VFT Number?

The VFT (Vivienda con Fines Turísticos) number is the registration number issued by the Tourism Registry once your property is accepted. It must be displayed on all advertising, both online and offline. Until your permanent VFT number is issued, you may be given a temporary CTC number, which allows you to start renting legally during the processing period.

What Are the Requirements for Letting Out a Property in 2025?

As of 2025, holiday rental properties must meet specific minimum standards:

• An Occupancy Licence (Licencia de Ocupación) issued by the local council.
• Direct ventilation in all rooms and effective window darkening systems (blinds or shutters).
• Heating available if rented October to April, and air conditioning if rented May to September.
• Furnished and equipped for immediate use with adequate appliances, utensils, bedding, and towels.
• A complaints book for guests, kept visibly on the premises.
• A first aid kit available in the property.
• Tourist information provided about the local area, services, maps, and emergency contacts.
• Clear instructions for guests on how to use appliances and installations safely.
• Emergency contact number available 24/7 for guests to report incidents.
• Cleaning service provided before each new booking begins.

Guest ID Reporting Obligations

All landlords must report guest details to the police using the HUELL@ system within 24 hours of arrival. To do this, you must apply for authorisation in advance at your local police station. Once authorised, you are responsible for collecting each guest’s ID (such as passport or NIE), recording it, and uploading the data through the secure portal. Failure to comply may result in fines or a temporary rental suspension.

Do I Need Insurance?

While not mandatory by law, it is strongly recommended that you take out civil liability insurance to protect yourself against property damage or guest injuries. Some platforms may even require proof of insurance. Additionally, standard building or contents insurance may not cover short-term lets unless you inform your insurer.

Accessibility Declarations

If your holiday rental property is accessible for people with reduced mobility, it is a good idea to include this information when registering and in your advertisements. Clear declarations of accessible features — such as step-free entrances, elevator access, or wide doorways — help avoid disputes and improve visibility on many booking platforms.

What If I Own Multiple Properties?

If you own three or more properties in the same building or residential complex, you may not register them as individual tourist rentals. Instead, they must be registered as a single business under the category of Apartamentos Turísticos. This is a separate application process with additional requirements.

Do I Need to Maintain the Property Year-Round?

Yes. Registration is not a one-time box to tick — it comes with an ongoing responsibility to keep the property compliant. This means maintaining cleanliness, repairing any broken equipment, updating guest materials, and ensuring that safety standards and legal requirements are continuously met.

Is There a Tourist Tax in Andalusia?

As of April 2025, Andalusia does not charge a tourist tax. However, discussions are ongoing about introducing one, as seen in other regions like Catalonia and the Balearic Islands. Property owners should monitor updates from the Junta de Andalucía, as the law could change in the coming year.

How to Legally Register Your Property

1. Online Registration: You can register quickly using your digital certificate via the official Andalusian Tourism Portal. This is the recommended method for faster processing.

2. In Person Registration: Alternatively, download the form called Declaración Responsable and submit it to your nearest Delegación Territorial de Turismo.

What Are the Fines for Not Registering?

Failure to register your property can lead to serious consequences. Infringements are categorised as minor, serious, or very serious, with fines ranging from €2,001 up to €150,000. Authorities use cross-checks with online platforms, utility bills, and tax declarations to find unregistered properties. Ignoring the rules risks heavy penalties, forced closure of the property, and even tax investigations.

What Are the Costs of Registering?

Good news — there is no fee to register your property with the Tourism Registry. Registration itself is completely free. However, you may incur indirect costs if you need to obtain or update documentation like your Occupancy Licence.

Will My Property Be Inspected?

Yes. After registering, your property may be subject to inspections without notice. Inspectors check that your property meets the minimum standards listed earlier. You should keep copies of all documentation on-site and ensure all guest facilities are in good working order.

Final Tips for Hosts

Always include your VFT number in all rental listings and advertisements. Register your rental income with Hacienda to avoid tax penalties. Remember that you must also report guest details to the Spanish police via the HUELL@ system, which requires prior authorisation. Maintaining a legally compliant rental not only protects you from fines but also builds trust with guests and improves your chances of receiving positive reviews.