As of December 2, 2023, Spain will begin implementing a new law that mandates hotel owners and car rental companies to collect and submit extensive personal information of their guests to the government. This legislation applies not only to hotels but also includes rental properties and campsites. Officially dubbed Royal Decree 933/2021, the law was initially scheduled to come into effect on October 1 but was postponed to allow the tourism industry additional time for preparation. The data to be reported includes sensitive information such as passport numbers, home addresses, payment methods for individuals aged 14 and older, and other identifying details.
With Spain being one of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations, attracting over 82 million visitors this year alone—which includes approximately 17 million from the UK—the introduction of these new regulations has raised significant concerns among travelers and industry stakeholders alike. Many in the tourism sector fear that the added bureaucratic requirements could lead to considerable delays at check-in points. Industry representatives, notably the Confederation of Spanish Hoteliers and Tourist Accommodation (CEHAT), have expressed anxiety over the potential adverse effects this law could impose on their operations. They are currently contemplating legal actions against the government to challenge the enforced regulations.
The Ministry of the Interior, which will oversee the data submissions, has justified this move as a necessary step to bolster national security. The ministry contends that the collection of data is vital to safeguard against threats such as terrorism and organized crime. They assert that having detailed records on the whereabouts and activities of visitors will enhance their ability to protect citizens effectively. In an official statement, the Ministry emphasized the regulations aim to serve the “general interest for the security of citizens.”
However, critics argue that the extensive data collection process could complicate the already intricate administrative duties of hotels and other accommodation providers, ultimately detracting from the guests’ experiences. CEHAT cautioned that the regulations are not only complex but may jeopardize the viability of the hospitality sector. The organization highlighted how both international tourists and Spanish residents may face cumbersome procedures that might overshadow what should be an enjoyable accommodation experience.
Operationally, hospitality businesses must be registered with the Ministry of the Interior and will be required to submit collected data on a daily basis. Non-compliance could result in hefty fines ranging from €100 to €30,000 (£80 – £25,000), adding pressure to the already impacted sector. Airbnb has also taken steps to align with these new protocols, instructing property owners using its platform to enroll with the Spanish government and comply with the data collection guidelines.
Industry expert Simon Calder addressed concerns by indicating that the government aims to monitor the movements and activities of individuals in response to the potential threat of organized crime. He speculated that while the new regulations might not significantly change booking patterns in the off-peak season, they would likely create longer wait times during check-in as guests now have to navigate additional paperwork.
Travel blogger Penelope Bielckus echoed these sentiments, stating that the new requirements might impede the relaxation and enjoyment that holidaymakers seek. Although many aspects of the required data reflect information traditionally collected during the booking process, the enforced nature of this new law could introduce slowdowns when processing guest arrivals.
In conclusion, as Spain moves forward with these enhanced data collection regulations, the impact on both tourists and the hospitality industry remains to be seen. With automated systems anticipated for data collection by many businesses, there is hope that efficiencies will mitigate some of the projected delays. However, travelers planning trips in the coming months will need to be prepared for increased administrative hurdles upon their arrival in this bustling European destination.
