Spain hits Airbnb. Tourists will pay more for short-term accommodation

Spain, 1 of the most popular vacation destinations by Poles, prepares major changes in short-term tourist rental legislation. Draft fresh law provides VAT introduction of 21% for services like Airbnb. Experts inform – this can lead to a sharp increase in the price of accommodation and importantly hit tourists.

The housing crisis pushes the government to act

The government of Pedro Sánchez struggles with increasing social discontent. In large cities, especially in Madrid, Barcelona and in regions specified as Canary Islands and Balearic Islands, lack of housing for local residents. Data from Report of the Bank of Spain indicate that About 500 000 dwellings are missing.

In addition, more than half of available properties on islands has been converted to tourist purposes or belongs to foreigners. It generates immense social tensions. Locals are incapable to find flats for long-term rental, as most resources go to Airbnb platforms where earnings are repeatedly higher.

Airbnb under the bar – 5800 offers withdrawn

But it's not just plans. The first actions have already been implemented. Madrid ultimate Court has late issued a decision that cancelled as many as 5800 short-term accommodation offers In the capital. Reason? Non-compliance with local government and deficiency of regulation to guarantee a balance between tourism and the social interest.

This decision, although local, is signal of a wider trendThat could spill across the country. The central government has taken action that can change the rules of the game throughout the tourism industry.

VAT will hit tourists

So far short-term rental services – unlike hotels – were not subject to VAT. In this way Airbnb platforms frequently offered much cheaper accommodation, which was 1 of the main competitive advantages of conventional hotel facilities.

Planned changes are meant to change that. Introduction 21% VAT rate for specified services means that costs for renters will increaseAnd that's very likely. This will translate into an increase in prices for customers. For families planning a vacation this could mean respective 100 euros more for a week's stay.

An uncertain future – political divisions

We don't know yet. when and whether changes will come into force. The bill must pass through Parliament, where it will meet with different opinions. Spanish politicians are divided on this issue – any are afraid about the negative impact on tourism, which is an crucial pillar of the country's economy.

However, supporters of the bill argue that time to end preferential treatment of the short-term rental sectorwhich, in their view, contributes to the deepening of the housing crisis and social inequality.

What does this mean for tourists from Poland?

For Poles who are eager to visit Spain, this may mean need to change vacation plans or more. So far, many travelers have chosen Airbnb due to lower prices, flexibility and local nature of stay. If fresh regulations come into force, This advantage can be completely offset.

It is worth following developments, especially if we are planning a vacation in Spain in 2025. Although the bill has not yet been passed, changes can come rapidly – especially in the face of expanding social force and subsequent court sentences.