Our guide on Register In Spain As A Traveler if you are planning to visit soon.
If you’re planning a trip to Spain, it’s essential to be aware of recent changes in traveler registration requirements that may affect your visit. As of December 2, 2024, Spain has implemented new regulations mandating the collection of additional personal information from tourists. These measures aim to enhance national security but have raised concerns among travelers and industry professionals alike.
This measure, established under Royal Decree 933/2021, aims to enhance national security by aiding in the fight against organized crime and terrorism.
Spain’s new traveler registration requirements reflect a broader effort to enhance national security. While these measures may introduce some challenges for tourists and the hospitality industry, being informed and prepared can help mitigate potential inconveniences. As the situation evolves, staying updated on any changes to these regulations will be crucial for future travelers.
By staying informed and prepared, travelers can ensure compliance with Spain’s new regulations and enjoy a seamless travel experience.
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What Are the New Requirements?
Under the Royal Decree 933/2021, all tourists aged 14 and above are now required to provide more extensive personal information when booking accommodations or renting vehicles in Spain. This applies to hotels, holiday rentals (including platforms like Airbnb), campsites, travel agencies, and car rental companies across mainland Spain and its islands.
Information Required from Travelers
When checking into accommodations such as hotels, vacation rentals, or campsites, travelers will need to provide:
Full Name
Nationality
Passport or ID Number
Date of Birth
Gender
Full Address
Email Address
Phone Number
Payment Details
For Minors: Relationship to accompanying adults
Similarly, car rental services will require detailed personal information from clients.
For car rentals, the required information may extend to over 60 data points, including driver’s license details and payment methods. All collected data is to be submitted to the Spanish Ministry of the Interior and stored digitally for three years.
Purpose of the Regulation
The primary objective of this decree is to enhance public safety by ensuring that law enforcement agencies have timely access to accurate information about individuals utilizing lodging and vehicle rental services. This measure addresses previous regulatory gaps, especially concerning new accommodation and vehicle rental modalities
The Spanish government cites national security as the primary reason for these new measures. By collecting detailed information about travelers, authorities aim to combat organized crime and terrorism more effectively. The data will help monitor who is entering and staying in the country, allowing for better tracking of suspicious activities.
Responsibilities and Compliance
The obligation to collect and submit this data falls on the service providers, not the travelers. However, travelers should be prepared to furnish the necessary information upon request. Non-compliance by businesses can result in fines ranging from €100 to €30,000, depending on the severity of the infraction.
Privacy Concerns and Industry Response
The hospitality and travel sectors have expressed concerns regarding the increased bureaucratic burden and potential privacy infringements. Critics argue that the extensive data collection may violate privacy rights and complicate the travel experience. Despite these objections, the Spanish government maintains that the measures are essential for national security.
Impact on Travelers
While these regulations primarily affect service providers, travelers may experience longer check-in times due to the additional data collection requirements. To facilitate a smoother process, it’s advisable to have all necessary personal information readily available when checking into accommodations or renting vehicles.
Longer Check-In Times: Hotels and rental agencies may require additional time to collect and process the required information, leading to potential delays during check-in.
Privacy Concerns: The extent of personal data being collected has raised concerns about privacy and data protection among tourists and industry professionals.
Potential for Increased Costs: The administrative burden on accommodation providers may lead to higher operational costs, which could be passed on to consumers in the form of increased prices.
Industry Response
The hospitality and tourism sectors have expressed significant concerns regarding the new regulations:
Administrative Burden: Industry groups argue that the requirements impose excessive administrative tasks on businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises that may lack the resources to comply efficiently.
Legal Challenges: Organizations such as the Spanish Confederation of Hotels and Tourist Accommodation (CEHAT) are considering legal action, claiming that the regulations may violate European Union data protection laws.
Additional Considerations
ETIAS Implementation: Starting in 2025, the European Union will introduce the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), requiring travelers from visa-exempt countries to apply online and pay a €7 fee prior to travel.
Data Security: Travelers concerned about the security of their personal information should inquire with service providers about data protection measures in place to safeguard their details.
What Is the EU Entry/Exit System (EES)?
What It Is: ETIAS is a visa waiver system, not a visa, but it requires travelers from visa-exempt countries (like the U.S.) to obtain authorization before entering the Schengen Area.
How It Works: Travelers will need to apply online for ETIAS authorization, which involves filling out an application, paying a fee, and providing some personal information and travel details. The application process should be relatively quick, typically taking only a few minutes.
Validity: Once approved, the ETIAS authorization will be valid for three years or until the traveler’s passport expires, whichever comes first.
Tips for Travelers to Spain
To ensure a smooth experience during your visit to Spain:
Prepare Your Information: Have all necessary personal details readily available when booking accommodations or renting vehicles.
Allow Extra Time: Anticipate potential delays during check-in and plan accordingly.
Stay Informed: Keep abreast of any updates or changes to the regulations by consulting official Spanish government sources or your accommodation provider.
Protect Your Data: Ensure that the establishments you deal with have proper data protection measures in place to safeguard your personal information.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.