Spain remains one of the most sought after destinations by tourists from around the world, attracted to hot weather, stunning beaches and rich gastronomy. In 2024, the country received a record of 94 million visitors, an increase of 10% over the previous year, with a significant economic impact, representing about 13% of national GDP.
However, the growing number of tourists brought challenges, leading Spanish authorities to implement new rules by 2025. These measures seek to balance the well-being of local residents with the impact of tourism, especially after protests against mass tourism, which were heard in several Spanish cities last year.
For those who plan to visit Spain, it is essential to know these new regulations, which range from entering the country to behavior on the streets and beaches, with fines that can reach high values.
Tighter entry rules
The entry requirements of tourists in Spain vary depending on the country of origin and the duration of the stay. For citizens of the European Union, the entrance remains simple, just a citizen card or passport, with no time limit for permanence, refers to. However, for tourists from countries outside the EU-such as the United Kingdom, the United States or Canada-the rules have become more rigorous.
Now, in addition to the passport valid for at least three months after the departure date, it will be mandatory to present travel insurance, proof of accommodation and return ticket. It can also be required to demonstrate sufficient financial means for the stay. From mid -2025, the European Travel Information and Authorization System (Ethias) will be in force, which will cost 7 euros and will be valid for three years.
Accommodation with more restrictive rules
The Spanish government implemented new measures for short -lived housing, namely the famous Airbnb. Since January 2025, any owner who wants to lease his home to tourists have to be registered with a national database and obtain a license.
In addition, accommodation providers have to collect guest personal information, including bank data. For tourists, this means that accommodation options may decrease, with the possibility of prices increasing in the coming years.
Airbnb and Local Limitations
Airbnbs are not prohibited throughout Spain, but certain cities have imposed rigorous restrictions. In Barcelona, the municipality decided not to renew licenses for the 10,000 apartments currently dedicated to this type of lease, planning to eliminate all short -lived accommodation by 2028. In Malaga, 43 neighborhoods reached 8% of the housing park dedicated to tourism, and new licenses in these places are prohibited.
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Higher tourist rates
Another important change concerns tourist rates, which increased significantly in some regions. In Barcelona, the rate for luxury hotels doubled from 3.50 euros to 7 euros per night. Cruise passengers will pay 6 euros, even if they are only one day.
On the whaares islands, the sleep rate rose from 4 to 6 euros per person, while Santiago de Compostela and Toledo also introduced new rates between 1 and 2.50 euros per night. The Canary Islands are considering adopting a similar measure.
Alcoholic beverages and behavior on the streets
The behavior of tourists in Spain will also be the target of greater control. In Barcelona, from June, the “Pub Crawls” are prohibited in some neighborhoods, and in whaares, the consumption of alcohol on the public road was restricted. Stores in these zones cannot sell alcohol between 9:30 pm and 8:00 am, and fines for non -compliance with these rules range from 750 to 3,000 euros.
Driving may not be an option
Renting a car also became more complicated. Tourists now have to provide detailed personal information to rental companies and, in some cities, such as Soller, in Majorca, tourists are forbidden to drive in the city center.
Rules on the beaches
On the beaches, the authorities tightened control over behaviors considered inappropriate. In Torrox, Costa del Sol, tents and similar structures are prohibited that block the vision of the saving swimmers and make it difficult to access emergency teams. Smoking also became more difficult. In Barcelona, smoking is already prohibited on all beaches, and more than 100 beaches throughout Spain have adopted similar measures.
Among the new measures, some are quite curious. For example, urinating at sea may result in a fine that can reach 750 euros. The city of Malaga was the last to adopt this rule, joining Vigo in the north of the country.
How to avoid problems
For tourists, the best way to avoid fines is to find out well before traveling. Tour rates are charged directly by the accommodation, so the visitor does not need to worry about his statement. Maintaining respective behavior and complying with local rules is usually sufficient to avoid problems. However, it is worth confirming with your hotel or travel agent if there are specific regulations at your destination.
With these changes, Spain seeks to better manage the flow of tourists, ensuring that the experience of those visiting the country remains positive, without compromising the quality of life of local inhabitants. For tourists, the most important thing is to plan in advance, to respect the rules and enjoy what the country has the best to offer.
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