Portuguese tourists and others who wish to visit Spain in the future, will have to pay attention to a set of new rules for 2025 implemented by Spanish authorites.
Spain continues to be one of the most sought-after destinations for tourists from all over the world, attracted by its warm climate, stunning beaches and rich gastronomy. In 2024, the country welcomed a record 94 million visitors, an increase of 10% compared to the previous year, with a significant economic impact, representing around 13% of the national GDP.
However, the growing number of tourists has brought challenges, prompting Spanish authorities to implement new rules in 2025. These measures aim to balance the well-being of local residents with the impact of tourism, especially after protests against mass tourism that have been heard in several Spanish cities over the past year.
For those planning to visit Spain, it is essential to be aware of these new regulations, which cover everything from entry into the country to behaviour on the streets and beaches, with fines that can reach high amounts.
Stricter entry rules
Entry requirements for tourists to Spain vary depending on their country of origin and length of stay. For EU citizens, entry remains straightforward, with a national ID card or passport, with no time limit on their stay. However, for tourists from non-EU countries, such as the UK, US or Canada, the rules have become stricter.
Now, in addition to a passport valid for at least three months after the departure date, it will be mandatory to present travel insurance, proof of accommodation and a return ticket. Proof of sufficient financial means for the stay may also be required. From mid-2025, the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) will come into force, which will cost 7 euros and will be valid for three years.
Accommodation with more restrictive rules
The Spanish government has implemented new measures for short-term accommodation, particularly the famous Airbnb. Since January 2025, any owner who wishes to rent out their home to tourists must be registered in a national database and obtain a license.
In addition, accommodation providers are required to collect personal information from guests, including bank details. For tourists, this means that accommodation options may decrease, with prices likely to increase in the coming years.
Airbnb and local limitations
Airbnbs are not banned across Spain, but some cities have imposed strict restrictions. In Barcelona, the city council decided not to renew the licenses for the 10,000 apartments currently dedicated to this type of rental, planning to eliminate all short-term accommodation by 2028. In Malaga, 43 neighborhoods have reached the threshold of 8% of housing stock dedicated to tourist rentals, and new licenses in these locations are prohibited.
Higher tourist taxes
Another important change concerns tourist taxes, which have increased significantly in some regions. In Barcelona, the tax for luxury hotels has doubled, from €3.50 to €7 per night. Cruise ship passengers will pay €6, even if they only stay for one day.
In the Balearic Islands, the overnight tax has risen from €4 to €6 per person, while Santiago de Compostela and Toledo have also introduced new rates of between €1 and €2.50 per night. The Canary Islands are considering adopting a similar measure.
Alcoholic beverages and street behaviour
Tourist behaviour in Spain will also be subject to stricter controls. In Barcelona, pub crawls will be banned in some neighbourhoods from June, and in the Balearic Islands, alcohol consumption in public spaces has been restricted. Shops in these areas are not allowed to sell alcoholic drinks between 9:30pm and 8am, and fines for breaching these rules range from €750 to €3,000.
Driving may not be an option
Renting a car has also become more complicated. Tourists now have to provide detailed personal information to rental companies, and in some towns, such as Soller in Mallorca, tourists are banned from driving in the city centre.
Rules on the beaches
On beaches, authorities have tightened controls on behaviour deemed inappropriate. In Torrox, on the Costa del Sol, tents and similar structures are banned, as they block the view of lifeguards and make it difficult for emergency teams to access them. Smoking has also become more prohibited. In Barcelona, smoking is already banned on all beaches, and more than 100 beaches across Spain have adopted similar measures.
Among the new measures, some are quite curious. For example, urinating in the sea can result in a fine of up to 750 euros. The city of Malaga was the latest 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 get informed before you travel. Tourist taxes are charged directly by accommodations, so visitors don't need to worry about declaring them. Maintaining respectful behaviour and following local rules is usually enough to avoid problems. However, it is worth checking with your hotel or travel agent, to see if there are any specific regulations in place at your destination.
With these changes, Spain is seeking to better manage the flow of tourists, ensuring that the experience of those who visit the country continues to be positive, without compromising the quality of life of local residents. For tourists, the most important thing is to plan ahead, respect the rules and enjoy the best the country has to offer.
Source https://postal.pt/
