As winter temperatures drop across the UK, many are planning holidays to Spain, the top destination for British travelers. However, starting Monday, December 2, visitors to Spain will face new legal requirements to share detailed personal information when checking into accommodations or renting vehicles.
The new law, introduced by Spain’s State Secretariat for Security, aims to enhance public safety by collecting extensive personal data from tourists. Here’s everything you need to know about the changes.
Why Are These Changes Being Introduced?
Spanish authorities have cited concerns over transnational crime and terrorism, emphasizing the need for better tracking of foreign visitors. The law aims to improve public safety by ensuring authorities can identify and monitor individuals staying in hotels, Airbnb accommodations, and other lodging facilities.
What Information Will Be Collected?
For tourists aged 14 and above, accommodations will require the following details:
- Full name
- Gender
- Nationality
- Passport number
- Date of birth
- Home address
- Landline and mobile phone numbers
- Email address
Travelers with children under 14 must also specify their relationship to the minors.
How Will the Information Be Collected?
In many cases, check-in processes will involve providing information manually, either through forms or staff inputting details into computer systems. For online bookings, some data may be collected during reservations, but intermediaries like Booking.com or Airbnb may not automatically share all required details due to privacy regulations.
Car rental companies will also require the same information for all drivers.
Will Financial Information Be Shared?
There’s no evidence suggesting tourists will need to disclose their bank balances. However, the method of payment—such as credit card or bank transfer—will be shared with authorities. For travelers who pay via bank transfer, account details (but not balances) will be included.
What If I Don’t Provide Accurate Information?
Tourists themselves won’t face penalties for non-compliance, but accommodation providers can be fined for failing to collect the required data. Refusal to cooperate with the process may result in being denied check-in.
Privacy Concerns and Data Security
While concerns about data breaches are valid, most accommodations are expected to outsource data management to specialized companies, reducing risks of improper handling. Providers must retain data for three years, per the law.
Additional Considerations for British Travelers
Following Brexit, UK citizens are classified as third-country nationals, subjecting them to stricter travel rules. For example:
- Travelers to Spain are theoretically required to show proof of access to at least £850 for a nine-day stay or over £5,000 for a two-week holiday for a family of four. However, this rule is rarely enforced.
Airlines and Consumer Rights
Budget airlines have come under scrutiny from Spanish authorities for unclear pricing practices. Spain’s consumer rights ministry has fined airlines for:
- Charging extra for larger cabin baggage
- Requiring additional fees for children to sit with parents
- Insisting on card payments for in-flight purchases
