New tourist registration rules have come into effect in Spain, sparking widespread criticism from the tourism industry.
Amendments to Real Decreto 933/2021 require hotels and other accommodation providers to collect up to 18 different pieces of personal information from guests, including passport details, contact information, payment details and information about companions.
However, due to technical difficulties, Spain’s Ministry of the Interior has postponed the implementation of the rules for two months. Tourism organizations, including Cehat, which represents 16,000 businesses, have criticized the new requirements for imposing excessive administrative burdens and legal risks, particularly their conflict with EU data protection laws.
Industry representatives warn that the new rules could significantly complicate the operations of businesses and deter tourists, negatively impacting Spain’s appeal as a tourist destination.
