New Vacation Rental Regulations in the Canary Islands - FAQ

As short-term rental activity continues to grow, many regions are introducing new regulations to ensure hosting is safe, responsible, and community-friendly. The Canary Islands has recently developed new vacation rental regulations that property owners should understand. Below, you'll find essential information and answers to the most common questions about these new requirements.

1. When will the new law come into effect?

There is no exact date yet. The law is expected to be published between April and May 2025, at which point the adaptation period for hosts will be defined. This timeline gives property owners a window to prepare for the regulatory changes ahead.

2. Is there a draft of the law available for consultation?

Yes, a current draft of the new vacation rental regulations is available for consultation. You can review the draft to understand the proposed requirements and how they may affect your property. Reviewing the draft early can help you prepare for compliance once the law officially takes effect.

3. Is it mandatory to obtain the license right now?

Not yet. There are currently no penalties for not having a vacation rental license, and you cannot be reported for not holding one at this time. However, once the law comes into effect, the license will be mandatory in order to continue operating your vacation rental. We recommend beginning the licensing process now to avoid delays when the requirement becomes enforceable.

4. Is a Vacation Rental (VV) license required for guest registration?

No, a VV licence is not required for guest registration. Guest registration and vacation rental licensing are separate processes. However, both will be important requirements to manage as the new regulations take effect.

5. Which municipalities have longer processing times for license applications?

Some municipalities in the Canary Islands experience longer processing times for vacation rental license applications due to high application volumes and limited administrative capacity. If your property is located in any of these areas, plan accordingly:

• Lanzarote: Playa Blanca, Teguise
• Tenerife: Arona (approximately one month), Güímar, Candelaria, El Rosario, Garachico, Puerto de la Cruz
• Gran Canaria: Agaete, Agüimes
• La Palma: The entire island has paused new VV applications, as the Cabildo (the body responsible for these permits) is currently not responding to requests

If your municipality is on this list, consider submitting your application as soon as possible to avoid extended waiting periods.

6. When will guest registration in SES and the One-Stop Window be mandatory?

Guest registration in SES is already mandatory for vacation rental operators in the Canary Islands. The Ventanilla Única (One-Stop Window) is confirmed to become mandatory in July. This centralized system streamlines administrative processes for vacation rental operators and ensures compliance with registration requirements.

7. How is the responsible declaration for the Vacation Rental (VV) license submitted?

The responsible declaration for your vacation rental license is submitted online through the Government of the Canary Islands website. A digital certificate is required to complete the submission. If you are unable to complete the process yourself, your advisor or representative can handle it on your behalf.

The submission process is free of charge. Once you submit the responsible declaration, the competent authority—either your local town hall or the Cabildo, depending on your municipality—will review your case and respond. When the process is complete, you will receive a document by email containing your signature number, confirming your license application status.