Real Decreto 933/2021: Guest Registration in Spain

Spain's Real Decreto 933/2021 is a regulatory framework designed to enhance security and prevent criminal activities within the vacation rental sector. As a host with properties in Spain, understanding this law and your compliance obligations is essential. This guide explains what you need to know and how Holidu simplifies the registration process.

Understanding Real Decreto 933/2021

Real Decreto 933/2021 requires hosts and intermediary platforms like Holidu to collect and report detailed guest and booking information to the Spanish Ministry of the Interior. The regulation aims to strengthen security by enabling authorities to monitor accommodation usage more effectively, contributing to increased safety for residents and visitors.

When Did the Law Come Into Force?

The regulation came into effect on January 2, 2023, with a transition period that lasted until October 1, 2024. Since October 2024, non-compliance can result in fines:

• Minor infractions: €100 to €600
• Serious infractions: €601 to €30,000
• Very serious infractions: €30,001 to €200,000

How Real Decreto 933/2021 Affects You as a Host

If you operate properties in Spain through Holidu, you must ensure that guest and booking information is reported to the Spanish authorities within 24 hours after each check-in. This applies regardless of your residency status or nationality—the law covers all properties located in Spain.

What Information Must You Report?

You are required to collect and submit the following mandatory guest information:

• Full names of all guests
• Date of birth
• Residency address
• Contact details (phone number or email)
• ID type and number (for adults)
• Spanish ID number (NIF or NIE) if applicable
• Relationship to minors (when applicable)

Holidu automatically collects transaction and property data, but you must gather guest information through our online check-in feature. Guests receive an email with a check-in form where they provide these details securely.

Where Does the Data Go?

Data is submitted to the SES Hospedajes platform managed by the Spanish Ministry of the Interior. If your property is located in Catalonia or the Basque Country, you may report to Mossos d'Esquadra or Ertzaintza respectively, depending on regional requirements.

How Holidu Helps: The Online Check-In Feature

Holidu simplifies compliance with Real Decreto 933/2021 through our online check-in feature, which automates guest data collection and reporting. Here's how it works:

Step-by-Step: Setting Up Online Check-In

1. Register on the SES Hospedajes platform by visiting the official Spanish Ministry of the Interior website at https://sede.mir.gob.es
2. Navigate to "Hospedajes y alquiler de vehículos" and access the register for accommodation establishments
3. During registration, ensure you select "Send communications via webservice" to enable automated reporting
4. Return to your Holidu account and activate the Guest Online Check-in feature
5. Select the appropriate authority: SES Hospedajes, Mossos d'Esquadra, or Ertzaintza
6. Enter your login credentials from the SES Hospedajes platform or your regional authority

How Holidu Automates the Process

Once you activate online check-in, Holidu handles the rest. When a booking becomes non-refundable, Holidu sends a check-in form to your guests via email. Guests complete the form with their personal information. Holidu then securely transmits this data along with booking details to the Spanish authorities by 11:00 PM on the check-in day.

If a non-refundable booking is later cancelled, Holidu automatically withdraws the previously reported information from the SES Hospedajes platform.

Important Reminders

• Verify that all guest information is complete and accurate before guests check in
• If any information is missing, collect it directly from guests upon arrival
• Confirm you have checked the "Send communications via webservice" box on SES Hospedajes
• Ensure your Holidu account credentials are correct and up to date

For detailed information on using Holidu's check-in feature, visit our Guest Check-In Feature FAQ.

Key Facts About Compliance

After October 1, 2024, compliance is mandatory. Incomplete or late submissions may result in fines. To avoid infractions:

• Activate the online check-in feature in your Holidu account
• Ensure guests provide all required information
• Verify data accuracy before submission
• Keep records of all reported bookings

Official Resources

For comprehensive legal information about Real Decreto 933/2021, consult these official government sources:

• Official BOE Publication of Royal Decree 933/2021
• Official BOE Publication BOE-A-2015-3442, Article 39

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this regulation apply to all Spanish properties?

Yes. Real Decreto 933/2021 applies to all vacation rental properties located in Spain, regardless of the host's nationality or residence.

What happens if I don't comply?

Non-compliance can result in fines ranging from €100 to €200,000, depending on the severity of the infraction. After October 1, 2024, there is no grace period.

Can I verify which bookings Holidu has reported?

While there is no direct report list available in your Holidu account, you can cross-reference confirmed, non-refundable bookings with what you know Holidu has submitted. You may also log into SES Hospedajes to view submitted records.

What if a guest refuses to provide required information?

You are legally obligated to collect this information before check-in. If a guest refuses, you may need to decline the booking or contact Holidu support for guidance.

Is Holidu responsible for reporting, or am I?

Holidu facilitates the collection and automated reporting of guest data to the Spanish authorities. However, as the property owner, you remain responsible for ensuring all required information is complete and accurate.

How long does data collection take?

Guests typically receive and complete the check-in form within a few hours of booking confirmation. Holidu submits the data to authorities by 11:00 PM on the check-in day.

Do I need to maintain records of reported data?

Yes. It is good practice to keep records of guest information and confirmation that data has been submitted, should authorities request verification.

Thank you for being a valued Holidu host. By following these guidelines, you ensure compliance with Spanish regulations and contribute to a safer rental environment for all guests and residents.