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 implemented new vacation rental regulations that all property owners need to understand. Below, you'll find essential information and answers to frequently asked questions to help you stay prepared for these changes.

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. Once published, property owners will have a specific timeframe to comply with the new requirements. It's important to monitor official announcements from the Canary Islands government to stay informed about the exact implementation date and any transition periods that may be granted.

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

Yes, a draft of the law is currently available for public review. You can access the current draft to understand the proposed regulations in detail and see how they may affect your vacation rental property. Reviewing the draft now will help you prepare for compliance once the law comes into effect. The draft provides comprehensive details about licensing requirements, guest registration procedures, and other regulatory obligations.

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

Not yet. Currently, there are no penalties for not having a Vacation Rental (VV) license, and you cannot be reported for not holding one. However, once the law comes into effect, the license will be mandatory to continue operating your vacation rental property. We recommend obtaining your license as soon as possible after the law is published to avoid any compliance issues. Planning ahead will give you time to navigate the application process and meet all requirements before the enforcement deadline.

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. You can register guests without holding a VV license. However, once the new regulations come into effect, holding the required license will be essential for legally operating your vacation rental property. Guest registration requirements may be implemented independently of licensing requirements, so stay informed about both processes.

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 one of these areas, expect a longer wait for your license approval. Here are the municipalities with known delays:

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

If your property is in one of these locations, consider starting your application process early to account for potential delays.

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

Guest registration in SES (the tourism registry system) is already mandatory. Property owners must register guests as required by current regulations. The Ventanilla Única (One-Stop Window), which provides a centralized platform for managing regulatory compliance, is confirmed to be mandatory starting in July. This unified system will streamline the process of managing both guest registration and vacation rental licensing requirements. Mark this date on your calendar and ensure you are prepared to use the new system when it launches.

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

The responsible declaration for the VV 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 the submission on your behalf, provided they have the proper authorization.

The submission process is free of charge. Once you submit your responsible declaration, the competent authority—either the local town hall or the Cabildo, depending on your municipality—will review your case and respond accordingly. When the process is complete, you will receive a document by email containing your signature number, which serves as proof of your application and compliance with the new regulations.