As short-term rental activity continues to grow, many regions are introducing new regulations to make sure hosting is safe, responsible, and community-friendly. At Holidu, our local team in Spain follows these regulatory changes closely so you don't have to. Below, you'll find answers to the most common questions about the new holiday rental regulations in the Canary Islands.

When will the new holiday rental law come into effect?

There is no exact date yet. The law is expected to be published between April and May 2025. Once it is published, the adaptation period for hosts will be defined. Holidu will keep you updated as soon as official details are confirmed.

Is there a draft of the new law available to read?

Yes. You can read the current draft of the law on the official Parliament of the Canary Islands website. Reviewing the draft early helps you understand what the changes may mean for your property and prepare in good time.

Read the current draft of the Canary Islands vacation rental law

Is it mandatory to obtain a vacation rental license right now?

Not yet. There are currently no penalties for not having a license, and no one can report you for not holding one. Once the law comes into effect, however, a license will be mandatory to keep operating. That is why it is a good idea to gather the key information now and manage your license application in good time.

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

No, a Vacation Rental (VV) license is not required for guest registration. Guest registration is a separate obligation, and it is already mandatory in the SES system.

Which municipalities have longer processing times for license applications?

Some municipalities take longer to process license applications because of high application volumes and limited administrative capacity. The affected areas are listed below.

• Lanzarote: Playa Blanca and Teguise.
• Tenerife: Arona (around one month), Güímar, Candelaria, El Rosario, Garachico, and Puerto de la Cruz.
• Gran Canaria: Agaete and 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.

When will guest registration in SES and the One-Stop Window (Ventanilla Única) become mandatory?

Guest registration in SES is already mandatory, so hosts should be registering their guests now. The One-Stop Window (Ventanilla Única) is confirmed to launch in July.

How do I submit the responsible declaration for a Vacation Rental (VV) license?

You submit the responsible declaration online through the Government of the Canary Islands website. A digital certificate is required to complete the process. If you cannot do it yourself, your advisor can submit it on your behalf. The process is free.

Once submitted, the competent authority reviews the case and responds. This is either the local town hall or the Cabildo, depending on your municipality. When the process is complete, you will receive a document by email containing your signature number.