If you have a property on the Costa del Sol, in the center of Seville, or a charming spot in the Sierra de Aracena and want to make it profitable as tourist accommodation, you need to stay up to date, we explain how to obtain a vacation rental license in Andalusia. The legal landscape in Andalusia has evolved significantly with Decree 31/2024 and the new municipal restrictions implemented this 2026.
In this article, we explain the steps, requirements, and, most importantly, how to comply with the legal registration of your guests.
🏡What is a Tourist Use Housing (VUT)?
In Andalusia, Tourist Use Housing is considered to be any property located on residential land that is offered, for a price, for accommodation services habitually and for tourist purposes.
Key note: If the rental period is longer than two months to the same person, it is no longer considered a VUT, but a seasonal lease under the LAU.
📑Essential requirements to obtain the vacation rental license in Andalusia
For the Junta de Andalucía to grant you the registration code (the famous number VFT), your home must meet minimum quality and habitability standards:
- Surface and capacity: Minimum 25 m² of built surface. You must guarantee at least 14 m² per spot.
- Air conditioning: Rooms and lounges must have cooling (by fixed or portable units) and heating.
- Equipment: First aid kit, official complaint forms, and a 24-hour guest service number.
- Bathrooms: If the dwelling has more than 5 places, it must have at least 2 bathrooms; if it exceeds 8 places, 3 bathrooms.
- Energy Certificate: Minimum rating F for buildings prior to 2007 and D for later ones.
🏤The role of City Councils and Homeowners’ Associations
This 2026, municipal autonomy is total. Before starting the procedure, check two things:
- Urban Planning Restrictions: Many town halls (such as Málaga, Cádiz, or Sevilla) have limited the number of licenses in saturated areas. You will need an urban compatibility report.
- Community of Owners: From 2024, communities can prohibit tourist activity if approved by 3/5 parts of the owners. If the statutes already prohibit it, you will not be able to obtain the license.
Step by step: How to register your home
The process is 100% online through the Digital Single Window of the Junta de Andalucía.
- Responsible Declaration: You submit a form where you state that you meet all legal requirements.
- Obtaining the VFT code: Once submitted, you are automatically assigned or within a few days a registration number. Without this number, you cannot list on Airbnb, Booking, or VRBO.
- Registration with the Ministry of the Interior: Once you have your license, you must register on the SES.HOSPEDAJES platform.
The obligation of the Traveler Registry
Having the license is only the beginning. Citizen security regulations require all owners in Andalusia to:
- Identify each guest over 14 years old.
- Fill out the Traveler Entry Form.
- Send the data to the authorities (Ministry of the Interior) within a maximum period of 24 hours from arrival and reservation.
- Keep the traveler logbook for at least 3 years.
Pro Tip: Automate this process with the Traveler Registration tools and save yourself hours of manual management and avoid fines ranging from €601 to €30,000.
Conclusion
The vacation rental market in Andalusia is more professional than ever. Complying with regulations not only helps you avoid fines but also improves the reputation of your accommodation. Make sure your license is in order and, above all, do not neglect the safety and registration of your guests.
Do you need help managing your entry reports automatically? At Registro Parte Viajeros we help you comply with SES.HOSPEDAJES regulations quickly and easily. Would you like me to also help you draft a checklist for your first tourism inspection?
