A new Spanish law mandating tourists to submit detailed personal information whenever they book accommodation or rent a vehicle will take effect from December 2, 2024. The new legislation aims at improving national security, but some travelers are decrying intrusion into privacy, calling it a “Big Brother” system.
Why Is Spain Starting This Law?
It’s mostly a matter of security, monitoring foreign visitors against serious crime and terrorism threats is the purpose of this law. According to the authorities, organized crimes and terrorism activities are usually international, for which they are given public safety importance.
Information Required from Tourists
Tourists aged 14 and older will have to provide the following specific information along with residing in hotels, Airbnb, or renting cars in Spain:
- Full name
- Gender
- Nationality
- Passport Number
- Date of Birth
- Home Address
- Landline and mobile phone numbers
- E-mail Address
For the under-14 child’s details, the parent or authorized person has to prove the relationship with the child. Although these errors may not be penalized against tourists, accommodations may incur charges for failing to manage data.
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What Must Businesses Do
The new rules require hotels, car rental companies, and travel operators to gather and process detailed and extensive information. For instance, accommodations must take more than 40 separate data pieces per booking, whereas car rental agencies may have to keep more than 60 data points. The new legislation applies all over the country, from the Balearic Islands to the Canary Islands. Noncompliance would cost the offenders fines as high as 30,000 euros.
The Implications for Travelers
The recent law on travel to Spain could lead to long check-in times at hotels and resorts. Many businesses have started adopting their procedures to comply, and tourists are advised to prepare the necessary documents early to avoid delays.
What will happen:
Waiting: Hotels and rental agencies may take longer for check-in.
Data verification: The information will be cross-referenced with national securities databases.
Privacy Issues: Tourists are encouraged to understand their rights concerning their data.
Frequently asked questions:
Will tourists be fined for wrong information?
No; fines for wrong information provided by tourists will not apply but businesses will be penalized for mishandling data.
Does this law cover every type of accommodation?
Of course, all kinds of lodging are included such as hotels, hostels, and vacation rentals like Airbnb.
What if I forget some information?
Before arriving, ensure that all the information is on hand to avoid delays.
Do children have to give private data?
Children below 14 years are exempt but the relationship must be made clear by the guardians.
How will this affect my privacy?
The Spanish government assures that data will be used for security purposes only, with strict observance of data protection laws.
Primarily the regulations by Spain will be targeted at improving security, although it may also result in longer customer checks. Travelers thus need to prepare all the required information for smooth processes. On the other hand, businesses will have to comply with stringent rules to avoid huge fines. Despite privacy concerns, the measures are aimed at creating a safer environment for everyone.