If you are holidaying in Mallorca this Summer, here are the hotel check-in rules in Spain 2025 and what you need to know.
You might have seen the dramatic headlines in the press about hotel check-in rules and I have made plenty of videos about this on the Mallorca Under the Sun YouTube channel.
Reports of “chaotic” queues, “anti-tourist” policies, and having to provide endless personal information have left some travellers worried.
But don’t panic — the reality on the ground is far simpler and much less stressful than some stories suggest.
Here’s everything you need to know about hotel check-in rules in Spain for Summer 2025, explained clearly.
Table of Contents
What documents do you need to check into a hotel in Spain?
The new system is not that different from what many hotels have already been doing for years.
Under Spanish law, hotels, guesthouses, and even some private rentals must register guest information with the authorities.
This is mainly (apparently) for security reasons — the same way hotels do in many other European countries.
You do not need to hand over the reported 40 pieces of information. In fact, in most cases, when you are checking-in at your hotel or holiday accommodation, you’ll just be asked for:
- A copy of your passport (or ID card if you’re from the EU)
- Your home address
- A phone number
- An email address
- Your relationship to any children you’re travelling with
And that’s it!
There’s no requirement to give your bank account details, full family history, or anything that feels intrusive.
Hotels may still request a credit card for incidentals (like a deposit for breakages or unpaid charges), but this is a normal practice and not part of the government rules.
TOP TIP: Look out for an email sent by your hotel for pre-check-in. Fill out this information and this may save time when you arrive at your hotel.
The same applies to picking up rental cars – you will also need to provide this information. Again, look out for the email before you arrive.
Hotel Check-in Rules Spain: Traveller Experiences
Travellers who have already been to Spain this year are reporting that the check-in process has been quick and easy.
Here are some of the comments I have received on the Mallorca Under the Sun YouTube channel,
- Diane said: “We filled in our information on a tablet at the hotel — it took about 10 minutes, really straightforward.”
- Mike shared: “Just back from Nerja — no difference. They asked for name, address, phone, and email.”
- Wendy said: “Checked into a hotel in Torremolinos — only asked for email, phone number, and address. No hassle at all.”
- Kevin reported: “I go to Santa Ponsa every year. This time, it was exactly the same — just gave basic info. No issues.”
Even YouTuber The MacMaster, confirmed that while he was handed a form to fill in at his hotel, in some cases it wasn’t even collected properly.
Check out the video here.
So while the hotel check-in rules in Spain may seem daunting, you may be asked to fill out a form when you arrive, it’s usually nothing more than a few minutes’ paperwork before you can start enjoying your holiday.
Check on Rules: Private Rentals, Villas, and Airbnbs?
If you’re staying in a private holiday rental — like an Airbnb, a villa, or an apartment booked directly — you’ll still need to provide the same information.
Hosts of legally registered properties in Spain are required by law to collect guest information and register it with the police (just like hotels).
This usually means:
- Sending a copy of your passport or ID ahead of arrival, or
- Filling out a quick online form that the host sends you.
Many Airbnb hosts now ask for this after booking. Don’t be alarmed — it’s normal and helps them stay compliant with Spanish laws.
Tip: Always make sure you’re booking a registered property.
WARNING: If your host isn’t asking for any information at all, it could be a sign that the rental isn’t officially licensed — something that can lead to problems during your stay.
Hotel Check-in Rules Spain: Why Do Hotels (and Hosts) Need This Information?
The main reason is for this information, according to the Government in Spain, is for security.
Spain requires all accommodation providers to report guest details to the police within 24 hours of arrival.
It’s a system that’s been in place for while now, except now it’s obligatory.
And it’s similar to rules you’ll find in France, Italy, and other EU countries.
It’s designed to help authorities quickly trace individuals if needed — but for the vast majority of tourists, it’s just a formality.
Some travellers were concerned about giving their email addresses, worried it would lead to spam.
However, so far, there’s been no widespread problem with hotels misusing emails — they’re mostly used for confirmation or emergency contact.
Other Hotel Check-in Rules in Spain: Pay the Tourist Tax or Eco Tax
When you check into your hotel or registered accommodation, you’ll also need to pay the Eco Tax or Tourist Tax — known locally as the “Impuesto de Turismo Sostenible.”
- In the Balearic Islands (including Mallorca, Menorca, and Ibiza), this tax is around €3.30 per person per night for four-star and five-star hotels.
- It’s usually lower for apartments, hostels, or rural stays.
- Children under 16 are exempt.
You can usually pay the tourist tax when you check in, but in some cases it will be added to your bill and paid at check-out.
Always check your booking confirmation, as some platforms like TUI include it upfront, while others like Booking.com often don’t.
Find out more about the Tourist Tax in Mallorca here./how-much-is-eco-tax-in-mallorca/
Final Thoughts: No Need to Worry
While the headlines made it sound dramatic, the reality is that hotel and accommodation check-ins in Spain remain quick, easy, and hassle-free for the vast majority of travellers.
Yes, you’ll need to hand over a few details — but it’s no different to what many of us have already been doing for years.
Whether you’re checking into a hotel in Palma, a boutique guesthouse in Sóller, or a sunny villa near Alcúdia, the process is simple.
Just have your passport handy, know your home address, and be ready with your phone number and email.
Then it’s time to relax, enjoy the Spanish sunshine, and make the most of your holiday under the sun! 🌞