Spain Cracks Down on Airbnb: 65,000 Listings Removed Over Housing Violations

Spain has ordered Airbnb to remove 65,000 holiday rental listings over license violations, escalating its crackdown on short-term rentals amid rising rents, housing shortages, and broader efforts to regulate the tourism sector.

Spain has ordered Airbnb to take down over 65,000 holiday rental listings from its platform, citing violations of housing regulations. On Monday, the Consumer Rights Ministry stated that most of the flagged listings lack the mandatory license number, while others fail to clarify whether the property owner is an individual or a corporation.

Consumer Rights Minister Pablo Bustinduy emphasized the need to restore control in the holiday rental sector, which he described as plagued by “illegality.” He declared, “No more excuses. Enough with protecting those who make a business out of the right to housing in our country.” Bustinduy confirmed that Madrid’s high court has backed the ministry's move to remove around 5,800 of the listings immediately.

Airbnb has announced plans to implement the order but also intends to challenge it. As reported by Reuters, a company spokesperson criticized the ministry’s actions, arguing that it lacks jurisdiction over short-term rentals and has failed to present sufficient evidence of non-compliance. The spokesperson also claimed that some of the listings in question are for non-touristic, seasonal use.

The Spanish government and regional and local authorities are increasing pressure on platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com as part of broader efforts to tackle the housing crisis. Locals across Spain blame the rise in short-term rentals for soaring rents and shrinking long-term housing availability.

Spain's housing issue has escalated since the collapse of a real estate bubble more than 15 years ago. Official figures show that as of November 2023, approximately 321,000 homes were registered as holiday rentals, a 15% increase since 2020. Authorities believe many more operate without licenses.

Wider European Context: Spain is not alone in its response. Countries like Croatia and Italy have also introduced measures to control the growth of short-term holiday rentals. Meanwhile, Barcelona has taken the most aggressive stance within Spain, announcing a full ban on tourist rentals by 2028.