Spain Cracks Down on Airbnb: 65,000 Listings Removed Over Housing Violations
Spain has ordered Airbnb to remove 65,000 holiday rental listings due to violations of housing regulations, aiming to address rising rents and housing shortages.
SpainAirbnbHousing RegulationsTourismHousing CrisisReal Estate NewsMay 19, 2025
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Spain removing Airbnb listings?
Spain is removing Airbnb listings due to violations of housing regulations, such as lacking mandatory license numbers and failing to clarify the property owner's status.
How many listings are being removed?
Spain has ordered Airbnb to remove 65,000 holiday rental listings from its platform.
What is the main concern in Spain regarding short-term rentals?
The main concern is that short-term rentals are contributing to rising rents and a shortage of long-term housing, affecting local residents.
What is Airbnb's response to the order?
Airbnb plans to implement the order but also intends to challenge it, arguing that the ministry lacks jurisdiction and has not provided sufficient evidence of non-compliance.
Are other European countries taking similar actions?
Yes, countries like Croatia and Italy have also introduced measures to control the growth of short-term holiday rentals, similar to Spain's actions.
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