Spain’s new travel rules, which now require British tourists to provide detailed personal information when booking accommodations or car rentals, have been branded “invasive” and could lead to Brits holidaying elsewhere.
The controversial regulations dubbed the “Big Brother” law, came into effect on December 2.
They require hotels, guest houses, and rental companies to collect sensitive details such as tourists’ phone numbers, home addresses, bank account information, and even the nature of their relationship with their travel companions.
Accommodation providers who fail to comply could face fines, but some businesses have vowed to check in tourists regardless of whether they meet the new requirements.
Brenda Beltran, a travel writer and Content Manager at Holafly, told the Express: “The new rules in Spain are causing a lot of frustration, especially among British tourists.
“Being asked to provide detailed personal information – like your bank account, phone number, home address, and even the nature of your relationship with someone you’re travelling with – feels like a big invasion of privacy. It’s not surprising that people are upset.”
However, Beltran added that while the new regulations might initially deter some visitors, Spain’s appeal is unlikely to wane entirely.
She said: “For years, Spain has been one of the most popular destinations for British travellers, and changes like this can make people feel unwelcome.
“In the short term, this might make people hesitate or look elsewhere, like Portugal, Italy, or Greece. These countries have similar attractions – great weather, beaches, and culture – but without the same requirements.
“Still, Spain is hard to replace. For many, the experience of going there will outweigh the hassle of dealing with the new rules.”
Last year, 17.8 million British tourists visited Spain, making the UK one of the country’s largest tourism markets.
However, with privacy concerns and confusion over implementation, the new measures could cause some tourists to go elsewhere.
Nonetheless, travel expert and broadcaster Rob Staines defended Spain’s decision.
He told The Express: “Every country has a right to know exactly who is entering and exiting their borders to increase safety and security for its citizens and those who visit.
“The last time I stayed in a Spanish Airbnb, the owner had no idea who I was, so it’s understandable the government would like to know in the interests of national security.
“Will it result in extra queues and longer waiting times to check in? Initially maybe, but as accommodation providers and car hire companies become accustomed to the new rules, like everything, it will eventually become a more streamlined part of the process.”
Staines added that Spain is not unique in introducing measures to strengthen national security and will remain a top destination for holidaymakers.
For those still planning to visit Spain, Beltran recommended being proactive.
She said: “The best thing to do is to get prepared. Before you book, make sure you know exactly what information is required.
“If something feels unclear or too personal, contact the hotel, apartment, or car rental company to ask why it’s needed and how it will be used.”
“People get used to changes, even if they don’t like them. It’s about deciding if Spain is worth the extra effort for you. For many, it will be.”
