New registration law raises privacy concerns among tourists

What does the new law require?

by Lorraine Williamson
tourist registration law

Tourists and travel agencies are voicing concerns over Spain’s new registration law for visitors, which requires extensive personal data collection. Since its implementation on 1 December 2024, the law has faced criticism for its potential impact on privacy and the tourism industry, prompting some travellers to reconsider Spain as a holiday destination.

Under the new regulations, hotels, travel agencies, car hire firms, and campsites must collect a wide range of personal data from tourists. The information includes:

  • Personal details: full name, date of birth, gender, nationality, address, phone number, and email.
  • Identification documents: ID or passport numbers, type of document, and issuing country.
  • Travel and payment information: check-in and check-out dates, accommodation details, booking reference numbers, and payment methods such as IBAN or credit card data.

The law aims to improve oversight and safety for travellers, but its introduction has raised concerns about data privacy and increased administrative burdens.

Tourists question the need for data collection

At the Dutch Travel Fair, where Spain is a popular holiday choice, many visitors expressed unease about the law. Some said the new requirements made them reconsider Spain as their next destination.

A small survey conducted at the event highlighted a common sentiment: travellers doubt whether collecting such extensive data is necessary or proportionate. While Spain remains a favourite destination for many, privacy concerns are starting to influence decision-making.

Tourism industry pushback

The Spanish tourism industry has not remained silent. Key travel associations, including UNAV and Acave, have voiced strong opposition to the law. They argue that it places an undue administrative burden on businesses and infringes on the rights of travellers under European data protection laws.

In a statement, the city of Alicante, a popular tourist hotspot, described the law as having “a highly negative impact on tourism businesses and visitors’ privacy rights.” Many in the industry fear that these measures could deter tourists and harm Spain’s reputation as a welcoming destination.

Both associations have signalled their intent to push for changes. If adjustments are not made, they are prepared to take the issue to the European Union, citing potential breaches of EU data privacy standards.

Impact on Spain’s tourism industry

Spain’s tourism sector is a vital part of the economy, and new measures affecting visitors’ experiences are a source of significant concern. The additional administrative workload required by the registration law has added pressure on businesses already dealing with a competitive market.

For visitors, the time spent completing lengthy forms upon check-in could affect their overall experience. While some see the measures as a necessary step for safety, others view them as excessive.

Uncertain future for the registration law

Whether the Spanish government will revise or relax the law remains to be seen. For now, businesses must comply with the new requirements, and travellers must prepare to share more personal data when booking a trip to Spain.

As travel associations prepare legal challenges, the law’s long-term impact on Spain’s tourism sector and its reputation among privacy-conscious visitors is uncertain.

Spain’s balancing act between oversight and privacy

The new registration law places Spain at a crossroads, balancing the need for oversight with maintaining its appeal as a tourist destination. While some travellers may look past the added requirements, others may choose alternative destinations where privacy concerns are less prominent.

For now, the Spanish tourism industry faces a critical challenge: reassuring visitors while navigating the complexities of new regulatory demands.

Also read: New data requirements for tourists in Spain spark privacy fears

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