Is Airbnb legal in Alicante?

Airbnb Regulations in Alicante: A Brief Overview

Alicante, a bustling coastal city in Spain, is a popular destination for short-term rentals, including Airbnb listings. To legally operate a short-term rental in this region, hosts must comply with specific regulations established by the Valencian Tourism Registry and local authorities.

Key Requirements for Short-Term Rentals: 1. Licensing: Obtain a Tourist Use House License (Licencia de Vivienda de Uso Turístico) by registering with the Valencian Tourism Registry. This entails submitting a declaration of tourist use. 2. Urban Compliance: Acquire a Certificate of Urban Compatibility (Certificado de Compatibilidad Urbanística) from the Alicante town hall, confirming the property’s eligibility for tourist rental use. 3. Occupancy License: Ensure the property has an occupancy license or certificate of property occupancy. 4. Property Standards: Rentals must meet certain habitability standards and include mandatory amenities for tourist properties.

Rental Limitations: In certain high-demand areas, such as Ciutat Vella, there are restrictions, including a cap of 60 rental days per year. Additionally, the entire property must be rented instead of individual rooms, unless the owner resides on-site.

Tax Obligations: Non-resident owners are subject to a flat rental income tax rate of 24%, while residents pay based on their marginal tax rate after applicable deductions.

Legal Consequences: Renting without the proper licenses can result in fines of up to €600,000, and enforcement of these regulations has been increasing as Alicante seeks to manage over-tourism and maintain housing availability for residents.

Current Market Scenario: As of mid-2023, there are approximately 5,695 licensed Airbnb properties in Alicante, reflecting a strong interest in this market. However, new license applications have become increasingly challenging to secure due to regulatory tightening.

Hosts are encouraged to stay informed about local regulations, consult professional advisors, and ensure compliance to operate legally and successfully within the competitive Alicante short-term rental market.