If you’re thinking about buying a holiday home in Andalusia, or already own one, you might have heard about the new changes to tourist licences. From 2025, these licences, known in Spain as VUTs (Vivienda con Fines Turísticos), will be linked to the property rather than the owner. This is a big change for property buyers, sellers, and anyone planning to rent their home to tourists. In this article, we’ll walk you through what this means, why it matters, and what you need to do to stay compliant.
What Is a Tourist Licence in Andalusia?
A tourist licence is a legal requirement for anyone who wants to rent out their property to holidaymakers in Andalusia. Until now, the licence was tied to the owner. That meant if you sold the property, the licence didn’t automatically transfer to the new owner. Starting in 2025, the licence will stay with the property. This change makes it much easier for new buyers to rent the home right away, without waiting for a new licence.
Understanding the 2025 Changes
The key change is simple but important. The licence now travels with the property. If you sell your villa or apartment, the new owner automatically has the right to continue renting it to tourists. However, the new owner must still make sure the property meets all municipal rules and register the licence under their name. If these steps aren’t followed, they could face fines or even be forced to stop renting.
Who Needs a Tourist Licence and Who Doesn’t?
Not every property needs a tourist licence. Short-term rental properties, like holiday apartments or villas, usually do. Properties rented long-term to tenants or owner-occupied homes are often exempt. There are also rules about apartment buildings and community approvals. Some communities can restrict or ban holiday rentals, so it’s important to check the rules before buying or renting.
How the Licence Stays with the Property
The big advantage of this change is that licences are now property-linked. This means that when a home is sold, the licence doesn’t expire. The new owner can continue renting without delay. This is a huge benefit for investors because it makes the property easier to sell and ensures rental income can continue. The new owner just needs to update the registration with the municipality and confirm that all safety and legal requirements are met.
Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining a Tourist Licence
Even with a property-linked licence, you may need to apply for a new licence for some properties. The process starts at the municipal office where the property is located. You will need documents like the property deed, an energy efficiency certificate, and a floor plan. Once submitted, the municipality checks the property for compliance with safety, building, and zoning rules. When approved, the property is registered, and you can legally rent it to tourists.
Buying a Property with an Existing Licence
If you are buying a property in Andalusia, it’s important to check if it already has a tourist licence. You should verify that the licence is valid and that there are no compliance issues. Make sure the licence is included in the sale agreement. This will save you time and headaches later and allow you to rent the property legally as soon as you buy it.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many owners make mistakes that could lead to fines. Some start renting without checking if the licence is current or registered correctly. Others ignore the rules of the community of owners or forget municipal reporting. Some don’t meet safety or insurance requirements. Taking the time to understand these rules can prevent costly problems.
Tax and Legal Obligations
Owning a property with a tourist licence comes with responsibilities. Rental income must be declared to the tax authorities, and you may have municipal fees or VAT to consider. Non-resident owners have different tax obligations than residents. Insurance and safety regulations must also be followed. Staying on top of these obligations keeps your rental legal and protects your investment.
Benefits for Investors
A property-linked licence makes investing in Andalusia easier and safer. You can buy a property knowing the licence will remain valid. Renting can start immediately, providing a steady income. The property is more attractive to buyers in the future because the licence stays with it. This change brings both convenience and security to anyone investing in holiday rentals.
Conclusion
The 2025 change linking tourist licences to properties is a welcome update for buyers, sellers, and investors in Andalusia. It simplifies the rental process and ensures continuity for short-term rentals. Always check licence validity, register changes with the municipality, and follow safety and tax regulations. If you’re planning to buy or sell a holiday home in Andalusia, understanding these rules will save you time, stress, and money.
