Spain’s Royal Decree 933/2021 marks a significant regulatory shift for hosts and accommodation providers. Designed to enhance public security and data control, this law introduces strict requirements on how guest information is collected, stored, and submitted to national authorities. If you’re hosting in Spain, especially via short-term rental platforms like Airbnb or Booking.com, this is a regulation you cannot afford to ignore.
So, what exactly is Royal Decree 933/2021, and what must hosts do before the law is fully enforced? Let’s break it down.
What is Royal Decree 933/2021?
Royal Decree 933/2021, published on October 26, 2021, establishes new rules for the registration and communication of personal data of guests in Spain. It affects all entities and individuals who provide accommodation or vehicle rental services – including hotels, tourist apartments, B&Bs, hostels, and short-term rental hosts.
The decree aims to:
- Strengthen public safety and traceability
- Standardize how guest data is submitted across Spain
- Replace the previous, fragmented reporting system (based on older orders like ORDEN INT/1922/2003)
Enforcement Timeline: Deadline in 2024
While the law was published in 2021, its full implementation has been phased in, giving hosts time to adapt. The final deadline for full compliance is December 2, 2024. After this date:
- All hosting providers must be registered in the SES Hospedajes system
- They must use the platform to digitally submit guest information in real time
What are hosts required to do?
To comply with Royal Decree 933/2021 by the 2024 deadline, hosts must:
1. Register with SES Hospedajes
This is the national digital platform created by the Spanish Ministry of the Interior for handling guest data securely. SES Hospedajes is mandatory for all accommodation providers, regardless of size or platform used.
2. Collect required guest information
Before check-in, hosts must collect the following data:
- Full name
- ID or passport number
- Date of birth
- Gender
- Nationality
- Date and time of check-in and check-out
- Booking channel used
Note: Paper forms or signed guestbooks will no longer be accepted. Data must be collected digitally.
3. Submit data to authorities in real-time
Guest information must be sent immediately through SES Hospedajes — either manually via their web portal or automatically via an approved integration.
4. Store data securely for 3–5 years
Hosts must digitally store guest registration records for up to 5 years and make them available to law enforcement when required.
What happens if you don’t comply with Royal Decree 933/2021?
Failure to comply with Royal Decree 933/2021 may result in:
- Heavy fines
- License revocation
- Being delisted from short-term rental platforms
- Legal penalties for non-submission or data mismanagement
This is not a recommendation – it’s mandatory.
How GuestAdmin helps hosts stay compliant?
GuestAdmin was built specifically to help property owners and managers comply with Royal Decree 933/2021 without stress. Our system:
- Automates guest registration and SES submission
- Stores guest records securely as required
- Tracks incomplete registrations with automated reminders
- Integrates with PMS platforms, OTAs, and local calendars
- Offers English, Spanish, and French support
✅ No manual uploading. ✅ No missed deadlines. ✅ 100% compliant.
Final Thoughts
Royal Decree 933/2021 is not just another regulation. It’s a legal obligation that will impact every host operating in Spain. By taking action before December 2, 2024, you ensure your business is compliant, secure, and trusted by guests and authorities alike.
Ready to simplify your compliance? Contact us today and try GuestAdmin service free for 14 days.