The Spanish Confederation of Hotels and Tourist Accommodation (CEHAT) has announced its intention to take legal action against Royal Decree 933/2021, which introduces new regulations meaning that all holidaymakers have to register sensitive data at hotel receptions when checking in for their stay from Monday 2nd December 2024.
Hoteliers are expressing deep concerns over the decree’s potential negative impacts on both the tourism sector and visitors, citing insufficient dialogue and clarity from the Government.
CEHAT has criticised the Government for ignoring repeated requests for consultation, not only from its members but also from international tourism associations.
Despite months of warnings about the possible administrative and economic burdens the regulation could impose, the Government has failed to issue a promised Ministerial Order to clarify how the decree will be implemented.
The confederation highlights that the decree will complicate travel processes for both international and domestic tourists, potentially disrupting their experiences. Hoteliers, meanwhile, face confusing and excessive compliance obligations under the new regulation, increasing check in times as well as legal and financial risks.
Legal Risks and European Violations
CEHAT warns that the regulation violates European data protection and payment system directives, leaving businesses vulnerable to significant fines. Non-compliance could result in penalties exceeding €30,000, creating what CEHAT describes as "unacceptable legal uncertainty" for a sector that contributes 12% of Spain's GDP.
Jorge Marichal, CEHAT’s president, said: "We have been requesting dialogue and concrete proposals for months to guarantee legal security and the viability of the sector, but we have not received any response. This lack of political will forces us to resort to legal measures to protect businesses and travellers."
The confederation is now working with legal experts to prepare a challenge to the regulation. CEHAT argues that the decree’s impact is disproportionate and incompatible with EU laws, and that its implementation without proper clarification risks significant harm to Spain’s vital tourism industry.
“Spain cannot allow such a damaging regulation to come into force without addressing its many flaws. We will continue fighting to ensure the sector and travellers receive the respect and protection they deserve,” Marichal added.
Potential Solutions and Collaboration
Despite its legal preparations, CEHAT remains open to collaboration. The confederation has reiterated its willingness to work with Spanish and European authorities to develop practical and secure technological solutions that balance regulatory compliance with the sector’s operational needs.
Ramón Estalella, Secretary General of CEHAT, emphasized: "We have always collaborated with the State Security Forces and Corps and remain open to dialogue to find viable solutions before the new Royal Decree comes into force."
With just days until the decree’s implementation, CEHAT’s decision to pursue legal action highlights the urgency of the situation. The organisation argues that its efforts are essential not only to defend the rights of travellers but also to safeguard the economic stability of the tourism industry.
