Spanish authorities have fined short-term rental platform Airbnb more than €64 million for repeated breaches of housing and consumer protection rules, including the publication of listings for unlicensed tourist accommodation. The decision forms part of Spain’s broader effort to tackle its deepening housing crisis, which officials say has been exacerbated by overtourism.
According to Majorca Daily Bulletin, regulators identified violations in 65,122 Airbnb listings. Spain’s Ministry of Consumer Affairs said the platform had advertised tourist properties without valid registration numbers, used false or misleading licence details, and failed to clearly state the legal status of property owners.
The main penalty totals €64,055,311, which Spain’s Consumer Affairs Agency said represents six times the illegal profit Airbnb is deemed to have generated through these practices.
In addition, Airbnb was fined €55,000 for failing to comply with bans imposed through orders or temporary measures issued by investigative authorities. Two further fines of €10,000 each were imposed for lesser infringements, including the company’s refusal to provide information during the investigation.
The sanctions are part of a policy drive led by Spain’s Minister for Social Rights, Pablo Bustinduy, aimed at addressing what the government considers one of the country’s most urgent challenges. Bustinduy said that “thousands of families are living on the brink due to a lack of housing, while some profit from business models that push people out of their homes.” He added that “no company in Spain, regardless of its size or influence, is above the law.”
The ruling comes amid widespread protests against overtourism across Spain, particularly in popular destinations. Residents have increasingly argued that short-term holiday rentals are driving up rents and reducing access to affordable housing in desirable neighbourhoods, as property owners prioritise higher-paying tourist stays over long-term tenants.
Spain’s action against Airbnb signals a tougher regulatory stance on short-term rental platforms, as national and local authorities seek to rebalance tourism growth with housing availability and social stability.
