How to Earn Income from Your Spanish Holiday Home Without Bureaucratic Headaches
Are you considering buying a property in the Valencia Region as a second home or investment? Whether you’ve set your sights on a seaside apartment in Alicante, or a country villa near Valencia, one question often arises: Can I rent out my Spanish property when I’m not using it — and how easy is it to do legally?
The good news is: Yes, you can — and it’s easier than many people think.
With the right guidance, you can generate reliable income from your holiday home in Spain through seasonal rentals, a legal and low-maintenance option that avoids the red tape of tourist licensing.
As of recent updates to regional housing laws, short-term tourist rentals (under 10 nights) require a tourist licence in the Valencia Community. These licences involve various legal steps, inspections, permission from neighbours and delays.
However, if you plan to rent your home for longer periods, there’s a much simpler and fully legal route: the seasonal rental (or arrendamiento de temporada in Spanish).
A seasonal rental contract in Spain allows you to legally rent out your property to guests for temporary stays that are not their permanent residence. Ideal guests include:
• Holidaymakers staying several weeks or months
• Digital nomads and remote workers
• University students and academic visitors
• Retirees seeking long winter stays in Spain
Key Features of Seasonal Rentals:
• Minimum stay: More than 10 nights
• Maximum duration: Up to 11 months
• Purpose: Leisure, work, study – not permanent living
• Flexibility: You choose when to rent and when to use the property yourself
No Need for a Tourist Licence
Because the stay is longer than 10 nights, you avoid the administrative burden of applying for a tourist licence under Valencian regional law.
Lower Wear and Tear
Longer-term guests — such as families or professionals — are more likely to respect your home, reducing damage and repair costs.
Fewer Turnovers, Lower Maintenance
Fewer changeovers mean less cleaning and preparation, keeping your running costs low and profit margins higher.
Here’s how international property owners can start renting out their homes in Alicante or Valencia without hassle:
1. Register as a Seasonal Rental
Submit the Assignment of Short-Term Rental Registry Number at the Spanish Land Registry. Approval usually takes 1 to 3 weeks. You can access the form in English by clicking here >
2. Advertise Properly on Rental Platforms
Include your seasonal rental registration number and state a minimum stay of 11 nights to comply with the law. This avoids confusion with tourist rentals.
3. Use a Seasonal Rental Contract
A written agreement between you and your guest is essential. It should include:
• Duration and purpose of the stay
• Rental price and payment terms
• Conditions of use
A local solicitor or property consultant can help you create a simple compliant contract.
4. Register on the ‘Hospedaje’ App
All hosts in Spain must register their guests with the Ministry of the Interior. This is quick and easy via the Hospedaje app.
[Click here for a downloadable guide in Spanish.]
5. Declare Your Rental Income in Spain
Even if you are not a Spanish tax resident, you must declare your income:
• EU residents: Taxed at 19%
• Non-EU residents: Taxed at 24%
A local tax advisor (gestor in Spanish) can help you stay compliant and optimise deductions.
Is It Safe? Understanding Tenant Rights in Spain
Unlike long-term residential contracts, seasonal rentals in Spain are not subject to tenant protection laws that limit your ability to regain possession. This offers greater flexibility and security for the property owner.
Nevertheless, it’s always wise to screen guests and include clear terms in your agreement.
How HomeEspaña Can Help You Rent Your Property in Spain
At HomeEspaña, we provide end-to-end support for international property buyers in the Valencia Region.
We can:
• Recommend legal and tax experts
• Connect you with rental management companies
• Help you choose areas with strong seasonal rental potential
In summary, seasonal rentals in the Valencia Region offer a legal, profitable, and hassle-free way to generate income from your Spanish property — without the complexity of tourist licences.
Whether you want to rent your home for a few weeks in summer or several months each year, this flexible rental model gives you control, peace of mind, and returns on your investment.
Need help getting started?
Contact our team at HomeEspaña today for expert, personalised advice.
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