In response to intensifying pressure from local authorities, Airbnb has announced it will be removing illegal listings across the Canary Islands. This decision comes amid a growing crackdown by Spanish regions on the overwhelming rise of short-term rentals, which locals argue are driving up housing prices and overtourism.

This policy update could serve as a warning sign for hosts operating without the correct licensing, not just in Spain but across Europe. As more governments move to regulate the holiday rental market, platforms and hosts need to adapt to the new compliance-driven landscape or risk penalties and lost income.

Spain has long been one of the most popular countries for tourism, particularly with destinations like the Canary Islands welcoming millions of global travellers each year. However, this year-round influx of tourists has led to growing tension between visitors and locals, many of whom struggle to find affordable housing due to the popularity of short-term rentals like those listed on Airbnb.

The Canaries, which include Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and Lanzarote, have seen increasing protests from residents frustrated by unaffordable rents and the transformation of their communities into tourist hotspots. The regional government has responded with proposed changes to housing regulations requiring stricter permits and legal compliance for vacation rentals.

Airbnb’s announcement to proactively remove unlicensed listings follows this heightened scrutiny and aims to support a sustainable model for tourism in the area. A company spokesperson explained that the platform will now “require hosts to provide a registration number, and listings without these will be removed.”

The Canary Islands currently have around 50,000 holiday rental properties, many of which are suspected of operating without appropriate registration. With the government now setting stricter guidelines and fines in motion, Airbnb’s preemptive cleanup may remove thousands of non-compliant listings from its platform.

This initiative echoes steps previously taken in other European cities like Amsterdam and Paris, where Airbnb has cooperated with local authorities to comply with tourist caps and enforce registration rules. For both veteran and new hosts, understanding regional rules like the 90-day short-term rental cap is vital to staying on the right side of the law.

For Airbnb hosts in the Canary Islands who have yet to secure proper registration, this crackdown serves as both a warning and an opportunity. Illegal listings not only risk deletion but also substantial fines. Hosts urgently need to assess their compliance and may want to consider working with reputable Airbnb management companies that are familiar with local laws and licensing processes.

Meanwhile, travellers may find fewer options available when searching for accommodation in popular Spanish locations. While this may initially be frustrating, it also offers a more transparent and trustworthy booking experience. Legal listings are more likely to meet quality standards and local safety regulations, giving peace of mind to guests.

This outcome underlines the importance for holidaymakers to do thorough research when booking an Airbnb—especially in cities or regions with known restrictions or regulatory pressures.

Spain is not alone in its battle against the rapid spread of short-term rentals. Across Europe, cities like Barcelona, Lisbon and Berlin have enacted forms of regulation aimed at curbing overtourism and protecting housing for locals.

It’s becoming increasingly clear that governments are prioritising a balance between tourism and livability for residents. Earlier this year, housing ministers in Spain voiced concern over entire buildings being turned into pseudo hotels through online platforms, often without any staffing or oversight.

In places like Portugal, similar regulations are being reinforced to ensure that Airbnb and other vacation rental platforms operate fairly under local housing laws. You can learn more about Portugal’s updated short-term rental policies in this article from Reuters.

As popular travel seasons approach, this move by Airbnb could represent the beginning of a broader shift in the short-term rental industry—one that favours compliance, transparency, and better regulation. Hosts in all European regions would be wise to reflect on this change and strengthen their property’s legitimacy and professionalism.

Whether you’re new to the rental game or a seasoned host, staying ahead of evolving legislation is essential. Taking the time to review local laws, get advice on licensing, and consider working with an experienced property management firm can be key to long-term success. Resources like this guide on how to manage Airbnb properties effectively can offer invaluable insights.

As Spain steps up its regulation of short-term rentals, Airbnb is positioning itself to comply with local demands, preserving its presence in popular tourist areas like the Canary Islands. For hosts, the message is clear: illegal listings are no longer being tolerated, and taking steps to operate legitimately is not just beneficial—it’s now essential.

For more insights on how professional management and compliance can elevate your Airbnb offerings, explore our range of services at Moa & Kin. We specialise in end-to-end Airbnb management in cities like London, Oxford, Bath, and Bristol—helping hosts stay legal, profitable, and stress-free.