Legal tip 1514.Tourist Rentals vs. Seasonal Contracts in Valencia: What Every Owner Should Know
Tuesday, August 26, 2025 @ 3:42 PM
If you own a property in the Valencia region and rent it out, you’ve probably heard about the 2024 regulatory change that affects how short and medium-term stays must be managed. Many owners still feel unsure: Should I use my tourist licence for all stays? Or can I use a seasonal contract under the LAU for longer holiday lets?
The good news is that the rules are now much clearer.
Tourist Rentals (VUT) – Up to 10 Nights
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Applies to stays of 10 nights or fewer.
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Requires a tourist licence (VUT number) registered with the Generalitat Valenciana.
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Guest data must be registered with the police (SES.Hospedajes).
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Advertising is mainly through tourist platforms such as Airbnb, Booking, etc.
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Services such as bedlinen and cleaning are expected, in line with the tourism model.
Seasonal Rental Contracts (LAU) – 11 Days or More
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Applies to stays of 11 days or more, whether for holidays, study, or temporary work.
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Covered by the Ley de Arrendamientos Urbanos (LAU) as a seasonal let (uso distinto de vivienda).
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No tourist licence is needed.
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The deposit is two months’ rent, and it must be lodged with the Generalitat Valenciana within one month of signing.
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Guest registration with the police is not required.
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Should be advertised as a seasonal or medium-term rental, not as a tourist let, to avoid confusion with tourism regulations.
Why This Matters
Understanding the difference between the two regimes is essential if you want to:
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Avoid fines or the risk of losing your tourist licence.
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Maximise your rental income by legally accepting both short stays and longer bookings.
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Provide tenants with the correct contract type, protecting both you and them.
Quick Comparison
Aspect |
Tourist Rental (VUT) |
Seasonal Contract (LAU) |
Duration |
Up to 10 nights |
11 days or more |
Licence |
Mandatory |
Not required |
Regulation |
Valencia tourism law |
Spanish Urban Leases Act |
Deposit |
Variable / platform rules |
2 months, lodged with Generalitat |
Guest registration |
Required |
Not required |
Advertising |
Tourist platforms |
Medium-term rental portals, agencies |
Final Thought
In short:
This distinction allows property owners in Valencia to combine both systems safely — short tourist lets on licensed platforms and longer stays with proper seasonal contracts.
Have you tried offering seasonal contracts for longer holiday bookings?
Share your questions and experiences here — this is a common issue for many property owners, and your input could help others!
