How to Get a Holiday Rental Licence in Málaga: Step-by-Step Guide

Everything you need to know to obtain a VFT licence in Andalucía: requirements, documents, timelines, and common mistakes. Updated 2026 guide for Costa del Sol property owners.

What Is the VFT Licence and Why Do You Need It?

If you own a property in Málaga or anywhere on the Costa del Sol and want to rent it to tourists, you need a Vivienda con Fines Turísticos (VFT) registration. It is the mandatory licence in Andalucía for any dwelling offered as tourist accommodation, whether through Airbnb, Booking.com, or any other platform.

Operating without a licence is not just an administrative offence: it carries fines between €2,000 and €150,000 depending on severity, and platforms are required to verify registration numbers. In 2026, the Junta de Andalucía has stepped up inspections, particularly in high-density tourist areas such as Málaga's Historic Centre and La Malagueta.

Who Can Apply for a VFT Licence in Andalucía?

Any individual or legal entity that owns the property or has the owner's authorisation can apply. You do not need to be a Spanish resident. Requirements apply to the property, not the applicant:

• The property must have a first-occupancy licence or habitability certificate.
• It must have direct external ventilation and blackout systems in bedrooms.
• It must have adequate furniture and equipment for tourist use.
• It cannot be in a building whose homeowners' association expressly prohibits tourist activity.

Documents Required for the Application

Before starting the process, gather the following documentation:

1. Declaración responsable (responsible declaration): the core document. A formal declaration that the property meets all legal requirements. Filed with the Andalusian Tourism Registry. 2. Energy efficiency certificate: mandatory and current. Must be registered with the Junta de Andalucía. 3. Civil liability insurance: with a minimum coverage of €150,000 covering damage to guests and third parties. 4. Floor plan: showing rooms, surface areas, and emergency exits. 5. Updated photographs of the property. 6. DNI/NIE of the applicant and, where applicable, owner's authorisation.

The Step-by-Step Process

Step 1: Obtain the energy certificate. Contact a certified assessor. The cost ranges from €150 to €300 for a standard apartment. The process takes 1–3 days.

Step 2: Take out civil liability insurance. Ensure the policy specifically covers tourist accommodation activity. A standard home insurance policy is not sufficient. Annual cost: approximately €200–400.

Step 3: Check the homeowners' association bylaws. This is one of the most important steps and causes the most problems. Request the current bylaws from the community administrator and verify no clause expressly prohibits tourist rentals. If there is no express mention, the activity is permitted by default.

Step 4: File the responsible declaration. Done electronically through the Andalusian Tourism Registry portal. You will need a digital certificate or Cl@ve. Once the responsible declaration is filed, the property is authorised to operate immediately.

Step 5: Receive the registration number. The Tourism Registry assigns a VFT number (format: VFT/MA/XXXXX) that must appear in all listings and platforms. The usual timeframe is 15 to 30 days from filing.

How Long Does the Entire Process Take?

With all documentation prepared, the complete process typically takes 3 to 6 weeks:

• Energy certificate: 1–3 days.
• Insurance: 1–2 days.
• Bylaws verification: 1–2 weeks (depends on the community).
• Registry processing: 15–30 days.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not checking community bylaws before applying for the licence. If the community passes a prohibition later, you could lose the licence.
• Submitting standard home insurance instead of tourist-activity-specific insurance.
• Forgetting to include the VFT number in platform listings. Fines are automatic.
• Not renewing the energy certificate when it expires.
• Not registering guest check-ins and check-outs with the National Police through the SES.Hospedajes system.

What About the Moratorium in Málaga?

Málaga City Council has imposed restrictions on new licences in certain high-density tourist areas. If your property is in an affected zone, it is essential to consult a specialist adviser before starting the process. Licences already granted are not affected by the moratorium.

How Does AltaHomes Help with the Licence?

At AltaHomes we support Costa del Sol property owners through the entire VFT licence process: from initial requirements verification to final registration. Our team coordinates the energy certificate, insurance, documentation, and electronic filing. See our full management services.

Can I Lose the Licence Once Obtained?

Yes. The licence can be revoked if the property ceases to meet requirements, if the homeowners' association passes an express prohibition, or if serious violations are detected. That is why it is essential to keep all documentation up to date and comply with guest registration obligations. With professional management, this is not a concern: we handle ongoing regulatory compliance.

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*Our founder, Manuel Moreno (Forbes Business Council), has written about the importance of professional management in short-term rentals: read on Forbes.*