Spain Bans Hotels from Photocopying Guest IDs Amid Privacy Concerns
Spain bans hotels from photocopying guest IDs to protect tourist privacy. Hotels must now verify identity without storing documents.
Ahmed Mainul 
Madrid, June 18, 2025: The Spanish government has issued a strong warning to hotels across the country—stop photocopying or scanning guest identity documents. The move comes as part of a broader crackdown on data privacy violations in the tourism and hospitality sector.
Under Spain’s updated data protection regulations, hotels are allowed to verify guest identity but not store or duplicate ID cards, passports, or any other personal documents. Authorities argue that keeping copies of IDs exposes travelers to unnecessary risk, including identity theft and misuse of sensitive information.
The announcement was made following multiple complaints from both tourists and privacy advocates. Many hotels, especially in tourist-heavy areas like Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, and Costa del Sol, were reportedly still making photocopies of guest IDs during check-in—a practice that is now being flagged as illegal unless under very specific legal circumstances.
Spain’s data protection agency (AEPD) stated:
“Verifying identity is permitted. Copying and storing personal documents without consent or necessity is not. Hotels must update their protocols immediately.”
The hospitality industry has been given a short window to adapt, and those failing to comply may face hefty fines and legal action.
Tourism associations have welcomed the move, calling it a step forward in protecting guest rights and boosting Spain’s reputation as a safe, responsible travel destination.
