In 2026, seasonal rentals have become increasingly important for property owners and real-estate operators. The Catalan Government publishes specific statistics based on deposits registered with INCASÒL.
What data is published?
The official page provides information on seasonal-rental deposits by territory and area, with data available from 2023 and updated in July 2026.
Seasonal does not automatically mean tourist
A seasonal contract must be assessed by its purpose, duration, circumstances and legal regime. In Catalonia, a tourist-use home has a specific administrative definition and is linked to stays of up to 31 days under tourism rules.
A seasonal-rental label should not be used merely to disguise an activity whose real characteristics fall within the tourist-use-home regime.
The documents should explain the temporary purpose
When a seasonal tenancy is signed, the documentation should make it possible to understand why it is not intended to meet the tenant’s permanent housing need. The contract must be assessed under the legislation applicable to it.
Particular attention in Barcelona
In high-pressure and tourist markets, the distinction between tourist, seasonal and permanent residential use has planning, administrative and contractual consequences. The same property may be subject to different requirements depending on its actual use and local rules.
What an owner should review
- Real purpose of the contract.
- Duration and circumstances of the stay.
- Documents supporting the temporary purpose.
- Applicable housing and tourism rules.
- Planning and condominium compatibility where relevant.