UK Hospitality Regulatory Changes: 2025 Compliance Guide

Post author By Karina
Post date 27/03/2025
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As the UK hospitality industry continues to evolve, 2025 brings several regulatory changes that impact hotels, guesthouses, and short-term rental operators. From sustainability mandates to labor laws and digital travel authorizations, staying compliant is crucial to maintaining operations and avoiding penalties.

In this article, we break down the key UK hospitality regulatory changes you need to know and how to adapt your business efficiently.

Key UK Hospitality Regulatory Changes in 2025

1. Short-Term Rental Registration Scheme

One of the most significant changes for vacation rental managers is the introduction of the Short-Term Rental Registration Scheme in the UK. This scheme will require hosts to register their properties with local councils, adding an extra layer of compliance and transparency to the short-term rental market.

Learn more about this: New Regulations: UK Short-Term Rental Registration Scheme.

2. Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)

Starting January 8, 2025, non-EU travelers entering the UK must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), costing £10 per person. This requirement extends to EU travelers from April 2025, except for UK and Irish citizens and permanent residents of Ireland. This change may affect booking volumes, especially in Northern Ireland, where cross-border travel is common.

3. Deposit Return Scheme (DRS)

The UK is introducing a Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) to improve recycling of single-use beverage containers. Although hospitality venues aren’t required to serve as return points, environmental expectations may encourage voluntary participation. Notably, glass containers are excluded due to logistical concerns.

4. Single-Use Cup Charges in Scotland

Scotland is expected to implement a £0.25 charge on single-use cups—regardless of the material—by the end of 2025. Hospitality venues will need to apply the charge at point of sale and maintain records of cup sales and revenues, adding administrative responsibilities.

5. Employment Law Amendments

The Employment Rights Bill introduces new guidance on redundancy and rehiring practices. Employers must now follow collective consultation processes or risk having contractual changes invalidated. Additionally, protective awards in collective redundancy cases have increased from 90 to 180 days, enhancing employee compensation.

How to Prepare for the Changes

Audit Your Operations

Conduct a full compliance audit to identify which changes apply to your business—especially if you manage multiple property types across different UK regions.

Update Guest Communication

With the ETA requirement in place, update your pre-arrival communication to inform international guests of travel documentation requirements. Chekin’s guest app lets you share this easily within digital guidebooks.

Automate Administrative Workflows

Chekin helps property managers stay compliant by automating key operational tasks:

Guest registration and identity verification
Online check-in and digital signatures
Tourist tax calculations and collection
Secure payment processing
Communication and upselling of additional services

Automation saves time and ensures alignment with regulatory expectations.

Conclusion

With multiple UK hospitality regulatory changes coming into effect in 2025, it’s essential for hoteliers and vacation rental managers to stay informed and proactive. From ETA travel policies to sustainability regulations and employment reforms, adapting early will ensure smooth operations.

Platforms like Chekin not only help you comply with new legal requirements but also streamline guest management, making it easier to focus on guest satisfaction and business growth.

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