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Greece’s Short-Term Rental Changes (2025): Key Rules & How to Comply

Writer's picture: Kyveli ZahouKyveli Zahou

Greece is shaking up the short-term rental market with new rules set to take effect on October 1, 2025. Passed on January 16, 2025, this comprehensive legislation introduces stricter requirements for properties rented on platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com. The goal? To boost safety, improve compliance, and balance housing availability in the country’s booming tourism sector.

If you’re an expat in Greece or a property owner renting to travelers, these changes are crucial. This guide will walk you through the new regulations, their implications, and practical steps to ensure compliance.

 

Key Requirements for Short-Term Rentals

The new rules mandate several operational and safety standards for properties listed as short-term rentals. Here’s what you’ll need to know:


1. Primary Use

  • Properties must be classified as primary spaces under Greek building regulations. If your short-term leased property is a non- primary space (e.g storage space, garage), you can no longer rent it out as a short- term rental**.

  • They must have natural lighting, proper ventilation, and air conditioning to ensure comfortable living conditions for guests.


2. Mandatory Liability Insurance

  • Owners are required to secure civil liability insurance to cover potential damages or accidents involving guests.


3. Safety and Fire Regulations

Every property must meet the following safety standards:

  • Obtain an electrical inspection certificate from a licensed electrician.

  • Install fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, and an anti-shock circuit breaker (RCD).

  • Clearly mark emergency exits for evacuation purposes.


4. Pest Control and Hygiene Standards

  • Properties must have regular pest control certifications to ensure cleanliness and sanitation.

  • Provide a fully stocked first aid kit and an emergency contact guide for guests.


Inspection and Compliance Process

To ensure properties meet these standards, the government has introduced a detailed inspection framework:


On-Site Inspections

Officials from the Ministry of Tourism and, when necessary, mixed teams including tax authorities (AADE), will conduct inspections of registered properties.


Notice Period

  • Property managers will receive at least 10 days’ notice before an inspection.

  • This gives owners time to prepare and gather the required documentation.


Police Assistance

  • If inspectors face obstruction during their visits, authorities can request assistance from the Greek police.


Penalties for Non-Compliance

Failing to meet the new requirements can lead to severe financial consequences:


Fines

  • A fine of €5,000 will be imposed if:

    • Inspectors are denied access to the property.

    • The property fails to meet the safety or operational standards.

    • Required documentation isn’t provided during inspections.


Increased Penalties for Repeat Offenses

  • A second violation within a year will result in the fine being doubled.

  • For subsequent violations, the penalty can increase to four times the original amount.


Rectification Period

  • Property owners have 15 days to address any compliance issues after an inspection.


Why These Regulations Matter

The Greek government aims to address three main issues with the new short-term rental laws:

  1. Improved Safety and Quality

    • By enforcing higher standards, Greece ensures a better guest experience and aligns with international expectations.

  2. Reduced Tax Evasion

    • Stricter oversight helps close loopholes in tax collection from the short-term rental market.

  3. Balanced Housing Availability

    • With better regulation, the government hopes to ease pressure on long-term housing options for local residents.


How to Prepare for October 2025

Property owners and expats can take the following steps to comply with the new regulations and avoid fines:


1. Conduct a Compliance Check

  • Review your property to ensure it meets all outlined standards, including certifications for safety, hygiene, and insurance.


2. Organize Documentation

  • Maintain up-to-date records of all required documents, such as:

    • Electrical inspection certificates.

    • Pest control certifications.

    • Liability insurance policies.


3. Stay Informed

  • Follow updates from the Ministry of Tourism and tax authorities (AADE).

  • Check platforms like Airbnb or Booking.com for compliance guidance.


4. Consult Professionals

  • Seek assistance from legal or tax experts. For example, ExpatLaw.gr specializes in guiding expats and property owners through these regulatory changes.


Beyond Short-Term Rentals: Broader Tourism Reforms

The new law doesn’t stop with short-term rentals—it also introduces measures to enhance Greece’s overall tourism sector:

  • Environmental Certification: Hotels and accommodations will be ranked based on their environmental sustainability practices.

  • Streamlined Licensing: Simplified procedures for businesses like car and motorcycle rentals.



 

The new short-term rental regulations in Greece mark a significant shift in the country’s tourism and housing landscape. While they may require property owners to invest time and resources into compliance, these changes aim to create safer, higher-quality accommodations and a fairer housing market.

If you’re unsure where to start, the team at Expat Law can help you navigate these complex regulations. Don’t wait until October 2025—take action now to ensure your property meets the new standards.

 

Need Assistance?

Have questions about the new rules? Drop them in the comments or contact ExpatLaw.gr for personalized guidance. Let’s make your life in Greece as smooth as possible!



** Exceptions apply! Contact us to discuss your eligibility.


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