What Applies to Airbnb Properties in Greece
In recent years, short-term rentals through platforms like Airbnb have seen significant growth in Greece. Whether you are a property owner or considering investing in a rental property, it’s important to understand the relevant legal and tax framework.
1. What Is a Short-Term Rental?
A short-term rental refers to the lease of a property for less than 30 days, arranged through digital platforms such as Airbnb, Booking.com, VRBO, etc., without offering additional services such as breakfast, daily cleaning, or reception.
2. Owner Obligations
If you rent out a property this way, you must:
- Register in the Short-Term Rental Registry through the Greek tax authority’s (AADE) online platform.
- Submit a digital declaration for each rental.
- Display the registry number in every online listing.
- Pay income tax based on the total rental earnings:
- 15% on income up to €12,000
- 35% on income from €12,001 to €35,000
- 45% on income exceeding €35,000
3. Restrictions and Regulations
In some areas (especially high-tourism or historic city centers), municipal or government authorities may impose restrictions, such as:
- A limit on the number of rental days per year (e.g., 90 days).
- A limit on the number of properties a person or tax ID (AFM) may rent out.
- A complete ban on short-term rentals in certain buildings or zones, subject to co-owners' approval.
4. Apartment Buildings and Co-Ownership Rules
The building's internal regulation may prohibit or limit the use of individual units for Airbnb. Any such decision must typically be made by the majority of co-owners according to Greek law.
5. Licenses and Commercial Use
If the property offers hotel-style services (cleaning during the stay, breakfast, transport, reception, etc.), a special tourism license from the Greek National Tourism Organization is required. In this case, the simple short-term lease status no longer applies.
6. What Applies if You Rent Out Three or More Properties or Offer Extra Services
If someone:
- rents out three (3) or more properties through short-term rental platforms, or
- provides additional hospitality services beyond basic bedding (e.g. cleaning during the stay, reception, transport, meals),
then the income is not considered simple rental income, but rather income from a business activity, requiring different tax and accounting treatment.
📌 Our Support
We provide professional assistance and services related to taxation and compliance for short-term rentals in Greece.
For more information, please contact us at accounting@grekodom.gr
