The Greek government is introducing new legislation for short-term rental properties, as announced by Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni and Finance Minister Kostis Hatzidakis.
Key Proposed Specifications:
- Entire property rentals or single rooms in owner-occupied residences only
- Minimum size requirements: 12 sq m for rooms, 25 sq m for apartments
- Adequate lighting, ventilation, and climate control
- No underground or semi-basement spaces
- Maximum 8 rooms per property, with occupancy limits
- Hygiene and fire safety certification
- Liability insurance
- Elevator certification for apartments (if applicable)
- Safety equipment: fire extinguisher, smoke detectors, first-aid kit
- Emergency information and escape route signage
- Regular sanitation and certification
- Energy-efficient heating and cooling
- Non-slip surfaces in bathrooms
Additional Measures:
- Increased resilience fees: €2 in winter, €8 in summer (April-October)
- Development of an inspection system to ensure compliance
New Airbnb License Restrictions:
- One-year ban on new licenses in central Athens areas (Koukaki, Thisio, Petralona, Pagrati, up to Neos Kosmos)
- Government plans to offer incentives for converting short-term rentals to long-term rentals
