Short-Term Rentals in Greece: Major Regulatory Changes Coming in October 2025

Greece is preparing for a major transformation in how short-term rental properties are regulated. Starting October 1st 2025, new national standards will come into effect impacting property owners and platforms like Airbnb. These changes aim to ensure higher safety, better quality and greater transparency in the rapidly growing short-term rental market and they come with strict inspections and hefty penalties for non-compliance.

Raising the Bar for Property Standards

The upcoming regulations introduce a broad set of minimum requirements that all short-term rental properties must meet. These are designed to bring private rentals closer in line with the standards expected from hotels and other licensed accommodations.

Here’s what will be required:

• Core functionality: All properties must have adequate natural light, proper ventilation and a functioning air conditioning system
• Liability insurance: Hosts will be required to carry liability insurance to cover damages or accidents during a guest’s stay
• Safety equipment: Fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, circuit breakers and clearly marked emergency exits will be mandatory
• Health and sanitation measures: Pest control certifications, visible emergency contact numbers and first-aid kits must be readily available for guests
• Certified electrical safety: A licensed electrician must sign off on compliance with electrical safety regulations

These measures are designed to enhance the overall quality of accommodations and improve the guest experience while aligning with broader public safety goals.

On-Site Inspections & Tax Compliance

To enforce the new framework, joint inspection teams from the Ministry of Tourism and the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (IAPR) will carry out property audits. Inspections will be announced at least 10 days in advance giving property managers time to gather the required documentation.

During an inspection:

• Inspectors will verify whether the property complies with the new standards
• Simultaneous tax audits may be conducted to ensure rental income is properly declared
• Officials will carry formal ID and written authorization detailing the scope of the inspection
• If access to a property is denied authorities may request police assistance
• Follow-up inspections will occur if violations are found with increased penalties for repeated non-compliance

Financial Penalties for Violations

Failure to comply with the new rules will result in significant fines including:

• First offense: €5,000 for missing safety requirements or obstructing an inspection
• Second offense within 12 months: Fine increases to €10,000
• Third or repeated offense: Fine escalates to €20,000

All fines must be paid within 15 calendar days. Delays may lead to legal enforcement actions such as asset seizures.

Why Greece Is Making These Changes

This regulatory overhaul has multiple goals:

• Improve safety and quality: By enforcing a consistent set of safety and hygiene standards Greece aims to ensure all visitors enjoy a secure and comfortable stay
• Level the playing field: With similar requirements for all types of accommodations the new rules address long-standing concerns from the hotel industry about unfair competition
• Support sustainable tourism: The reforms are aligned with European guidelines that promote responsible development and community welfare in tourist-heavy areas

What Lies Ahead

These reforms mark a pivotal moment for short-term rentals in Greece. While the goal is to improve quality safety and fairness the real-world impact will depend on how effectively the rules are enforced and how property owners adapt. Older buildings, limited infrastructure and local housing needs all add layers of complexity.

As the October 2025 deadline approaches property managers and hosts must begin preparations now. This is not just a legal shift — it’s a call for greater professionalism and responsibility in the sector. If implemented properly these changes could position Greece as a model for balancing tourism growth with community and guest well-being.