Greece May Consider Rental Day Cap to Regulate Airbnb Activity

In an attempt to address a surge in Airbnb-style rentals which have led to a shortage of homes for long-term rental in Athens and other parts of the country, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said new measures to regulate Airbnb-style rental activity may include caps on the number of days these can be leased.

In an interview to Action24 this week, Mitsotakis said the government had already taken measures to reign in short-term rentals including taxation on such activity.

“We have already enforced restrictions and requirements for those using Airbnb for commercial purposes. Additionally, we will discuss the appropriate duration for short-term rentals,” Mitsotakis said.

The Greek prime minister hinted at new measures earlier this year. In March, he said studies were required and that additional measures would be taken to address the issue. He admitted that as a result of increasing short-term rental activity, “the center of Athens is losing its distinct character, something that should concern us and the Municipality of Athens,” he said, adding that relevant announcements would be made soon.

Greek PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis speaking on Action24 TV.

Greece’s hoteliers have repeatedly called on the government to take stricter measures to address unregulated activity which has led to a shortage of properties available for long-term rental and driven property prices and rents skyward.

Among others, the government is mulling the introduction of tax incentives for those offering properties for long-term rentals.

If approved, the new rules will apply starting in the fall. Details are expected to be announced during the PM’s state of the nation address.