Greek Tourism Ministry Bill Open for Public Consultation

The Greek Tourism Ministry’s new draft law, which includes provisions targeting short-term rentals and the classification of hotels based on environmental performance, is now open for public comment.

According to the ministry, the proposed legislation — titled “Establishment of Specifications for Short-Term Rental Properties, Environmental Classification of Accommodations, Simplification of Tourism Business Establishment Procedures, and Additional Provisions for Strengthening Tourism Infrastructure” — aligns with Greece’s overall strategy for sustainable tourism development.

“The new regulations address contemporary challenges while safeguarding the competitiveness and resilience of Greek tourism, with a strong emphasis on respect for people and the environment,” the ministry stated.

Key provisions of the bill

– Short-term rentals

For the first time, a comprehensive framework has been introduced to regulate short-term rental properties, emphasizing health, safety, and quality standards. This framework enables the Tourism Ministry, in collaboration with the Independent Public Revenue Authority (AADE), to oversee compliance through on-the-spot inspections.

Under the proposed legislation, properties operating as short-term rentals in Greece must meet the following key requirements:

– Mandatory civil liability insurance: Properties must be insured to cover damages or accidents.
– Primary use certification: Properties must meet primary use standards and provide natural lighting, ventilation, and air conditioning.
– Compliance monitoring: A robust monitoring system will be established, involving both ministry services and mixed control teams with AADE officials. Violations may incur fines and sanctions similar to those applied to licensed tourist accommodations (hotels).

– Environmental classification of hotels

The draft law introduces a globally pioneering hotel classification system focused on sustainability, assessing the environmental and social footprint of tourism businesses.

Developed in collaboration with the Hellenic Chamber of Hotels and the Technical Chamber of Greece, the system aims to:

– Promote sustainable tourism operations by embedding principles of environmental responsibility.
– Align with national and European climate objectives to combat the effects of the climate crisis.

This innovative classification initiative reflects Greece’s commitment to advancing sustainable tourism practices while supporting the country’s long-term climate and environmental goals.

– Spas

The definition of revitalization centers (spas) has been expanded to accommodate the growing demand for wellness services. Under the current framework, these centers were narrowly defined as providers of spa services, excluding broader wellness offerings. The proposed regulation modernizes the legal framework to align with contemporary market trends and consumer needs in the wellness sector.

– Staff housing

The bill allows for the use of hotel staff housing facilities, originally introduced under Article 66 of Law 5121/2024. These facilities can now also be rented to personnel from the broader public sector, such as doctors, nurses of the National Health System, teachers, professors, and seasonal firefighters.

– Swimming pools

To promote sustainable development, new regulations will allow tourist accommodations to undertake projects for the pumping and use of seawater in swimming pools. This initiative aims to:

– Conserve limited freshwater resources in areas facing water shortages.
– Encourage more rational management of water reserves.
– Ensure an uninterrupted water supply during peak tourist seasons.

– Accessibility in tourist ports

The process of implementing accessibility projects in tourist ports will be simplified, supporting Greece’s national strategy “A Greece with Everyone, for Everyone”. The goal is to ensure unhindered access for individuals with disabilities, promoting inclusivity across tourism infrastructure.

– Simplified procedures for vehicle rental businesses

The procedure for establishing and operating car, motorcycle, three-wheeled, and four-wheeled vehicle rental businesses, as well as freight brokerage offices, will now fall under a simplified notification regime. This measure aims to remove bureaucratic hurdles, fostering the free and efficient development of business activities.

Public consultation

The draft law is open for public comment until December 19. Tourism professionals and other stakeholders are encouraged to submit their proposals and observations via the official consultation platform available here.