Greek Tourism Bill Including Short-term Rental Regulations to Be Voted on Thursday

The Hellenic Parliament. Photo © Aliki Eleftheriou

The Greek Parliament is set to vote on Thursday, January 16, on a new tourism bill aimed at regulating short-term rentals, among other key measures.

The legislation, introduced by the Greek Tourism Ministry and 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 broader strategy for sustainable tourism development.

“This draft law addresses both today’s challenges and tomorrow’s opportunities,” Greek Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni said on Friday during a parliamentary committee discussion of the bill.

The bill has attracted significant attention, particularly the provisions on short-term rentals, which have drawn backlash from property owners and managers. The legislation was open for public comment from December 6 to December 19, allowing stakeholders to express their concerns.

Focus on short-term rentals

Photo source: Airbnb

A key feature of the bill is its introduction of a comprehensive regulatory framework for short-term rentals in Greece. The new framework aims to ensure hygiene and safety standards while granting the tourism ministry, in collaboration with Greece’s Independent Authority of Public Revenue, oversight of these properties to ensure compliance.

Moreover, the bill stipulates that properties not classified as primary residences — including warehouses, basements, and former industrial or craft buildings — will be removed from short-term rental platforms.

Despite its intended purpose of creating fairness in the tourism market, the provisions have sparked controversy, with property owners and managers raising concerns about its impact on the sector.

Other key provisions

In addition to addressing short-term rentals, the proposed legislation introduces a variety of measures to enhance Greece’s tourism infrastructure and services. These include:

– Upgrading ski resorts to extend their operational seasons.
– Introducing environmental classification standards for hotels.
– Improving accessibility at port facilities.
– Simplifying car rental procedures.
– Allowing the use of seawater in swimming pools.

The bill also highlights religious tourism, with a provision assigning the Museum of Byzantine Culture the task of coordinating the cultural route “Steps of the Apostle Paul.” The initiative aims to enhance religious and pilgrimage tourism, a key element of Greece’s year-round tourism strategy.

Strategic goals for sustainable growth

Greek Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni (right) with with Deputy Tourism Minister Elena Rapti during the parliamentary committee discussion of the bill on Friday.

According to Kefalogianni, the draft law reflects Greece’s commitment to sustainable tourism growth. It balances economic and social prosperity with respect for local communities, cultural heritage, and the natural environment.

“This is a step forward in our strategic goal to keep Greek tourism at the forefront, ensuring it remains sustainable, resilient, and of high quality,” she concluded.

A milestone year for Greek tourism

Kefalogianni described 2024 as “a milestone year for Greek tourism”, with record highs expected in both arrivals and receipts. Projections estimate tourism revenues at 22 billion euros, surpassing the 20.6 billion euros recorded in 2023.

Special emphasis was placed on the significant increase in arrivals and revenue outside the traditional summer season, underscoring the importance of sustainable tourism policies.

“While these results are encouraging, there is no room for complacency,” Kefalogianni said. “We must adapt our policies, upgrade services, and ensure Greek tourism remains a global leader.”