Greece: How to Rent Out your Flat on Airbnb

Those interested in renting out their properties, homes or flats in Greece on Airbnb must meet the following requirements as set out by the economy, finance and tourism ministries.

According to a recent government decision effective November 1, 2015, interested parties can lease properties that meet the standards of self-catering accommodation (furnished villas and apartments) subject to the provisions in article 46 of law 4179/2013 (A ‘175), without possessing the special accommodation sticker and with no set duration. Previously, in order to lease accommodation for less than 30 days, the special sticker was required.

Also, properties that meet the requirements set out for rented furnished rooms/apartments may also operate without the special accommodation sticker.

It is noted that according to the current tax system, income from renting properties is taxed according to the following scale: for income less/equal than 12,000 euros, the tax rate is 11 percent, while for income over 12,000 euros, the rate is 33 percent. These rates will change once new tax legislation is voted in parliament.

In addition, should owners of any of the above accommodation types provide services (cleaning, catering, protection) these will be taxed accordingly as income and be subject to the applicable laws as laid out by the finance ministry.

Owners wishing to engage in business activity and lease their property solely as a tourist accommodation [Article 1 of Law 4276/2014 (A 155)], must obtain legal authorization by local licensing and supervisory boards and obtain the special operations sticker.

Different tax rules apply to a property registered as a “tourist accommodation”.