As announced by the Ministry, the new bill is part of a comprehensive strategy for the qualitative development of Greek tourism, with a strong emphasis on sustainability. The proposed legislative changes address modern challenges and aim to enhance the competitiveness and resilience of Greek tourism while ensuring respect for people and the environment.
One of the key provisions of the bill is the introduction of a regulatory framework for short-term rentals. For the first time, properties rented for short periods will be required to meet hygiene and safety standards. This framework will allow the Ministry of Tourism, in collaboration with the Independent Public Revenue Authority (A.A.D.E.), to monitor and regulate the tourism product. Properties will be required to have civil liability insurance for potential damages or accidents, and they must be areas of primary use, featuring natural lighting, ventilation, and air conditioning. A monitoring system will be established to ensure compliance, with mixed inspection teams from the Ministry of Tourism and A.A.D.E., and sanctions and fines will be imposed for violations, in line with those applied to tourist accommodations.
Another significant provision is the establishment of a pioneering environmental classification system for hotel accommodations. This system will assess the environmental and social footprint of accommodations, focusing on sustainability. Developed by the Hellenic Chamber of Hotels in collaboration with the Technical Chamber of Greece, the system is designed to align with both national and European climate goals, promoting sustainable business practices within the tourism sector.
The bill also expands the definition of spas to address the growing demand for wellness services. Under the current legislation, spas were primarily defined in terms of providing spa treatments, but this regulation broadens that scope to include services related to overall wellness. This update reflects the evolving trends in the tourism industry and ensures the legislation remains relevant to market needs.
Furthermore, the bill introduces provisions allowing hotel staff rooms to be rented out to employees in the broader public sector, such as doctors, nurses, teachers, and seasonal firefighters. This initiative aims to address the housing shortage for public sector workers, providing more affordable living options.
The legislation also includes regulations to support sustainable water use, particularly in areas facing water scarcity. It allows the use of seawater for swimming pools in tourist accommodations, ensuring that limited water resources are managed efficiently, especially during high tourist demand periods.
In terms of accessibility, the bill simplifies the process for implementing accessibility projects at tourist ports, aligning with the national strategy “Greece for Everyone” to ensure access for people with disabilities.
Additionally, the bill streamlines the procedure for establishing and operating car rental offices, motorcycle rental businesses, and freight brokerage offices. These changes are designed to reduce bureaucratic barriers and foster the growth of businesses within the tourism sector.
The bill will remain open for public consultation until December 19, 2024, during which tourism operators and other interested parties are encouraged to submit proposals and comments.
