The new bill of the Ministry of Tourism was submitted to the Parliament for discussion and voting.

The draft law is a continuation of the Ministry’s previous legislative initiatives (n. 5061/2023 and n. 5121/24) and is part of the overall strategy for the qualitative development of Greek tourism, in terms of sustainability.

The main provisions of the bill are:

Short-term rental properties: A framework for the operation of properties that are rented short-term with health and safety standards is established for the first time. In addition, the possibility of the control of these properties by the services of the Ministry of Tourism, in cooperation with the Independent Public Revenue Authority, is foreseen.

Environmental Ranking of Hotel Accommodations: A pioneer and innovative, worldwide, accommodation ranking system is established, based on the principle of sustainability, taking into account their environmental and social footprint. The system is based on a framework developed by the Hotel Chamber of Greece together with the Technical Chamber of Greece. These provisions are guided by the principles of sustainability, with the aim of developing the tourism business activity in terms of sustainability.

Staff Housing: It is possible to utilize the facilities of staff rooms in hotel accommodation (which were established for the first time by article 66 of Law 5121/2024) so ​​that they can be rented by staff of the wider public sector (such as doctors and nurses of the National Health Service , Health Centers, teachers and professors, seasonal firefighters etc.).

Arrangements for the ski resorts: The possibility of enriching these special tourist infrastructures, with entertainment services and activities in the mountainous regions of the country throughout the year is provided.

Swimming Tanks: With the proposed arrangements, it is possible to carry out any necessary project for the pumping and depumping of sea water in order to be used in a swimming tank (swimming pool) of a main or non-main tourist accommodation. This specific regulation is introduced in the context of the need to protect limited water resources, especially in areas with water scarcity, the more rational management of water reserves and the assurance of the existence of an uninterrupted source of water, in particular, during periods of high tourist demand.

Accessibility in tourist ports: The process of implementing accessibility projects in tourist ports is simplified. This arrangement is part of the national strategy “a Greece with everyone for everyone” to ensure unhindered access for the disabled.

Car rental offices: The procedure for the establishment and operation of car rental offices, motorcycle rental companies, three-wheeled and four-wheeled vehicles over fifty (50) cubic centimeters and freight brokerage offices, which are now subject to the notification regime, is simplified. This legislative intervention promotes the free and unhindered development of business activity, free from bureaucratic constraints and delays.

The new legislative regulations respond to modern challenges and ensure the competitiveness and resilience of Greek Tourism, and aim to enhance visitorship in space and time, with respect for the environment, local communities and people.