Croatia approves new law to regulate short-term holiday rentals from 2027

ZAGREB, 27 June 2026 – The Croatian Government has approved a proposal for a new Hospitality Act aimed at creating a more modern and efficient framework for the hospitality sector, with a particular focus on regulating short-term accommodation rentals and improving oversight, the Ministry of Tourism and Sports said in a statement.

One of the key objectives of the proposed legislation is to implement EU Regulation 2024/1028 on the collection and sharing of data relating to short-term accommodation rental services.

The regulation enables EU member states to establish registration systems and improve data exchange with digital booking platforms.

Under the proposed law, Croatia will introduce a single registration system for private accommodation providers, along with a mandatory registration number for rooms, apartments and holiday homes advertised on digital platforms.

The measure is designed to improve data sharing with online platforms and prevent unregistered properties from being advertised.

Tourism and Sports Minister Tonči Glavina said the proposal is intended to bring greater order to the short-term rental market, protect those operating legally and strengthen efforts to tackle unregistered accommodation providers.

He added that the registration process for landlords will be free of charge and straightforward.

The legislation also introduces the full digitalisation of administrative procedures through the eTurizam system, making it easier for accommodation providers to complete official processes online.

Another significant change is the introduction of mandatory re-categorisation for accommodation facilities that have not previously been subject to it, along with new deadlines for existing re-categorisation requirements.

The government says the implementation timetable will allow sufficient time for property owners to adapt while ensuring accommodation classifications accurately reflect current standards and help maintain the quality of Croatia’s tourism offer.

The proposed law also provides clearer rules governing private accommodation services, strengthens enforcement by involving additional authorities, including the Customs Administration and municipal wardens, and increases penalties for illegal business activities.

According to Minister Glavina, the legislation is intended to make the sector more organised, transparent and sustainable over the long term, while protecting legitimate accommodation providers, improving the quality of Croatia’s tourism offering and balancing tourism development with the interests of local communities.

Following its approval by the Government, the proposed law will now be submitted to the Croatian Parliament for further consideration. If adopted, it is scheduled to come into force on 1 January 2027.