From June 2026, all short-term holiday rental properties in Croatia must obtain a unique registration number before they can be advertised on booking platforms or rented to visitors. The new rule is part of European Union-aligned legislation designed to bring the short-term rental market under more apparent regulatory oversight. By requiring registration numbers, Croatia intends to make it harder for unlicensed properties to operate, level the playing field for compliant hosts, and give travellers more confidence that the places they book meet quality and legal standards.

The registration number serves as an identification code for accommodation units and will be provided free of charge to property owners. Hosts and property managers will need this number to list properties on significant platforms such as Airbnb and Booking.com, ensuring only legally compliant rentals are marketed. The aim is to reduce the so-called “grey zone” of undeclared rentals that have historically escaped taxation and regulatory scrutiny.

For local authorities, the change grants additional enforcement capabilities. Tourist boards and municipalities will be able to enforce compliance directly, including ensuring that mandatory tourist taxes are paid and that illegal listings are removed from the market. Greater local control is expected to expedite responses to non-compliance and support a more orderly accommodation sector.

For the tourism industry, the benefits include improved market transparency, enhanced trust among visitors and a more robust framework for legitimising rental properties. Tourists are likely to have a better overall experience, with clear assurance that properties meet national and local requirements. At the same time, legitimate property owners will face fairer competition against illegal rentals that have previously operated without oversight.

In the broader context of European tourism, Croatia’s rental registration initiative aligns with efforts to balance market growth and community wellbeing. Strong regulatory frameworks help destinations maintain sustainable levels of tourism, protect local housing markets and support responsible travel. By tackling unregistered rentals and empowering local enforcement, Croatia strengthens its position as a reliable, visitor-friendly destination while contributing to broader goals of sustainable and equitable tourism across Europe.

Read more here: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/croatia-takes-action-to-regulate-tourism-market-with-new-rental-registration-system-get-the-details-here/

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