The expected changes are related to amendments in the European regulatory framework. Starting from May 20, 2026, a significant part of short-term rental properties in Bulgaria may be removed from major booking platforms such as Airbnb and Booking.It is estimated that up to half of the current ads may not meet the new requirements. Read more in our material.
Georgi Duchev, head of the Bulgarian Association of Professionals in the field of Hotel Management, also expects prices to rise and confirms that the number of ads is likely to decrease. At the same time, he stressed that the regulatory changes would bring greater clarity and fairness to the sector. In his opinion, consumers who will have more confidence when booking accommodation and lower the risk of misleading offers will benefit the most.
Duchev also noted that in recent years, the distinction between traditional hotels and apartments for short-term rentals has become increasingly blurred. Many apartments now offer amenities similar to hotel rooms, while the hotels themselves must compete, focusing on services such as meals, cleaning, fitness services and security. The changes are expected to primarily affect online platforms, where most ads are concentrated, rather than the informal practice of on-site rental.
Baneva noted that property owners are already showing concern, especially regarding the administrative requirements they will need to meet. Small landlords, especially those who rent out only one property, may find it difficult to adapt, and they may completely withdraw from the market, as it becomes more difficult to maintain profitability outside the "gray" sector.
They told in the material.
Source: Novinite
