Bulgaria vows to move short-term rentals out of the grey sector

The Bulgarian government is set to take decisive action against the grey economy by bringing properties used for short-term rentals into the formal sector. Minister of Tourism Ilin Dimitrov announced that these properties will be integrated into a unified tourism system starting next year.

This initiative is designed to enhance transparency and regulation within the burgeoning short-term rental market. By requiring these properties to be registered and operate within a formal system, the state aims to ensure fair competition, proper tax collection, and improved standards for tourists.

Dimitrov's announcement, made in Varna and cited by the Bulgarian News Agency (BTA), signals a significant shift in how the country manages its tourism accommodation. The unified system is expected to provide a clearer overview of the market and facilitate better oversight.

The move is anticipated to benefit both the government, through increased tax revenue, and consumers, who will have greater assurance regarding the quality and legitimacy of their accommodation choices.

“

Next year, they will be brought into the Unified Tourism System.