Can I use Airbnb in every country in the world?
25 July 2024
Airbnb has revolutionized the world of tourism by allowing millions of people to discover new cities and new countries through the eyes of their inhabitants. Whether you are an owner wanting to rent your accommodation or a traveler looking for unique and authentic accommodation, this platform has changed the game. However, not all cities and all countries view the growth of this new form of tourism favorably. So, can you really use Airbnb anywhere in the world? This is the question we will try to answer.
Rules for using Airbnb in France
France holds a preponderant place in the Airbnb market. According to a Statista study, the country is at the top of the most popular destinations on the platform, just ahead of the United States. However, the use of Airbnb in France is subject to strict rules.
Renting your main residence on Airbnb is authorized in France, but it is limited to a duration of 120 days per year. For second homes, the rule differs. In certain cities, such as Paris, it is necessary to obtain a change of use authorization to rent your property as a seasonal rental. This authorization is issued by the town hall and is often limited in time.
Additionally, to rent a home on Airbnb, the owner must obtain a registration number. This number must then be indicated on the Airbnb ad. It allows you to verify that the accommodation complies with the regulations in force.
Finally, the tourist tax is the responsibility of the traveler. It is collected by Airbnb at the time of booking and then donated to the municipality concerned.
Airbnb restrictions in other countries
If the use of Airbnb is becoming widespread throughout the world, certain cities have taken restrictive measures to regulate the rental of tourist accommodation via online platforms.
In New York, for example, the rental of Airbnb-type accommodation is very regulated. It is prohibited to rent your accommodation for a period of less than 30 days if the host is not present. In Barcelona, the town hall has implemented a plan to limit the number of tourist accommodations in certain neighborhoods.
In Singapore, owners cannot rent their accommodation for a period of less than three months. In Australia, rules vary by state, but in general, short-term rentals are permitted, subject to certain conditions.
It is therefore essential to find out about local regulations before renting your accommodation on Airbnb or booking a stay.
The impact of Airbnb on cities and countries
The impact of Airbnb on the cities and countries where the platform is present is a subject of debate. On the one hand, Airbnb helps to boost tourism and diversify the supply of tourist accommodation. On the other hand, it can contribute to the rise in real estate prices and the transformation of certain neighborhoods into “Airbnb zones”.
According to an INSEE study, in France, Airbnb rentals represent between 1% and 2% of all housing. However, in certain tourist areas, this proportion can reach 20%. This concentration of accommodation dedicated to tourist rental can have consequences on the residential rental market and on social cohesion.
The impact of Airbnb on the global tourism landscape is undeniable. The platform has allowed many travelers to discover unique and authentic accommodation, while offering owners the opportunity to make their property profitable. However, its use is regulated and varies from one country to another, from one city to another. Before renting your accommodation or booking a stay, it is therefore essential to find out about the rules in force. This way, you will be able to enjoy the benefits of Airbnb while respecting local regulations, for responsible tourism that respects local communities.
