Cyprus launches crackdown on illegal short-term rentals

Cyprus is stepping up oversight of the short-term rental market. Authorities are carrying out inspections, reviewing complaints and preparing new legislative measures aimed at tightening control over the activities of accommodation providers.

The Deputy Ministry of Tourism of Cyprus is developing stricter rules for the sector and preparing to implement new European regulations. One of the main objectives — is to create a comprehensive register of accommodation providers and increase market transparency.

At present, 8606 self-catering accommodation properties, with a total capacity of 36 540 beds, are registered with the Deputy Ministry of Tourism. The largest number of such properties is located in the Paphos district.

At the same time, the number of new registrations fell in the first half of 2026. During the first six months, 1048 properties were registered, compared with 1299 in the same period of 2025, representing a decrease of 19%.

Inspections of properties operating without registration are also continuing. To date, inspectors from the Deputy Ministry of Tourism have drawn up 103 reports concerning unregistered short-term rental properties.