For decades, France has consistently been the preferred holiday destination for European tourists and has also gained popularity among non-European tourists. As a result, it has become an ideal location for individuals looking to host their properties on Airbnb. If you are a property owner in France and are contemplating listing your property on Airbnb, this article will provide you with a comprehensive guide that covers the necessary legal procedures and regulations involved in the process.
List your property on Airbnb in France in 7 steps
Listing your property on Airbnb in France involves several practical and legal steps. Here’s how to register and start Airbnb in France:
- Create an Airbnb account: Sign up for Airbnb in France. This will be your platform for managing your listing, bookings, and interactions with guests.
- Prepare your property: Ensure your property is clean, safe, and equipped with basic amenities. High-quality photos and a detailed description will make your listing more attractive.
- Set your price: Research similar listings in your area to set a competitive price. Consider factors like location, size, amenities, and seasonality.
- Understand and comply with local regulations: France has specific rules for short-term rentals, especially in major cities. Ensure you understand and comply with these regulations (more on this below).
- Government registration: In some cities, you must register your property with the local town hall. This is mandatory in Paris, for example.
- Register your property on Airbnb in France: Once your property is ready and you’ve understood the legal requirements, you can publish your listing on Airbnb in France.
- Manage your bookings: Be responsive to booking requests and inquiries. Good communication and service can lead to positive reviews, which are crucial for attracting future guests.
Rules and regulations to start an Airbnb in France
Starting an Airbnb in France is a promising venture, but it’s crucial to understand the French rules on Airbnb rentals. Do you want to buy a house in France to start short-term rentals? Even though Airbnb is legal in France, hosts must adhere to national and city-specific regulations. These include registering your property in certain cases, especially if it’s not your primary residence, and adhering to rental duration limits. Additionally, understanding and fulfilling tax obligations, including tourist taxes, is essential.
1. Paris: Airbnb rules and regulations
In Paris, Airbnb hosts must register their property to the Town Hall (Mairie de Paris), especially when renting out entire properties. It’s not necessary to register if hosts are only offering a private room for short-term rentals. For those managing multiple listings, each property requires individual registration. It’s not allowed to rent out subsidized housing in Paris without permission.
2. Nice: Airbnb rules and regulations
Nice enforces periodic checks by certified agents to identify fraudulent landlords. Main residences can operate as rentals but are limited to 120 days annually, and earnings are capped at €23,000 ($24,702) per year. Authorization is mandatory for primary residences listed as tourist rentals.
3. Marseille: Airbnb rules and regulations
Marseille’s rules prohibit the commercial rental of entire properties not used as primary residences. All rental contracts are overseen by an official observatory, ensuring compliance with local housing laws. Additionally, rental charges cannot exceed 20% above the median rent for the apartment’s price band.
4. Lyon: Airbnb rules and regulations
In Lyon, the rental of a principal residence must not exceed 120 days per year. Short-term rental authorization is time-limited, not exceeding 9 years, and requires registration at the town hall to obtain a registration number.
5. Cannes: Airbnb rules and regulations
Cannes prohibits renting out main residences for more than 120 days per year. Hosts must declare their furnished tourist accommodation to the Cannes town hall, adhering to local tourism and housing regulations.
6. Toulouse: Airbnb rules and regulations
Toulouse requires hosts to declare their furnished tourist accommodation to the local town hall. Main residences can be rented out for short periods, limited to 120 days per year, with a tourist tax applicable per person per night.
7. Bordeaux: Airbnb rules and regulations
In Bordeaux, main residences can be rented out for up to 120 days annually. Hosts must declare their furnished tourist accommodation to the Bordeaux town hall and apply for a change of use authorization for secondary homes, transitioning them from residential to commercial use.
8. Montpellier: Airbnb rules and regulations
Montpellier mandates registration as a furnished apartment for rent at the town hall. Rental duration is capped at 120 days per year for primary residences, with secondary housing rentals limited to one per fiscal household for six years.
9. Strasbourg: Airbnb rules and regulations
Strasbourg’s regulations limit the number of apartments an owner can list and require a change of use authorization valid for 6 years from the city hall. This is essential for converting a second home from residential to commercial use.
How much are Airbnb taxes in France?
Local and foreign hosts are subject to income tax on their rental earnings. The specific tax rate depends on your total income bracket. For Airbnb in France, hosts must also pay tourist taxes (taxe de séjour), which Airbnb collects on behalf of the hosts and remits to local authorities. The amount of tourist tax in France depends on the property’s location, but is usually around €0.83 ($0.89) per night.
Besides the income tax, hosts must also charge and pay Value Added Tax (VAT). The VAT rate in France is 20%. Airbnb hosts must register for VAT, collect VAT from all their guests, complete the periodic VAT returns, and submit the payment for the VAT they owe to the French government.
Airbnb fees
Anyone can register their property on Airbnb in France without paying a cost. However, Airbnb still charges hosts a fee for using their platform.
For Airbnb in France, this fee is typically a percentage of the booking total, including the cleaning fee (if applicable). This service fee is deducted from the host’s payout, generally around 3%, but can be higher or lower depending on the specific booking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What documents do I need to rent a room in France through Airbnb?
To rent a room on Airbnb in France, you’ll need to provide identification (ID or passport), proof of property ownership or rental agreement (if you’re a tenant), and in some cities, a registration number obtained from the local town hall. Additionally, ensure compliance with local tax regulations.
How to start Airbnb long-term rentals in France?
To start long-term rentals on Airbnb in France, first ensure your property meets safety and amenity standards suitable for extended stays. Register your property if required by local laws, create an Airbnb account, set up your listing on Airbnb specifying ‘long-term stays’, and clearly outline house rules and expectations. Be aware of and comply with local rental laws and tax obligations.
Is running an Airbnb in France allowed?
Yes, running an Airbnb in France is allowed and totally legal. However, hosts must comply with national and local regulations, including registering the property, adhering to rental duration limits, and fulfilling tax obligations. Regulations can vary significantly, especially in major cities.
Is Airbnb illegal in Paris?
Airbnb is not illegal in Paris, but there are strict regulations. Hosts must register their property with the city, adhere to a rental cap of 120 days per year for primary residences, and ensure compliance with local housing and tax laws. Failure to comply can result in penalties.
Is Airbnb profitable in France?
Airbnb in France can be profitable, particularly in tourist-heavy areas like Paris, Nice, and Lyon. Profitability depends on location, property type, amenities offered, and effective management. Hosts must balance operational costs and competitive pricing while adhering to local regulations to maximize earnings.
What are the best places in France to Airbnb?
Several places in France are perfect for starting an Airbnb rental business. Cities such as Paris, Nice, Marseille, Lyon, Cannes, and Strasbourg attract many visitors, especially during the high season (from May to August). Other places, such as Bordeaux, Toulouse, Montpellier, Colmar, Normandy, Annecy, and the south of France, can also be ideal for starting short-term rentals on Airbnb in France.
