Short-term rentals with license: new tourism law in practice

If you rent out your apartment in Tirana on a short-term basis, or are thinking about doing so, there's important news: the recently approved new tourism law brings concrete obligations for all owners offering short-term accommodation for tourists. The period when you could list a room or apartment without any official documentation is over.

The change is simple but clear: every entity renting to tourists must have a license. No exceptions.

What the new law says specifically

The new tourism law establishes two mandatory steps for every owner wishing to offer short-term rentals:

• Registration at the National Business Center (QKB) – you must register your activity as an entity providing tourist accommodation services.
• Classification certificate from the Ministry of Tourism – after registration, you have 30 days to obtain the certificate confirming that your property meets minimum requirements.

Without these two documents, you cannot legally offer your apartment for short-term rental. Rental platforms, online portals, and any other intermediaries cannot accept listings from unlicensed owners.

Three classes of tourist structures

The new law divides accommodation structures into three main classes, according to size and services offered:

• First class – small structures, usually apartments or private rooms that the owner rents out permanently or temporarily.
• Second class – medium structures, such as guesthouses or villas with several rooms, operating as small family businesses.
• Third class – hotels and professional structures with full services, regular staff, and larger capacity.

For most owners renting out one or two apartments in Tirana, the first category is what applies. Requirements are easier than for hotels, but documentation remains mandatory.

Why it's good for serious owners

Although at first glance it seems like an extra burden, licensing brings concrete advantages:

• Greater credibility – tourists and short-term renters prefer registered owners, especially foreigners seeking invoices and legal security.
• Legal protection – in case of conflict or problems, you have the status of a registered operator, with clear rights and obligations.
• Access to international platforms – many major portals are starting to require license numbers to accept listings, especially after new EU regulations.

Owners who start the process now position themselves as serious partners in the rental market, getting ahead of those still operating informally.

How the law affects platforms like Zgjedhja Ime

We at Zgjedhja Ime are committed to helping owners comply with the new law. This means we will gradually require documentation for short-term and daily rentals listed on the platform.

Our model remains unchanged: owners list 100% free, with no commission, ever. Renters pay only once – 50% of the first month's rent when they move in, with no monthly or hidden fees. What changes is the standard: we want every owner on the platform to be compliant with the law, to protect both them and the renter.

Next steps for you as an owner

If you already rent short-term, or are planning to, here's what you need to do:

• Go to QKB and register your activity as a tourist accommodation provider – the procedure doesn't take long and is done online.
• Apply for the classification certificate from the Ministry of Tourism within 30 days of registration.
• Prepare property documentation: ownership certificate, contract with water/electricity company, photos of the spaces.
• Keep a copy of the license ready to give to renters who request it, and to upload to platforms.

If you have technical questions about the process, the official QKB and Ministry of Tourism websites provide step-by-step guidance.

Conclusion

The new tourism law is not a threat, but a necessary regulation of a market that has grown very quickly. Owners who adapt quickly will gain renters' trust, access to the best platforms, and peace of mind knowing they work within the law.

At Zgjedhja Ime, we continue to offer the most transparent service in the market: zero commission for owners, one clear fee for renters, and support for everyone who wants to do things right. If you have an apartment for short-term rental, start the licensing process today – and contact us if you need help along the way.