TL;DR The short-term rental Vienna registration number has been a concern for many property owners and landlords since the EU regulation took effect on May 20, 2026. Although the European regulation is already in force, there is currently no mandatory registration requirement for short-term rentals in Austria. Nevertheless, landlords should closely monitor developments, as future national or regional implementations are possible. The Vienna 90-day rule remains significantly more relevant at present, as it has a major impact on the economic viability of short-term rentals. In Vienna in particular, it is therefore worthwhile to carefully compare short-term and Long-term rental. The most important factors are compliance with existing regulations, a realistic profitability analysis, and adjusting the rental strategy early on. This guide provides an overview of the most important regulations, risks, and opportunities for property owners.
Anna owns a well-maintained apartment in an older building in Vienna’s 7th district. For years, she has successfully rented out her apartment to tourists and business travelers through short-term rental platforms. But in early 2026, headlines began to pile up: EU regulations, registration numbers, stricter inspections, and heavy fines for violations.
Anna is asking herself the same question as many property owners in Vienna:
Will I need a registration number for my short-term rental starting May 20, 2026?
The answer is more complex than many media reports suggest. At the same time, Vienna’s 90-day rule remains one of the most important economic factors for landlords.
In this article, you'll learn what the new EU regulation means, what obligations are already in effect, and when a long-term lease can be more financially attractive.
Short-Term Rentals in Vienna: Registration Number—What Will Apply Starting in May 2026?
The new EU regulation on short-term rentals has been in effect since May 20, 2026. The regulation aims to establish a uniform system for data exchange between platforms and authorities across Europe. The regulation generally applies to online platforms and hosts who rent out furnished accommodations on a short-term basis for a fee. Hotels, guesthouses, and campgrounds are not covered by this regulation.
Important: The regulation does not automatically create a registration requirement in every member state. Rather, it harmonizes the rules for those countries or regions that introduce a registration procedure. According to information from the Federal Ministry, however, no registration procedure will be implemented in Austria for the time being when the regulation takes effect. Therefore, there is currently no obligation to apply for or provide an EU registration number in Vienna.
The Real Challenge: Vienna's 90-Day Rule
While much of the discussion focuses on EU regulations, the actual risk for landlords continues to lie in Vienna’s regulations.
Since July 2024, many apartments have been subject to a limit of 90 days of short-term rentals per calendar year. Anyone wishing to rent out their apartment beyond this limit must obtain a special exemption under certain conditions.
For property owners, this means:
- Earning potential will be limited.
- Capacity utilization must be carefully planned.
- Violations can have serious consequences.
Tip: Before you start renting out your property, check whether it is even suitable for short-term rentals.
Read also:
Short-term rental vs. long-term rental
Checklist: Can I rent out my apartment on short notice?
| Exam Question | Done |
|---|---|
| Verification of the apartment's designated use | ☐ |
| Vienna Building Code taken into account | ☐ |
| Analysis of the 90-Day Rule | ☐ |
| Local tax included | ☐ |
| Statistical Reporting Requirements Reviewed | ☐ |
| House Rules Reviewed | ☐ |
| Profitability Calculated | ☐ |
What obligations remain in effect regardless of the EU regulations?
Even without a mandatory registration number, landlords must comply with numerous regulations.
Building Code
The Vienna Building Code sets forth the conditions under which residential space may be used for tourism purposes.
Tourism Taxes
Depending on how it is used, local taxes and reporting requirements may apply.
Statistical and Reporting Requirements
Certain rental transactions must be recorded for statistical purposes and reported.
Commercial Law
In some cases, a commercial classification may also be relevant.
For the time being, the EU regulation does not change these existing obligations.
Sample Calculation: Short-Term Rental or Long-Term Rental?
Let's get back to Anna.
On a platform, your apartment averages:
- 140 € per night
- 75 rental nights per year
- 20 % Platform and Operating Costs
Option 1: Short-term rental
| Position | Amount |
|---|---|
| Revenue | 10.500 € |
| Costs (20 %) | -2.100 € |
| Net income | 8.400 € |
Option 2: Long-term rental
- Monthly rent: 950 €
- Annual rent: 11,400 €
- Low risk of vacancies
| Position | Amount |
|---|---|
| Annual Rent | 11.400 € |
| Administrative Costs | -600 € |
| Net income | 10.800 € |
Result
In this example, long-term leasing generates a higher and more predictable net return.
Traditional leasing can become more economically attractive, especially when regulations are stricter.
Are you thinking about renting out your apartment on a long-term basis? Learn more here More on this topic.
When will long-term rentals become more attractive again?
Many property owners are finding that the benefits of short-term rentals are increasingly dwindling:
- Increased administrative burden
- More regulatory requirements
- Uncertainties Regarding Future Regulations
- Higher Vacancy Risks
- Fluctuating Capacity Utilization
In contrast, long-term rentals offer:
- Predictable Revenue
- Less administrative work
- More Stable Returns
- Lower legal risk
In Vienna in particular, many market participants are once again observing stronger demand for traditional rental apartments.
Checklist for Landlords 2026
| Task | Priority |
|---|---|
| Review Vienna's 90-Day Rule | High |
| Analyze the Use of the Apartment | High |
| Prepare a Profit and Loss Statement | High |
| Comply with ongoing reporting requirements | Medium |
| Monitor developments regarding EU registration | Medium |
| Review the leasing strategy annually | Medium |
Key Takeaways
- The EU regulation has been in effect since May 20, 2026.
- According to the latest information from the ministry, a mandatory EU registration number has not yet been implemented in Austria.
- The Vienna 90-day rule remains the most significant practical restriction.
- For many property owners, long-term rentals are once again becoming more financially attractive.
- Anyone who wants to minimize legal risks should review their rental strategy on a regular basis.
Conclusion: Your registration number isn't what determines your success
After analyzing the situation, it became clear to Anna that the biggest challenge right now is not the EU registration number, but the profitability of her rental property under Vienna’s current conditions.
Even though European regulations will become more important in the future, property owners should focus primarily on existing Viennese regulations and their own return on investment.
Would you like to know which rental strategy is best for your apartment?
Then have your property professionally appraised and get expert advice.
Be sure to check out our article on this topic: Eviction from a Condominium in Vienna
FAQ – Short-Term Rentals Vienna Registration Number 2026
Starting May 20, 2026, will I need an EU registration number for my short-term rental in Vienna?
Not at this time. Although the EU regulation on short-term rentals has been in effect since May 20, 2026, Austria has not yet implemented a registration process. Therefore, there is currently no requirement to apply for an EU registration number or to include it in listings.
What is the EU regulation on short-term rentals?
The EU regulation is intended to standardize data exchange between online platforms and government agencies. The goal is to increase transparency in the short-term rental sector. However, the regulation does not automatically require member states to implement a registration process.
Does the EU registration number already apply to Airbnb in Vienna?
No. Landlords can currently continue to list their accommodations on platforms such as Airbnb or Booking.com without an EU registration number, provided they comply with all applicable Austrian and Viennese regulations.
What is the Vienna 90-Day Rule?
Since July 2024, many apartments in Vienna may be used for short-term tourist rentals for a maximum of 90 days per calendar year. A special exemption from the authorities may be required for rentals exceeding this limit.
What penalties apply for violations of Vienna's short-term rental regulations?
Violations of the Vienna Building Code or other legal requirements can result in substantial administrative fines. Property owners should therefore check whether their apartment is even permitted to be used for short-term rentals before proceeding.
Do I have to pay taxes on my income from short-term rentals?
Yes. Income from renting is generally taxable and must be reported on your income tax return. Depending on the scope of the rental activity, issues related to sales tax or business law may also apply.
Is Airbnb still allowed in Vienna?
Yes. Short-term rentals through Airbnb are generally still permitted. However, you must comply with the applicable provisions of the Vienna Building Code, the 90-day rule, and tax and regulatory reporting requirements.
What alternatives are there to short-term rentals?
Many property owners are once again increasingly opting for traditional long-term leases. These often offer predictable rental income, less administrative work, and fewer legal uncertainties.
When is a long-term rental more worthwhile than a short-term rental?
A long-term lease can be particularly attractive if the apartment is underutilized, if operating costs are high, or if Vienna’s 90-day rule limits potential returns. A customized profitability analysis provides clarity.
What obligations apply regardless of whether a company has an EU registration number?
Regardless of any potential future registration requirement, landlords must continue to comply with existing regulations. These include, among other things, the Vienna Building Code, tax obligations, tourism taxes, and, where applicable, statistical reporting requirements.
Could the legal situation regarding short-term rentals change in the future?
Yes. The EU regulation establishes the framework for potential registration procedures. Therefore, property owners should regularly monitor developments in Austria and Vienna so they can respond to new requirements in a timely manner.
How can I find out if my apartment is suitable for short-term rentals?
Before renting out a unit, owners should review the unit’s designated use, the provisions of the Vienna Building Code, the building rules, and any restrictions imposed by the homeowners’ association. Seeking professional advice can help avoid legal risks.
What should property owners pay special attention to in 2026?
The key points are compliance with the Vienna 90-day rule, ongoing monitoring of potential registration procedures, proper reporting of income for tax purposes, and regular review of the cost-effectiveness of the chosen rental strategy.
External links:
https://www.wko.at
https://www.wien.gv.at
https://www.bmwet.gv.at
