Renting an Airbnb in Vienna: Permits, Rules & Tips 2025

Vienna is a sought-after tourist destination – but also a city with clear rules for short-term rentals. Here you'll learn what you need to keep in mind to rent through Airbnb in full legal compliance.

1. Why does Airbnb in Vienna require a permit?

Vienna protects residential housing through its Building Code (Bauordnung) and Trade Regulations (Gewerbeordnung). The city wants to prevent rental apartments from being permanently repurposed for tourism.

In short: anyone who rents out regularly or commercially needs a corresponding trade licence or permit.

2. When do you need a permit for Airbnb in Vienna?

A permit is required for:

•Renting apartments to tourists on a regular basis

•Renting out apartments that are not your primary residence

•Any rental where your aim is to earn money

No permit is required for:

•Occasionally renting out individual rooms in your primary residence

•Short-term subletting during a temporary absence

Even here, the rule applies: check with the relevant municipal authority, e.g. MA 6 or MA 64.

3. How do you obtain a permit?

•Register a trade as a "private room provider" (Privatzimmervermieter) or under the accommodation trade

•The building's permitted use must allow "accommodation" (Beherbergung)

•Meet fire safety and security requirements where applicable

Important: some districts have special rules, e.g. the Inner City (Innere Stadt).

4. What happens without a permit?

•Administrative fines from the City of Vienna

•Reports filed by neighbours or tenants

•Tax audits & back payments

5. Is there a registration requirement?

There is no general Airbnb registration number as in Berlin or Munich, but:

•Reporting obligations to the tax office apply

•The accommodation may be subject to the tourism levy (Ortstaxe)

6. Which zoning designation is permitted under building law?

•Apartment with residential zoning: tourist use only with a permit

•Accommodation use: permitted, but usually commercial and subject to conditions

•Special uses must be reviewed by the building authority

7. Tips for legal Airbnb rentals in Vienna

•Clarify the zoning designation of your property

•Register a trade if you rent out regularly

•Pay the tourism levy correctly

•Create a professional listing & communication

•Automate management with a partner like Arbio

Conclusion: Airbnb in Vienna – succeed with structure and know-how

Vienna offers strong demand, but also clear rules of the game. Those who address the legal requirements early on can use Airbnb profitably and legally. Professional support brings peace of mind and better occupancy rates.

This article is no substitute for legal advice, but it offers a solid introduction to the legal fundamentals for Airbnb hosts in Vienna. We'd be glad to advise you!