Can I rent my Finland property on Airbnb?

Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Finland Property Pack

Everything you need to know before buying real estate is included in our Finland Property Pack

Who is the author of this content?

INVESTROPA

A team specialized in real estate investing in European countries

We are a team of financial experts, legal professionals, developers, and local real estate specialists dedicated to helping people like you avoid mistakes when investing in real estate in a foreign place, particularly in Finland. If you'd like to learn more about us, you can check our presentation page.

How this content was created 🔎📝

At INVESTROPA, we explore the Finnish real estate market every day. Our team doesn't just analyze data from a distance—we're actively engaging with local realtors, investors, and property managers in cities like Helsinki, Tampere, and Turku. This hands-on approach allows us to gain a deep understanding of the market from the inside out.

These observations are originally based on what we've learned through these conversations and our observations. But it was not enough. To back them up, we also needed to rely on trusted resources

We prioritize accuracy and authority. Trends lacking solid data or expert validation were excluded.

Trustworthiness is central to our work. Every source and citation is clearly listed, ensuring transparency. A writing AI-powered tool was used solely to refine readability and engagement.

To make the information accessible, our team designed custom infographics that clarify key points. We hope you will like them! All illustrations and media were created in-house and added manually.

Do I have the legal right to rent my property on Airbnb in Finland?

Yes, you have the legal right to rent your property on Airbnb in Finland, but significant regulatory changes are coming into effect.

Starting January 2026, Finland will implement a strict 90-day annual limit for investment properties used for short-term rentals (defined as stays shorter than 4 weeks). This regulation specifically targets properties where the owner doesn't reside, affecting many investment property owners who rely on Airbnb income.

Owner-occupied properties enjoy more flexibility under the new regulations. If you live in the property you're renting out, you can continue hosting with fewer restrictions, though you'll still need to comply with local municipal rules and building regulations.

Professional or regular hosting activities require municipal permits, particularly when you don't reside at the property. The distinction between occasional hosting and professional hosting will determine which regulations apply to your situation.

It's something we develop in our Finland property pack.

Are there specific regulations for short-term rentals in my city or region?

Yes, Finnish municipalities are implementing city-specific regulations for short-term rentals, with Helsinki leading the way with comprehensive local rules.

Helsinki has introduced permit requirements for professional hosts, especially those who don't live in the rental property. The city requires hosts to obtain municipal approval before engaging in regular short-term rental activities, with applications reviewed based on zoning compliance and building regulations.

Other major Finnish cities like Tampere, Turku, and Espoo are developing similar regulatory frameworks. Each municipality has the authority to set its own rules regarding permit requirements, duration limits, and operational standards for short-term rentals.

Housing companies and building associations also maintain their own rules that can restrict or prohibit short-term rentals. You must review your property's housing company agreements and community rules before starting any Airbnb operations, as violations can result in fines or legal action.

Municipal regulations typically cover noise management, waste disposal, visitor access, and building safety standards specific to short-term rental operations.

What are the local zoning laws regarding short-term rentals?

Finnish zoning laws can restrict which properties are eligible for short-term rental use, particularly in residential areas designated solely for long-term housing.

Properties in residential zones (marked as "A" in Finnish zoning plans) may face restrictions when used repeatedly for short-term rentals. If authorities determine that your short-term rental activity constitutes commercial accommodation rather than occasional rental, you may need to apply for a change in permitted use.

Mixed-use zones and commercial areas typically offer more flexibility for short-term rental operations. However, each municipality interprets zoning laws differently, and some require specific permits even in more permissive zones.

Building age and type also influence zoning compliance. Newer residential buildings often have stricter community rules regarding short-term rentals, while older properties in city centers may have more lenient regulations.

Multiple listings or frequent short-term rental activity can trigger zoning law scrutiny, potentially requiring your property to be reclassified as commercial accommodation with additional regulatory requirements.

Do I need a special permit or license to list my property on Airbnb?

You need a special municipal permit for professional or regular short-term rental activity, particularly if you don't reside at the property or exceed the allowed hosting days.

Occasional rental activities (typically under 90 days per year for owner-occupied properties) usually don't require special licensing, but this varies by municipality. Helsinki and other major cities are implementing stricter permit requirements regardless of hosting frequency.

The permit application process involves submitting documentation about your property, insurance coverage, safety measures, and compliance with local building codes. Municipal authorities review applications based on zoning compliance, building safety, and community impact considerations.

Permit fees vary by municipality, typically ranging from €100 to €500 annually. Some cities also require permit renewals with regular compliance inspections.

Operating without required permits can result in fines up to €10,000 and orders to cease short-term rental activities. Always check with your local municipality before listing your property on Airbnb.

Are there any specific tax obligations I need to be aware of for renting out my property?

Yes, Finland has specific tax obligations for Airbnb rental income that you must declare on your annual tax return.

All rental income from Airbnb must be reported as taxable income to the Finnish Tax Administration (Vero). This income is typically classified as capital income and taxed at rates ranging from 30% to 34%, depending on your total income level.

If your annual rental revenue exceeds €15,000, you must register for VAT (Value Added Tax) and charge 10% VAT on your rental services. This threshold includes all rental income, not just Airbnb earnings.

You can deduct legitimate expenses related to your rental activity, including cleaning costs, repairs, insurance premiums, property maintenance, utilities, and depreciation. Keep detailed records of all expenses and receipts for tax purposes.

Foreign property owners must also comply with Finnish tax obligations and may need to obtain a Finnish Tax Identification Number (TIN) for proper tax reporting and Airbnb payment processing.

How much can I charge per night for my property, and how does this compare to other similar listings?

Helsinki Airbnb properties typically charge between €70-€150 per night for standard apartments, with pricing varying significantly based on location, size, and amenities.

Property Type	Helsinki Average (€/night)	Tampere Average (€/night)
Studio Apartment	€50-€80	€40-€65
1-Bedroom Apartment	€70-€110	€55-€85
2-Bedroom Apartment	€100-€160	€75-€120
3-Bedroom Apartment	€140-€220	€100-€160
Luxury Apartment	€200-€400	€150-€280
City Center Premium	€180-€350	€130-€240
Suburban Property	€60-€100	€45-€75

Seasonal demand significantly affects pricing, with summer months (June-August) commanding premium rates up to 40% higher than winter periods. December and holiday periods also see increased demand and pricing.

Properties with unique features like saunas, waterfront views, or city center locations can charge 20-50% above average market rates. Modern amenities, fast WiFi, and professional photography also justify higher pricing.

What are the rules around rental duration for Airbnb in Finland?

Finland distinguishes between short-term rentals (under 4 weeks) and long-term rentals, with different regulations applying to each category.

Short-term rentals are subject to the new 90-day annual limit for investment properties starting January 2026. This cap applies to cumulative days, not individual bookings, meaning you cannot exceed 90 total rental days per calendar year.

Owner-occupied properties have more flexible duration rules, though specific limits vary by municipality. Some cities allow up to 120-150 days annually for owner-occupied short-term rentals.

Stays exceeding 4 weeks (28 days) are considered regular residential leases under Finnish housing law, subject to different regulations and tenant protection rules. These longer stays don't count toward your short-term rental day limits.

Municipalities can impose stricter duration limits than national regulations. Always check local rules, as some cities restrict short-term rentals to maximum 7-14 day stays per booking.

What kind of insurance coverage do I need for renting my property?

You need specialized short-term rental insurance coverage, as standard homeowner's insurance typically excludes guest-related damages and commercial rental activities.

1. **Liability Insurance**: Covers injuries to guests and third-party property damage, with minimum coverage of €500,000 recommended for short-term rentals. 2. **Property Damage Coverage**: Protects against guest-caused damage to furniture, appliances, and property fixtures beyond normal wear and tear. 3. **Business Interruption Insurance**: Compensates for lost rental income if your property becomes uninhabitable due to covered damages. 4. **Legal Expense Coverage**: Covers legal costs for disputes with guests, neighbors, or regulatory authorities related to your rental activity. 5. **Theft and Vandalism Protection**: Covers stolen or intentionally damaged items, including electronics, furniture, and personal belongings left for guest use.

Airbnb provides limited Host Protection Insurance up to €1 million, but this doesn't replace comprehensive insurance coverage. Most claims require extensive documentation and may not cover all types of damages.

Insurance premiums for short-term rental coverage typically cost 2-4 times more than standard homeowner's insurance, depending on property value, location, and coverage limits.

It's something we develop in our Finland property pack.

Are there any restrictions on the number of guests I can host at once?

We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Finland versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you're planning to invest there.

What is the process for handling deposits and payments through Airbnb?

Airbnb handles all payment processing and deposit collection through their secure platform, with specific procedures for Finnish hosts.

Guest payments are processed by Airbnb and transferred to your designated bank account approximately 24 hours after guest check-in. Finnish hosts can receive payments in euros to Finnish bank accounts, avoiding currency conversion fees.

Security deposits can be set through Airbnb's platform, typically ranging from €100-€500 depending on property value and risk assessment. Deposits are held by Airbnb and only charged to guests if damage claims are approved through their resolution process.

For damage claims, you must document issues with photos and submit claims within 14 days of guest checkout. Airbnb's resolution center mediates disputes between hosts and guests, with final decisions binding on both parties.

Finnish tax authorities require detailed records of all rental transactions. Airbnb provides annual tax documents, but you should maintain separate records of income and expenses for Finnish tax reporting.

How should I handle noise complaints or other disputes with neighbors?

Proactive communication and clear house rules are essential for preventing and managing neighbor disputes in Finnish residential buildings.

Finnish housing companies have strict noise regulations, typically prohibiting loud activities between 22:00-06:00 on weekdays and 23:00-08:00 on weekends. Communicate these rules clearly to guests and include them in your listing description.

Establish relationships with neighbors and building management before starting short-term rental activities. Provide your contact information for immediate communication about any guest-related issues.

Housing companies can impose fines or restrict your rental activities if guest behavior repeatedly disturbs other residents. Some housing companies vote to ban short-term rentals entirely, which would prevent your Airbnb operations.

Municipal authorities can suspend your hosting permit if noise complaints become frequent or severe. Maintain detailed records of guest communications and any measures taken to address complaints.

Are there any health and safety standards I need to follow to ensure my property is compliant?

Finnish municipalities require specific health and safety standards for short-term rental properties, with enhanced requirements for permitted operations.

1. **Fire Safety Equipment**: Install working smoke detectors in all bedrooms and common areas, provide fire extinguishers in kitchens, and ensure clear emergency exit routes. 2. **First Aid Supplies**: Maintain basic first aid kits accessible to guests, with emergency contact information displayed prominently. 3. **Carbon Monoxide Detection**: Install CO detectors if your property has gas appliances, fireplaces, or attached garages. 4. **Electrical Safety**: Ensure all electrical installations meet Finnish standards, with GFCI outlets in bathrooms and kitchens. 5. **Water Safety**: Maintain hot water temperature below 50°C to prevent scalding, ensure proper water pressure, and test water quality regularly.

Municipal permits often require safety inspections before approval, with annual renewal inspections in some cities. Professional hosting permits may require additional safety measures like emergency lighting and sprinkler systems.

Guest safety information must be provided in Finnish, Swedish, and English, including emergency numbers (112 for emergencies), building evacuation procedures, and local hospital locations.

It's something we develop in our Finland property pack.

Conclusion

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided.

Sources

1. Immodan - Airbnb Law Changes for Landlords
2. Airbtics - Airbnb Rules in Helsinki Finland
3. YLE - Finnish Broadcasting Company
4. Lodge Compliance - Finland Regulations
5. Short Term Rentalz - Finland Permits
6. Lieke Law Firm - Short-term Rental Rules Reform
7. Finnish Tax Administration - Rental Income
8. Helsinki Times - Airbnb Tax Obligations