In short: Airbnb's policy prohibits soliciting guests to complete an active reservation outside the platform; having an independent online presence that a guest finds on their own is a different matter. Always check the updated terms.
What the Off-Platform policy really says
Airbnb's policy prohibits actively soliciting a guest—during a conversation or a stay related to a booking made on Airbnb—to complete that specific transaction off-platform to avoid fees. It does not, however, prohibit having an independent online presence (website, social media, Google) that a future guest can discover on their own.
The difference between soliciting and being found
There is a substantial, often misunderstood difference between writing to an Airbnb guest 'book directly with me next time' (risky) and having a QR code visible on-site or a well-managed Google Business profile that the guest can discover and use on their own initiative for a future booking, without direct solicitation related to the current stay.
The real consequences of a violation
Airbnb can temporarily suspend or permanently deactivate a host account in the event of repeated violations of the Off-Platform policy, a risk that is disproportionate to the commission savings on a single booking.
The safest strategy: build, don't convert
Instead of trying to 'convert' a current Airbnb guest off-platform (risky), the most solid strategy is to build a direct presence over time (your own Google reviews, social media profile, website with a calendar) that captures future guests independently of Airbnb, without ever touching the current booking.
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A physical detail can be enough
A simple QR code left in the property, without any explicit message inviting the guest to bypass the platform for that stay, falls into the safe zone: the guest scans it on their own initiative if they wish—it is their choice, not a solicitation by the host.
What happens in practice when Airbnb detects a violation
Airbnb's detection system primarily analyzes the exchange of direct contact information (phone numbers, emails, external links) within the platform's messaging before a booking is confirmed: this is the most monitored behavior, not the mere existence of a host's website or social media profile elsewhere.
The difference between individual hosts and property managers
For a property manager with dozens of units, the risk of suspension weighs proportionally more than for a host with a single apartment: for this reason, those who manage a large portfolio should be even more rigorous in following the policy, given that the impact of an account block is multiplied across all properties linked to that account.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I have my own website?
Yes, an independent presence (website, social media, Google) is permitted. Do not use it to solicit guests during a booking received through the platform.
When should I suggest direct booking?
Use tools outside of the direct conversation, such as a QR code on-site. Check the current terms for Airbnb and Booking.
How do I calculate what I pay?
Use the Booking and Airbnb commission calculator.
How can I try it?
With a 14-day free trial. Discover the page for short-term rentals and B&Bs.
What to do today in 3 steps
- Read the updated platform terms.
- Create a website with direct booking capabilities.
- Place a visible QR code in your property.
Read also
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