Airbnb Cancellation Policy changes (1 October, 2025)

Deprecation of 'Strict' cancellation policy

Airbnb deprecates the 'Strict' cancellation policy for all users (with a few exceptions). After the deprecation, it will not be possible to choose the 'Strict' cancellation policy again. Users not eligible to use the 'Strict' option should change their selection in Rentals United. Eligible hosts have been contacted by Airbnb and given the opportunity to opt-out existing listings from this change. For more details, visit Airbnb Help Centre.

  • The changes take effect on October 1.

  • Action required: Switch to the 'Firm' cancellation policy if you are not eligible to use the 'Strict' option

 

Switch to the 'Firm' cancellation policy

If you are not eligible to use the 'Strict' cancellation policy, you need to change your cancellation policy settings. Otherwise, you will see an 'Invalid cancellation policy' error in the Property Settings. Make sure your listings now use the 'Firm' cancellation policy (or another).

The cancellation policy terms differ depending on the length of stay or the property's location and you can refer to this Airbnb Help Centre article for details about the cancellation policies and applied fees.

 

  1. Go to Airbnb Channel Settings.

  2. Unfold the Cancellation Policy section. Select one of the cancellation policies available in the dropdown list.

  3. Click Save.

 

The 'Strict' cancellation policy will remain available to select in Airbnb Channel Settings in Rentals United (see here). If the 'Strict' cancellation policy is selected by property managers who are not eligible, you will see an 'Invalid cancellation policy' error in the Property Settings.In this case, choose another cancellation policy. Consider selecting the 'Firm' option.

 

I am eligible to use the 'Strict' option

You are allowed to use the 'Strict' cancellation policy in Airbnb Channel Settings in Rentals United (see here) until you manually change it to another cancellation policy. After you change it, you will not be able to choose this option again as Airbnb will reject your listing.

24-hours grace period

All standard cancellation policies for shorter stays (less than 28 nights) will include a 24-hour cancellation period allowing guests to cancel for a full refund including taxes for up to 24 hours after the reservation is confirmed, as long as the reservation was confirmed at least 7 days before check-in (based on the listing’s local time with a few exceptions).

  • The changes take effect on October 1.

  • No action required: Note that the reservation cancellations will be processed in two ways, depending on the booking time (before and after October 1).

 

Bookings made before October 1 Bookings made on or after October 1

Guests are allowed a full refund including taxes for up to 24 hours after the reservation is confirmed.

Guests are allowed a refund as specified in the cancellation policy only.