lodge compliance

Holiday Rentals Laws in Papua New Guinea

Holiday Rentals Laws in Papua New Guinea

Papua New Guinea

Introduction
Introduction to Holiday Rentals in Papua New Guinea

Imagine stepping into the unspoiled beauty of Papua New Guinea (PNG), a country famed for its vibrant cultures, dramatic landscapes, and world-class diving spots like Kimbe Bay and Tufi. With over 600 islands and rich biodiversity, PNG attracts adventure enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike. While the short-term rental (STR) market is emerging in the country, its regulatory framework is not as established as in other regions, with a mix of national guidelines and local customs influencing operations. Popular platforms such as Airbnb and

Overview

Imagine stepping into the unspoiled beauty of Papua New Guinea (PNG), a country famed for its vibrant cultures, dramatic landscapes, and world-class diving spots like Kimbe Bay and Tufi. With over 600 islands and rich biodiversity, PNG attracts adventure enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike. While the short-term rental (STR) market is emerging in the country, its regulatory framework is not as established as in other regions, with a mix of national guidelines and local customs influencing operations. Popular platforms such as Airbnb and

Property
Overview

Currently, there is no national association exclusively representing short-term rental operators in Papua New Guinea. Operators can seek support from the

Property
Interested in learning more about this country? Please complete the form below.

Lodge Compliance may contact me about products and news. I understand I can change my preferences at any time per Lodge Compliance’s Privacy Policy.

Awesome! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
short term rentals
What is Holiday Rentals in Papua New Guinea?
What are short Term Rentals in the Country?

In Papua New Guinea, short-term rentals are commonly referred to as "tourist accommodations" or "holiday stays." Locally, English is the main language of government and commerce. In most everyday contexts the most widely spoken language is Tok Pisin (“Pidgin Language”; also called Melanesian Pidgin or Neo-Melanesian) in Tok Pisin, "haus pasindia" (literally "passenger house") or simply "rum" (room) might be used to refer to short-term accommodations.

they may be associated with traditional homestays, bungalows, or guesthouses, reflecting PNG's emphasis on community-based tourism. STRs are defined as accommodations leased for less than 30 consecutive days, ranging from individual rooms in private homes to fully furnished houses. Platforms like Airbnb and Agoda use terms like "vacation rentals" and "holiday accommodations" to list properties, offering both modern and culturally immersive options.

Is Subletting Legal?
Is Subletting Legal in Papua New Guinea?

Subletting is not explicitly addressed under PNG's housing laws, leaving it in a legal gray area. Tenants looking to operate STRs must consult their lease agreements and obtain written permission from landlords. Engaging in subletting without consent may result in eviction or legal disputes.

Tenants may sublet the rental property with the landlord's permission, unless the lease agreement prohibits subletting. The tenant remains responsible for the sublessee's actions and adherence to the terms of the lease.

National Association for STR Owners
What is the maximum length of stay in Papua New Guinea?
What is the maximum length of stay?

There is no nationwide restriction on the maximum length of stay for STRs in PNG. However, rentals are typically offered for periods of 30 days to cater to tourists and transient guests.

The typical lease term in Papua New Guinea is one year, although shorter or longer terms may be negotiated depending on the landlord's flexibility and the tenant's needs. Any agreements exceeding this period may be subject to long-term lease regulations under local housing laws.

Is there any National Registration Requirement or Permit?

In Papua New Guinea (PNG), operating a short-term rental (STR) requires compliance with several national registration and permit requirements. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process:

Is there a need for Permission from Landlord/Local Council/Neighbors?

In Papua New Guinea, the need for permission to operate short-term rentals breaks down as follows depending on the property's ownership and location:

Is Short-term rental Income taxable?

Yes, income earned from STRs is taxable under Papua New Guinea’s tax laws:

Is there any National Tourism Fund or Tourist Tax?

While there is no standalone

Is there any Guest Registration and Reporting Requirement?

In Papua New Guinea, there are no specific

Is there any National Health and Safety Requirements?

While Papua New Guinea doesn't have specific health and safety regulations

Is there any Platform Accountability Requirement?

No specific laws mandate platform accountability for short-term rentals in Papua New Guinea. However, platforms like Airbnb and

Is there any Anti-Discrimination Law?

In Papua New Guinea, while there are no specific anti-discrimination laws targeted at the

Is there any Data Sharing Requirements?

There are currently no national regulations requiring short-term rental platforms to share operational or guest data with the Papua New Guinea government. However, guest details must be reported directly by hosts to immigration and local authorities.

Is there any National Insurance Requirement?

While Papua New Guinea doesn't have specific national insurance requirements

Is there any National Zoning law/Cultural Heritage law?

In Papua New Guinea, there are no specific

Is there any Environmental Regulations that affects STR?

Short-term rental operators in PNG must adhere to general environmental laws, such as the

Is there any National Tenant Protection Law?

There is no specific

Is there any Reporting Requirements for Foreigners?

In Papua New Guinea, there are no specific

Is there any Digital Platform Regulation Compliance?

Currently, there are

Is there any Consumer Protection Law that affect STR?

There are no specific consumer protection laws targeting short-term rentals in Papua New Guinea. However, general consumer laws require operators to honor contracts, provide accurate property descriptions, and ensure fair pricing.

In Papua New Guinea, there are

Is there any Law that applies to Non-resident Owners?

Non-resident owners operating short-term rentals in Papua New Guinea must comply with general laws governing property ownership, taxation, and business registration. They are required to register their rental operations with the

Is there any classification of STR in the country?

In Papua New Guinea (PNG), there is no formal nationwide classification system for short-term rentals. However, properties used for short-term accommodation are typically categorized informally based on their type, features, and intended use. Here are the common classifications:

Are there Special National Event Regulations?

In Papua New Guinea, there are

Is there any Penalty for Violating National Rules?

Failure to comply with national or local STR regulations can lead to:

Are there National Rules or Regulations Governing Short-Term Rentals in Papua New Guinea?
Are there National Rules or Regulations Governing Short-Term Rentals in the Country?
Is there any National Tax that affects short-term rental?
permits, license
Are there any Permits, Licenses, or Registrations for Holiday Rentals in Papua New Guinea?
Are there any Permits, Licenses, or Registrations for Short-term Rentals in the Country?

In Papua New Guinea (PNG), operating a short-term rental (STR) requires compliance with several national registration and permit requirements. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process:

Is there any National Association for Holiday Rentals owners in Papua New Guinea?
Is there any National Association for STR owners in the Country?

Currently, there is no national association exclusively representing short-term rental operators in Papua New Guinea. Operators can seek support from the

National Association for STR Owners

Disclaimer

Lodge compliance is not a licensed tax or financial advisor. Therefore nothing in the above article should be construed as tax, legal, or financial advice. Contact your local tax office for information regarding your personal circumstance.

Stay Compliant with Ease

Access the tools you need to stay compliant and grow your lodging business effortlessly. With Lodge Compliance, navigating regulations has never been easier.

Get Access