Paraguay does not have a centralized national registration system specifically for short-term rentals. However, hosts may be required to:

• Register with Local Authorities: Some municipalities might require hosts to register their property as a rental accommodation.
• Obtain a Business License: If operating as a commercial enterprise, hosts may need to acquire a business license from the local government.
• Comply with SENATUR Regulations: The National Secretariat of Tourism may have guidelines or voluntary registration programs for accommodations catering to tourists.

Process and Requirements:

• Documentation: Proof of property ownership or lease agreement, identification documents, and possibly a business plan.
• Fees: Vary by municipality; hosts should check with local government offices for exact amounts.
• Inspections: Properties may need to pass safety and health inspections before receiving approval.

Hosts are encouraged to consult local authorities or legal professionals to ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements.

• Landlord Permission: If you are a tenant, you must obtain written consent from your landlord before offering the property as a short-term rental.
• Homeowners Association (HOA): If the property is within a condominium or a gated community, you may need approval from the HOA, as they might have rules restricting short-term rentals.
• Local Council: While not always mandatory, informing or registering with the local municipality can be beneficial and, in some areas, required.
• Neighbors: While not a legal requirement, maintaining good relations with neighbors is advisable to prevent potential disputes, especially concerning noise or security issues.

For years, Paraguay was an accidental tax haven. What we mean is that it was not a tax haven by design, but the government simply never introduced personal income taxes. However, this has changed in recent years, but the good news is that, as a resident with no local income, you are not liable to Paraguayan taxes and nobody will bother you. There is simply no culture of taxpaying in Paraguay. After years of postponement, a personal income tax was finally introduced in 2012, at the rate of 10%. This tax seems more of a token measure than anything else it is aimed at the Paraguayan upper-classes, who are, in any case, likely to structure their affairs so as to avoid paying. The tax does not apply to worldwide income it only applies to income generated in Paraguay. So, for example, if you own property in Paraguay and receive a rental income, or if you receive a salary from a local company, you are liable to pay income tax.

In Paraguay, short-term rental operators may be required to collect a tourist tax from guests, which contributes to the National Tourism Fund. This fund, overseen by the National Secretariat of Tourism (SENATUR), is used to support tourism infrastructure, cultural preservation, and local tourism development. The exact amount of this tax and whether it applies to all types of short-term rentals can vary by region, and hosts should verify the current requirements with SENATUR or local authorities to ensure compliance.

Yes, hosts in Paraguay are generally required to register and report guest information to the national authorities, particularly when accommodating foreign guests. The National Police and Immigration Department may request that hosts report details such as guest names, passport numbers, and duration of stay. Typically, this information must be provided within 24 hours of the guest’s arrival. Hosts can find more information on the reporting process by contacting the Ministry of Public Security or checking with local police stations.

Health and safety standards apply to all accommodation providers in Paraguay. Hosts must adhere to basic safety regulations, which include:

• Fire Safety: Properties should be equipped with fire extinguishers and smoke alarms.
• Building Safety: Properties must be structurally sound and meet local building codes.
• Sanitation: Facilities such as kitchens and bathrooms must be kept clean and sanitary.

While there is no stringent nationwide health code for short-term rentals, local authorities may inspect properties to ensure compliance. Hosts should check with municipal offices for any additional health and safety standards.

Currently, there is no specific mandate in Paraguay that requires online platforms to enforce national compliance for listings. However, platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com often encourage hosts to meet local legal standards as part of their terms of service. Hosts are responsible for ensuring their listings comply with all national laws and regulations independently. Platforms reserve the right to remove listings found to be in violation of Paraguayan laws if reported.

Paraguay enforces anti-discrimination laws designed to prevent discrimination based on race, religion, gender, nationality, or disability. While there are no specific regulations tailored to short-term rentals, hosts must comply with these general laws and treat all guests fairly and equitably. Hosts should review the Equal Opportunity Act and other relevant legislation to ensure they meet anti-discrimination standards. Many platforms also have policies in place to prevent discriminatory practices.

At present, no formal data-sharing mandate requires short-term rental platforms to report guest data to government authorities in Paraguay. However, should the authorities request specific data, platforms may be legally required to comply. Hosts are advised to maintain accurate records of their bookings and guest information in case of government audits or data requests.

Paraguayan law does not require hosts to have liability insurance for short-term rental properties; however, insurance is highly recommended. Liability insurance can cover potential risks, such as guest injuries or property damage. Hosts may explore insurance options to safeguard against legal and financial liabilities that may arise from renting their properties. Some platforms provide host protection programs, so checking for coverage options is advisable.

Yes, Paraguay has zoning regulations, and properties located within culturally or historically significant areas may face restrictions regarding commercial activities, including short-term rentals. SENATUR and local governments work to protect these areas, particularly in cities like Asunción and Encarnación where historic sites are prevalent. Hosts looking to operate in protected areas may need to obtain special permissions to ensure compliance with cultural preservation laws.

Paraguay encourages sustainable practices and may impose environmental regulations on properties, particularly those near protected areas, rivers, or natural reserves. Key areas of compliance include:

• Waste Management: Hosts should manage waste responsibly to minimize environmental impact.
• Water Conservation: Certain areas may have guidelines for water usage, especially during dry seasons.
• Energy Efficiency: Promoting energy-saving measures is encouraged but not strictly mandated.

Hosts can consult with the Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development for guidance on how to adopt eco-friendly practices.

Paraguay has tenant protection laws aimed at preventing the eviction of long-term tenants to make way for short-term rentals. The Paraguayan Civil Code protects long-term tenants, and landlords must follow due process if they wish to terminate a lease. Hosts who are landlords should review their tenant agreements and consult legal professionals to ensure compliance before transitioning to short-term rentals.

Yes, when hosting foreign guests, Paraguayan law requires that their arrival and departure details be reported to national immigration authorities. This involves:

• Timely Reporting: Guest information should be provided within 24 hours of arrival.
• Details to Report: Information typically includes name, nationality, passport number, and duration of stay.

Hosts can inquire with the Immigration Department for more details on reporting protocols.

As of now, no specific national law mandates digital platforms to verify host compliance with Paraguayan regulations before listing properties. Platforms like Airbnb may still set basic requirements for hosts, but the responsibility to comply with local laws ultimately falls on the host. Hosts should ensure they meet all Paraguayan legal obligations to avoid potential issues.

Paraguay’s consumer protection laws apply to all service providers, including short-term rentals. These laws require that rental agreements are fair, transparent, and accurately reflect the advertised amenities. Consumer rights protect guests against false advertising, hidden fees, and other unethical practices. Hosts must comply with these laws to ensure a positive guest experience and avoid legal repercussions.

Paraguay allows non-residents to own and rent property, but they must comply with all national regulations. Non-resident owners are subject to:

• Taxation Requirements: Non-residents must pay taxes on rental income earned in Paraguay.
• Property Management Requirements: Non-resident owners may need to hire a local representative or property manager.
• Reporting Obligations: Non-residents must adhere to all reporting and registration requirements.

Paraguay does not have a formal national classification system specifically for short-term rentals. Accommodations are generally categorized under broader hospitality sectors regulated by the National Secretariat of Tourism (Secretaría Nacional de Turismo - SENATUR). The primary categories include:

• Hotels (Hoteles): Traditional lodging establishments offering a range of services.
• Hostels (Hostales): Budget-friendly accommodations with shared facilities.
• Guesthouses (Pensiones): Smaller establishments, often family-run, offering basic amenities.
• Apartments (Apartamentos): Furnished units available for short or extended stays.

Short-term rentals typically fall under the "apartments" or "guesthouses" categories. While there aren't distinct rules exclusively for short-term rentals, operators must comply with general regulations applicable to hospitality businesses, such as safety standards, hygiene, and business licensing.

During major national events or holidays, such as Carnaval Encarnaceno or Independence Day, additional restrictions may apply to short-term rentals in Paraguay. Regulations can include:

• Stricter Guest Verification: Enhanced ID checks may be required during major events.
• Noise Restrictions: Noise ordinances are more strictly enforced during national celebrations.
• Curfews and Guest Limits: Limits on guest numbers or stricter curfews may be enforced.

These temporary measures are typically announced in advance by municipal authorities, and hosts should check for any special event regulations to ensure compliance.

Yes, non-compliance with applicable regulations can result in several penalties, including:

• Fines: Monetary penalties imposed by municipal or national authorities for operating without required licenses or permits.
• Closure Orders: Authorities may order the cessation of rental activities until compliance is achieved.
• Legal Action: Persistent violations can lead to lawsuits or other legal proceedings.
• Tax Penalties: Failure to report and pay taxes on rental income can result in fines, interest charges, and legal consequences.

Penalties vary based on the severity of the violation and the specific laws breached. Hosts should proactively comply with all legal obligations to avoid these repercussions.