The Namibia Tourism Board (NTB) has issued a firm directive to all accommodation providers operating through platforms like Airbnb, warning that unregistered establishments must comply with the Namibia Tourism Board Act of 2000 or face legal consequences.
Under Section 20 of the Act, anyone offering paid overnight accommodation is required to register with the NTB before providing services. The board has made it clear that failing to do so is unlawful and punishable by law.
Deadline for Compliance Set for April 2025
In an official statement, the NTB has urged all individuals renting out accommodation via Airbnb and similar platforms to ensure compliance by 30th April 2025.
“Hosting paying guests without registration is unlawful and punishable by law,” the NTB stated.
Failure to register by the deadline will result in legal action, including potential criminal proceedings against non-compliant operators.
Ensuring Fair Play in Namibia’s Tourism Industry
The NTB’s crackdown is part of a broader effort to regulate the accommodation sector, ensuring that all operators meet the same legal and quality standards. By enforcing registration, the board aims to protect tourists, uphold service standards, and create a fair business environment for all accommodation providers.