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San Juan del Sur

Rivas Department · Nicaragua
Active
Last updated: 2026-07-30  ·  Last verified: 2026-06-24  ·  Region: International

At a Glance — San Juan del Sur Airbnb & STR Rules

RuleDetails
Regulatory StatusPermitted with registration
Permit / License RequiredYes — INTUR Registration
Tax Rate15% VAT plus municipal tax
Permit FeeModerate registration fees
PenaltiesFines for unregistered tourist lodging
Primary Residence RequiredNo
Browse all 2 STR regulations in Nicaragua →

San Juan del Sur Airbnb & Vacation Rental Regulation Overview

San Juan del Sur Short-Term Rental Regulations Overview

Short-term rental operations in San Juan del Sur, Rivas Department are permitted under an active regulatory framework as of 2026. Hosts operating on Airbnb, VRBO, or other vacation rental platforms must obtain proper licensing: Yes — INTUR Registration. The associated permit fees are Moderate registration fees.

Tax Requirements for Airbnb Hosts in San Juan del Sur

Short-term rental operators in San Juan del Sur should be aware of these tax obligations: 15% VAT plus municipal tax.

Hosting Rules and Restrictions in San Juan del Sur

Key operational rules for vacation rental hosts in San Juan del Sur include: Primary residence requirement: No.

Zoning and Location Requirements in San Juan del Sur

Zoning considerations for short-term rentals in San Juan del Sur: Allowed in residential/tourist coastal zones. Insurance: Recommended.

Penalties for Non-Compliance in San Juan del Sur

Hosts who fail to comply with San Juan del Sur's short-term rental regulations may face enforcement action. Fines for unregistered tourist lodging.

Full Regulatory Details

Regulatory Status
Active
License / Registration
Yes — INTUR Registration
Tax Registration
Yes
Permit Fee
Moderate registration fees
Primary Residence Rule
No
Tax Rate
15% VAT plus municipal tax
Zoning Restrictions
Allowed in residential/tourist coastal zones
Insurance Required
Recommended
Compliance Notes
Vacation rentals must register with the Instituto Nicaragüense de Turismo (INTUR) and secure an inspection certificate.
Effective Date
Active
Key Notes
INTUR registration and inspection certificate required.
Penalties
Fines for unregistered tourist lodging
Additional Context
San Juan del Sur is the principal beach tourism destination in Nicaragua.
Sources
INTUR Tourist Registry Guidelines 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Airbnb legal in San Juan del Sur?

Yes, Airbnb and short-term rentals are legal in San Juan del Sur with proper registration and permits. Vacation rentals must register with the Instituto Nicaragüense de Turismo (INTUR) and secure an inspection certificate.

Do you need a permit for Airbnb in San Juan del Sur?

Yes. San Juan del Sur requires the following for short-term rental operation: Yes — INTUR Registration.

What taxes apply to short-term rentals in San Juan del Sur?

Short-term rental hosts in San Juan del Sur are subject to the following tax obligations: 15% VAT plus municipal tax.

What are the penalties for illegal Airbnb hosting in San Juan del Sur?

Hosts who operate without proper permits in San Juan del Sur may face enforcement. Fines for unregistered tourist lodging.

What are the key STR compliance requirements in San Juan del Sur?

INTUR registration and inspection certificate required.

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