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Port Moresby

National Capital District · Papua New Guinea
Restricted
Last updated: 2026-07-30  ·  Last verified: 2026-06-24  ·  Region: International

At a Glance — Port Moresby Airbnb & STR Rules

RuleDetails
Regulatory StatusRestricted — rules apply
Permit / License RequiredYes — Business registration and hospitality/tourism classification
Tax RateSubject to standard personal/corporate income tax; no flat platform tax in place
Permit FeeVaries by license class
PenaltiesFines or closures of unregistered commercial rentals
Primary Residence RequiredNo
Occupancy LimitGenerally 2 guests per bedroom max
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Port Moresby Airbnb & Vacation Rental Regulation Overview

Port Moresby Short-Term Rental Regulations Overview

Short-term rentals in Port Moresby, National Capital District are allowed but subject to significant restrictions under local regulations as of 2026. Hosts operating on Airbnb, VRBO, or other vacation rental platforms must obtain proper licensing: Yes — Business registration and hospitality/tourism classification. The associated permit fees are Varies by license class.

Tax Requirements for Airbnb Hosts in Port Moresby

Short-term rental operators in Port Moresby should be aware of these tax obligations: Subject to standard personal/corporate income tax; no flat platform tax in place.

Hosting Rules and Restrictions in Port Moresby

Key operational rules for vacation rental hosts in Port Moresby include: Primary residence requirement: No. Occupancy limit: Generally 2 guests per bedroom max.

Zoning and Location Requirements in Port Moresby

Zoning considerations for short-term rentals in Port Moresby: Must comply with National Capital District (NCD) zoning laws; verify body corporate/compound bylaws. Insurance: Recommended.

Penalties for Non-Compliance in Port Moresby

Hosts who fail to comply with Port Moresby's short-term rental regulations may face enforcement action. Fines or closures of unregistered commercial rentals.

Full Regulatory Details

Regulatory Status
Restricted
License / Registration
Yes — Business registration and hospitality/tourism classification
Tax Registration
Yes
Permit Fee
Varies by license class
Primary Residence Rule
No
Occupancy Limit
Generally 2 guests per bedroom max
Tax Rate
Subject to standard personal/corporate income tax; no flat platform tax in place
Zoning Restrictions
Must comply with National Capital District (NCD) zoning laws; verify body corporate/compound bylaws
Insurance Required
Recommended
Compliance Notes
All STR operators must secure standard business licenses and comply with municipal/cantonal lodging registry rules in Port Moresby. Security compliance is strongly recommended due to local standards.
Effective Date
Active
Key Notes
Business registration, NCD zoning compliance, and security/safety reviews mandatory.
Penalties
Fines or closures of unregistered commercial rentals
Additional Context
Due to local security dynamics, high-end STRs are typically located within gated compounds or secured apartment complexes.
Sources
National Capital District Commission (NCDC) Papua New Guinea 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Airbnb legal in Port Moresby?

Airbnb and short-term rentals are legal in Port Moresby but subject to restrictions. Hosts must comply with local permit requirements and zoning rules. All STR operators must secure standard business licenses and comply with municipal/cantonal lodging registry rules in Port Moresby. Security compliance is strongly recommended due to local standards.

Do you need a permit for Airbnb in Port Moresby?

Yes. Port Moresby requires the following for short-term rental operation: Yes — Business registration and hospitality/tourism classification.

What taxes apply to short-term rentals in Port Moresby?

Short-term rental hosts in Port Moresby are subject to the following tax obligations: Subject to standard personal/corporate income tax; no flat platform tax in place.

What are the penalties for illegal Airbnb hosting in Port Moresby?

Hosts who operate without proper permits in Port Moresby may face enforcement. Fines or closures of unregistered commercial rentals.

What are the key STR compliance requirements in Port Moresby?

Business registration, NCD zoning compliance, and security/safety reviews mandatory.

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