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Deputies
approve law to regulate online hosting similar to
Airbnb
By the A.M. Costa Rica staff The deputies of the Economic Affairs Committee approved the law No. 20.865 which is the "Law for the regularization of non-traditional rentals and its intermediation through digital platforms," similar to the rentals of Airbnb. This bill has the goal that non-traditional rentals pay taxes on their services and thereby increase government revenue while regulating that commercial activity as well. The project would apply to all tourist rentals in homes, apartments, villas, chalets, and bungalows, among others as well as guaranteeing users security and protection when they purchase the service through the platform. The text approved contains adjustments related to the rights of the users and the obligations of the non-traditional rental service providers. Owners, for example, must be registered at the Costa Rican Institute of Tourism, and the Ministry of Finance at the General Directorate of Taxation, as well as paying the Municipal License tax, know as Patente Municipal, to obtain the right to offer rentals. According to Deputy Roberto Thompson, the project represents a major boost to the tourism sector. "There is a very important segment of people who are using this type of accommodation in Costa Rica, through this law, we are trying to regularize and establish taxes and guarantee minimum conditions." On Friday, the Chamber of Tourism, know as Canatur, celebrated the approval in the first round of votes for this law. “For the private sector, this step towards the regulation of lodging which is extremely important,” said Saray Valverde, president of Canatur. For several years, Canatur has requested for the regulation of this type of non-traditional lodging service. As A.M. Costa Rica reported on Feb., the Chamber of Hotels also requested the approval of the law. According to the Chamber, this law will generate more tax revenue for the government, will protect tourists, and will create a level playing field for competition. Regarding the issue of fair competition, the Chamber says that in the case of hotels, in addition to paying taxes, they must invest large capital to comply with specific rules and compliance to protect people with different abilities, while the informal hosting sites are not. ---------------------------- What other problems exist with unregulated in-home accommodations? We would like to know your thoughts on this story. Send your comments to: news@amcostarica.com |
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