Introduction

The U.S. Virgin Islands, with its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant culture, has become a top destination for travelers seeking a tropical paradise. Popular destinations such as St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix offer a variety of vacation rentals and short-term accommodations, providing visitors with unique and memorable stays. In 2023, the short-term rental market significantly impacted the local economy, contributing substantial revenue to the government through tourism-related taxes. Platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo are the go-to choices for listing these accommodations, connecting visitors to the best that the U.S. Virgin Islands has to offer. The rise of short-term rentals has not only boosted tourism but also provided local homeowners with lucrative opportunities to share their slice of paradise with the world.

Overview

Overview

There are quite many Island-wide short-term rental associations online that you may consider joining, but you are not mandated to join any of the associations. The various associations are;

US Virgin Islands Vacation Rental Owners and Managers

National Short-Term Rental Association

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What are short Term Rentals in the Country?

In the United States Virgin Islands, a short-term rental is regarded as an establishment that primarily specializes in renting out holiday houses, condos, or villas to visitors for stays of less than 90 days.

Is there any National Registration Requirement or Permit?

There is an island-wide permit and registration requirement for short-term rental owners in the United States Virgin Islands. You are required to apply for either short-term rental licenses A or B, depending on the number of persons you can accommodate.

The first license, “Short Term Rental A,” is for properties that can accommodate five or more persons and costs $260 per year, according to the news release.

The second license, “Short Term Rental B,” is for properties that can accommodate up to four persons and cost $195 per year.

The licenses can be obtained at the Department of Licensing and Consumer Affairs.

The application may require a local police record check, zoning approval, and a fire inspection, just like the licenses for hotels and guest houses.

This license must be renewed annually.

Are there National Rules or Regulations Governing Short-Term Rentals in the Country?

There is no island-wide rule regarding short-term rental in the United States Virgin Islands instead, individual islands may create laws such as the rental agreement for villas and registration requirements to govern the rental of residential units.

Health and Safety standards, as well as noise restrictions, may be put in place during the registration. etc.

Is there any National Tax that affects short-term rental?

Island-wide taxes that affect short-term rental, include the 12.5% room occupancy tax, which hosts must collect from guests and remit to the authority if they do not advertise and accept bookings on online platforms such as Airbnb. The 5% gross receipt and rental income tax may also apply to short-term rental income, although there is generally an exemption for the first $9,000 of gross receipts per month; however, the taxpayer should file a yearly form 720-B.

You must check with the island where your rental property is located, as there may be a tax that you are required to pay from your rental income to the authority.

Are there any Permits, Licenses, or Registrations for Short-term Rentals in the Country?

The first license, “Short Term Rental A,” is for properties that can accommodate five or more persons and costs $260 per year, according to the news release.

The second license, “Short Term Rental B,” is for properties that can accommodate up to four persons and cost $195 per year.

The licenses can be obtained at the Department of Licensing and Consumer Affairs.

The application may require a local police record check, zoning approval, and a fire inspection, just like the licenses for hotels and guest houses.

This license must be renewed annually.

Is there any National Association for STR owners in the Country?

There are quite many Island-wide short-term rental associations online that you may consider joining, but you are not mandated to join any of the associations. The various associations are;

US Virgin Islands Vacation Rental Owners and Managers

National Short-Term Rental Association

Disclaimer

Lodge compliance is not a licensed tax or financial advisor. Therefore nothing in the above article should be construed as tax, legal, or financial advice. Contact your local tax office for information regarding your personal circumstance.

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