In Cape Verde, short-term rentals are referred to as “Alojamento Local” in Portuguese, which translates to “local accommodation” in English. These rentals are defined as furnished accommodations offered to tourists and other temporary guests for stays typically shorter than 30 days. The term encompasses various types of properties, including apartments, villas, guesthouses, and individual rooms.
On popular booking platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com, short-term rentals in Cape Verde are often categorized as “vacation rentals,” “holiday homes,” or “guest accommodations.” According to Cape Verde’s tourism and housing regulations, Alojamento Local properties must be registered with local municipal councils and adhere to specific operational guidelines to ensure guest safety and comfort.
The rise of Alojamento Local in Cape Verde has been fueled by its affordability and flexibility compared to traditional hotels. However, the government has implemented measures to regulate the sector, requiring operators to obtain licenses and maintain detailed records of guests. These efforts aim to enhance the quality of accommodations while promoting sustainable tourism practices across the archipelago.

In Cape Verde, subletting properties for short-term rental purposes is generally legal, provided the tenant obtains explicit permission from the property owner. Subletting without the owner’s consent or in violation of the lease agreement can lead to legal disputes and potential eviction. It is recommended that tenants wishing to operate Alojamento Local properties consult their landlords and secure written approval.
Additionally, tenants must ensure that the property is registered with the local municipal council as Alojamento Local and that they adhere to all operational regulations. This includes paying the required taxes and maintaining accurate guest records. Some municipalities may impose additional restrictions on subletting, particularly in areas with high tourism demand or housing shortages.
Platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com often remind subletting operators to verify their legal rights before listing properties. This approach helps prevent unauthorized rentals and promotes compliance with local laws.

In Cape Verde, the length of stay for guests in accommodations is primarily determined by the terms set by the accommodation providers and the visa regulations applicable to the guests. The government does not impose specific regulations on the duration of guest stays within accommodations.
For visitors, the standard visa policy allows for stays of up to 30 days without a visa. To stay longer, travelers must comply with the Cape Verdean government's entry requirements, which may include obtaining a visa or extending their stay through appropriate channels.
Accommodation providers should ensure that their operations comply with local laws and regulations, including any licensing requirements and guest registration procedures. It's advisable for operators to consult with local authorities or legal experts to ensure full compliance with all applicable laws.

Cape Verde has established a regulatory framework governing short-term rentals under the Alojamento Local (AL) system. All short-term rental properties must be registered with the local municipal council and comply with health, safety, and zoning laws.
The regulations require hosts to maintain guest records, adhere to consumer protection laws, and comply with local tax obligations. Additionally, the government has been exploring digital platform regulations to hold online rental services accountable for ensuring that properties listed comply with national laws.

In Cape Verde, mandatory registration with the local municipal council is required to operate short-term rentals, known as "Alojamento Local," ensuring adherence to national tourism laws. The registration process involves multiple essential steps. Firstly, hosts must select a business structure and register their business name at the Chamber of Commerce, a process costing approximately CVE 20,000 and typically completed within two days. Subsequently, obtaining a Tax Identification Number (NIF) from the DGCI and establishing a business bank account are necessary. Licensing includes securing both a Municipal License (required in Praia) and a hospitality-specific Activity License. Registration with the national Social Security system for the business and any employees is also mandatory. Crucially, accommodations must meet local health, safety, and building standards. Required registration documents include identification, proof of address, property ownership or lease documentation, the NIF certificate, a business plan detailing operations, and Health and Safety Compliance Certificates. A registration fee, varying by property specifics, is applicable. Upon successful application, a registration number is issued and must be displayed. Failure to register can result in penalties, including fines and potential suspension of operations. Cape Verde enforces these measures to regulate the growing STR market, maintain tourism service quality, and promote fair competition among accommodation providers.

Currently, there is no specific national association for short-term rental operators in Cape Verde. However, the tourism sector is regulated by the Instituto do Turismo de Cabo Verde, the public institute responsible for overseeing tourism activities in the country. For guidance and information on operating short-term rentals, you may consider contacting them through their official Facebook page:
Additionally, the Cape Verdean Institute for Quality Management and Intellectual Property (IGQPI) has established standards for small tourist accommodations, which may be relevant to short-term rental operators.
While there isn't a dedicated association for short-term rental operators, these organizations can provide valuable resources and guidance to help you navigate the regulatory landscape in Cape Verde.