In Papua New Guinea, short-term rentals are commonly referred to as "tourist accommodations" or "holiday stays." Locally, English is the main language of government and commerce. In most everyday contexts the most widely spoken language is Tok Pisin (“Pidgin Language”; also called Melanesian Pidgin or Neo-Melanesian) in Tok Pisin, "haus pasindia" (literally "passenger house") or simply "rum" (room) might be used to refer to short-term accommodations.

they may be associated with traditional homestays, bungalows, or guesthouses, reflecting PNG's emphasis on community-based tourism. STRs are defined as accommodations leased for less than 30 consecutive days, ranging from individual rooms in private homes to fully furnished houses. Platforms like Airbnb and Agoda use terms like "vacation rentals" and "holiday accommodations" to list properties, offering both modern and culturally immersive options.

Subletting is not explicitly addressed under PNG's housing laws, leaving it in a legal gray area. Tenants looking to operate STRs must consult their lease agreements and obtain written permission from landlords. Engaging in subletting without consent may result in eviction or legal disputes.

Tenants may sublet the rental property with the landlord's permission, unless the lease agreement prohibits subletting. The tenant remains responsible for the sublessee's actions and adherence to the terms of the lease.

There is no nationwide restriction on the maximum length of stay for STRs in PNG. However, rentals are typically offered for periods of 30 days to cater to tourists and transient guests.

The typical lease term in Papua New Guinea is one year, although shorter or longer terms may be negotiated depending on the landlord's flexibility and the tenant's needs. Any agreements exceeding this period may be subject to long-term lease regulations under local housing laws.

In Papua New Guinea (PNG), operating a short-term rental (STR) requires compliance with several national registration and permit requirements. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process:

Currently, there is no national association exclusively representing short-term rental operators in Papua New Guinea. Operators can seek support from the