New Short-Term Rental Regulations on Sal Island (2025): What Property Owners Need to Know
Navigating the Cape Verde Property Market
As of January 2025, Sal Island has introduced updated regulations for short-term holiday rentals, locally known as Alojamento Local. These changes are designed to improve transparency, safety, and regulatory compliance across Cape Verde’s rapidly growing vacation rental market.
Importantly, these new rules directly impact owners of property for sale in Cape Verde, particularly investors planning to generate rental income. Below, we summarise the key requirements and practical implications you need to be aware of.
For a more detailed breakdown, you can also explore our in-depth guide under Short-Term Rental Licensing – Sal on Simply Cape Verde.
Why the Alojamento Local Regulations Matter for Property Owners
Short-term rentals play a vital role in Sal’s tourism-driven economy. However, as demand has grown, authorities have introduced clearer rules to ensure quality standards, protect guests, and promote sustainable tourism.
As a result, understanding these regulations is essential whether you already own a property or are considering property for sale in Cape Verde as an investment opportunity.
Key Requirements for Short-Term Rental Properties
Mandatory Registration and Licensing
First and foremost, all properties used for short-term rentals must be officially registered with the local municipal council.
In addition:
- Owners must obtain a Unique Registry Number from the Land Registry
- This number must be clearly displayed on all rental listings
- Platforms such as Airbnb and Booking.com are required to show this registration number
Without proper registration, listings risk removal from online platforms.
Centralised Digital System (Ventanilla Única Digital)
To improve oversight and efficiency, the government has introduced a centralised digital platform, known as Ventanilla Única Digital.
This system:
- Is managed by the Ministry of Housing
- Coordinates data between landlords, rental platforms, and public authorities
- Simplifies compliance and communication for property owners
Consequently, managing short-term rentals is becoming more structured and transparent.
Compliance Deadline: What You Need to Know
Although the regulations came into force in January 2025, there is a transition period until July 2025.
During this time:
- Existing landlords must complete registration
- Rental platforms must update listings to reflect compliance
After July 2025, failure to comply may result in financial penalties or listing removals, making early action strongly advisable.
Operational Guidelines for Rental Property Owners
Business Structure and Tax Registration
In addition to property registration, hosts must formalise their rental activity as a business.
This involves:
- Selecting a business structure
- Registering the business name with the Chamber of Commerce
- Paying an approximate registration cost of CVE 20,000
- Completing the process within two working days
This step ensures proper taxation and legal operation of rental properties.
Guest Record Maintenance
Furthermore, all Alojamento Local operators must maintain detailed guest records.
This requirement helps to:
- Improve accommodation quality
- Support national security and tourism planning
- Encourage sustainable tourism practices
Therefore, proper record-keeping is now a legal obligation rather than a recommendation.
Permission for Subletting
Subletting for short-term rental purposes is permitted, provided specific conditions are met.
Tenants must:
- Obtain written permission from the property owner
- Ensure the property is registered as Alojamento Local
- Comply fully with all licensing and operational rules
Without owner consent, subletting is not legally valid.
Additional Considerations for Property Owners and Investors
Property Ownership in Cape Verde
One of the strongest attractions for international buyers is that foreigners can purchase property in Cape Verde on a freehold basis.
Notably:
- There is no legal distinction between citizens and non-citizens
- Annual property taxes apply and must be paid by owners
This makes property for sale in Cape Verde particularly appealing to overseas investors.
Condominium and Resort Rules
If your property is located within a resort or residential complex, additional rules may apply.
These often include:
- Mandatory condominium fees
- Restrictions or guidelines on short-term rentals
- Compliance with resort management policies
Before purchasing, it is essential to review these regulations carefully.
What This Means for Buyers of Property for Sale in Cape Verde
Overall, these new regulations provide greater clarity and protection for both owners and guests. While compliance requires some administrative effort, it also strengthens the long-term sustainability of the rental market on Sal Island.
For investors, this creates a more secure and professional environment—particularly important when evaluating property for sale in Cape Verde with rental income potential.
