The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) has introduced a new registration regime for short-term rentals in response to the significant rise in listings on platforms such as Airbnb, fuelled by local hosts, international investors and visitors.

The authority says over the past two years, “the GTA has diligently worked with Airbnb to regularise operations in Ghana”.

“This fruitful partnership has led to the creation of a Responsible Hosting Page for Ghana, providing crucial information and links for hosts. Notably, some Airbnb hosts have already completed the registration process, as Airbnb has included the information on their platform,” the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the GTA, Akwasi Agyeman, said in a statement.

Requirements

Mandatory requirements for registration, Mr Agyemang said, included a business registration certificate for facilities with four or more listings, and a Ghana Card for those with less than three listings.

During the registration process, facilities will receive a provisional licence valid for six months, renewable upon submission of outstanding documents, which may include a police clearance certificate, fire report, environmental health report and evidence of ownership.

The Registration Portal Requirements include the host’s name, a Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) tax identification number (TIN) and/or Ghana Card ID number, business registration certificate, email, phone number and listing address.

Facilities

“As the registration portal for short-term rentals prepares to launch, facilities will be required to apply through the GTA’s single window platform. Recognising the unique needs of short-term rentals, the GTA is also developing tailored standards to enhance the tourism experience and contribute to Ghana’s economic growth,” the statement emphasised.

"The introduction of this new registration regime marks a significant milestone in our efforts to create a structured and sustainable tourism ecosystem in Ghana.

By regularising short-term rentals, we are not only ensuring the safety and quality of accommodations but also fostering economic benefits and cultural exchange,” Mr Agyemang added.

The GTA’s initiatives aim to balance economic growth, cultural exchange and community involvement to further cement Ghana’s position as a desirable travel destination.