The Namibia Tourism Board has warned that it is unlawful to offer overnight accommodation without being registered, and that offenders will face criminal charges under the Namibia Tourism Board Act.
In a public notice, the NTB says the act is clear that it is an offence for any person to provide accommodation in an establishment that is not registered under Section 20.
On conviction, offenders may be fined up to N$20 000, imprisoned for up to two years, or both.
The act requires any person intending to operate an accommodation establishment to apply to the NTB for registration before offering services to tourists or paying guests.
“Any person who provides accommodation to a tourist in an accommodation establishment that is not registered under Section 20 commits an offence and shall on conviction be liable to a fine not exceeding N$20 000 or to imprisonment not exceeding two years or to both such fine and such imprisonment,” the notice reads.
The board warns that failure to comply would lead to legal action.
“ . . . including criminal proceedings.”
The notice extends the requirement to people renting out rooms, homes or other spaces through online platforms, bringing informal short-term rentals under formal tourism regulation.
It means homeowners who occasionally host paying guests will also be required to register in the same way as guest houses and other accommodation establishments.
The NTB says the registration requirement applies to all accommodation providers, regardless of size or platform used.
The board says it expects all operators to comply within the set time frame as part of ensuring adherence to tourism laws in Namibia.
