How does CONFOTUR approval relate to my rental income tax?

CONFOTUR's exemptions attach to the 3% transfer tax and the 1% annual IPI, for the term the law provides to a qualifying project; rental earnings are assessed separately, and how the two meet on your purchase is a question for your attorney.

Do VRBO and Airbnb handle the taxes for me?

No. In the Dominican Republic, the property owner is legally responsible for declaring and paying the 18% ITBIS (VAT) on short-term rental income. Booking platforms do not remit this tax on the host's behalf.

Can I still use my condo if it's in the rental program?

Yes. The property is yours. The optional rental program is a service for owners who wish to generate income. The specific terms for owner usage, including any blackout dates or booking procedures, will be outlined in your management agreement.

What is the difference between the 18% ITBIS and the 27% withholding tax?

ITBIS is a value-added tax applied to the service of providing tourist accommodation. The 27% withholding tax is the income tax applied to the gross earnings for non-resident owners. Both are generally applicable to short-term rental income, and your Dominican accountant can provide specific guidance.

Rental & management

Listing Your Bonita Residence on VRBO and Airbnb

Published August 30, 2026 5 min read

Yes, as an owner at Bonita Cap Cana, you can list your residence on short-term rental platforms like VRBO and Airbnb to generate income. Dominican law permits short-term rentals, and at Bonita, owners have the flexibility to rent out their property. This guide outlines the key tax considerations for non-resident owners and the choice between self-management and professional services.

What are my options for managing a rental property at Bonita?

Owners have two primary paths for managing their rental property: managing it themselves or hiring a professional service. The choice depends on your location, time, and desired level of involvement.

1. Self-Management: This approach gives you complete control over your listing, pricing, and guest communication. You would be responsible for creating and managing your profile on platforms like VRBO, responding to inquiries, and coordinating with local staff for cleaning, check-ins, and maintenance. This can be a rewarding option for owners who want to be hands-on.

2. Professional Management: For a more hands-off experience, you can appoint a licensed property manager in Punta Cana. Alternatively, Bonita offers an optional on-site rental management program. While the program is designed to be a turnkey solution, the specific services included and the fee structure are detailed in the program's formal agreement. Your attorney can review this agreement to ensure it aligns with your goals.

What taxes apply to my rental income in the Dominican Republic?

Understanding the tax obligations is crucial for any owner renting out their property. As a non-resident, two primary taxes apply to income from short-term tourist rentals. It is essential to consult with a Dominican tax advisor to ensure full compliance, as tax laws can change.

A common point of confusion is the role of CONFOTUR, and it is a common misconception that its benefits apply to rental income. What our project's CONFOTUR approval provides is an exemption from the 3% property transfer tax and an exemption from the 1% annual property tax (IPI) for the fifteen-year term the law sets for a qualifying project. Those are real savings on acquiring and holding the asset. Rental earnings are assessed under their own part of the Dominican tax code, and how the two meet on your purchase is a question for your attorney.

Primary taxes on short-term rental income for non-residents.
Tax	Rate	Basis and Notes
ITBIS (VAT)	18%	Applied to short-term tourist lodging. The property owner (host) is responsible for collecting and remitting this tax, not the booking platform.
Non-Resident Withholding Tax	27%	A definitive tax on the gross rental income earned by non-residents, with no deductions permitted. This is withheld and paid to the Dominican tax authority (DGII).

How do I get started with renting my Bonita condo?

Setting up your property for its first guests involves a few key steps. Whether you manage it yourself or use the on-site program, a well-prepared residence is the foundation of a successful rental.

Prepare Your Residence
While Bonita residences are delivered move-in ready with high-end finishes, you will need to furnish and equip the unit for guests. This includes furniture, linens, kitchenware, and decor to create an inviting atmosphere.
Register for Tax Purposes
To comply with Dominican law, you must register as a taxpayer with the Dirección General de Impuestos Internos (DGII). This is necessary for remitting the 18% ITBIS tax on your rental income. A local accountant or attorney can handle this process on your behalf.
Create a Standout Listing
Invest in professional photography to showcase your residence and Bonita's unique amenities. When writing your listing description for VRBO or Airbnb, highlight features like the 161,000 square foot crystalline lagoon, the Rooftop 360° Lounge, and your location within the exclusive gates of Cap Cana.
Establish Your Operations
Decide on your process for handling guest check-ins, cleaning between stays, and responding to any maintenance needs. If you are self-managing, this may involve hiring local, trusted individuals. If you use a management service, they will handle these logistics.

What makes a Bonita residence a premium listing in Cap Cana?

A successful rental listing on VRBO or Airbnb depends on location, quality, and amenities. A residence at Bonita is positioned to excel in all three areas, appealing to discerning travelers seeking a premium experience in Punta Cana.

Your listing can feature exclusive access to amenities that are unique to Bonita, such as the expansive 161,000 square foot crystalline lagoon with its own private beach. The property's location inside the prestigious gates of Cap Cana is a significant draw, offering guests both security and proximity to world-class facilities. From your door, it's a short drive to some of the area's top attractions.

A rendering of the 161,000 square foot crystalline lagoon and private beach at Bonita Cap Cana, with residence buildings in the background.

Proximity to key Cap Cana and Punta Cana attractions.
Destination	Drive Time from Bonita
Juanillo Beach	5 min
Scape Park	5 min
Cap Cana Marina	8 min
Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ)	10 min

Common questions

How does CONFOTUR approval relate to my rental income tax?: CONFOTUR's exemptions attach to the 3% transfer tax and the 1% annual IPI, for the term the law provides to a qualifying project; rental earnings are assessed separately, and how the two meet on your purchase is a question for your attorney.
Do VRBO and Airbnb handle the taxes for me?: No. In the Dominican Republic, the property owner is legally responsible for declaring and paying the 18% ITBIS (VAT) on short-term rental income. Booking platforms do not remit this tax on the host's behalf.
Can I still use my condo if it's in the rental program?: Yes. The property is yours. The optional rental program is a service for owners who wish to generate income. The specific terms for owner usage, including any blackout dates or booking procedures, will be outlined in your management agreement.
What is the difference between the 18% ITBIS and the 27% withholding tax?: ITBIS is a value-added tax applied to the service of providing tourist accommodation. The 27% withholding tax is the income tax applied to the gross earnings for non-resident owners. Both are generally applicable to short-term rental income, and your Dominican accountant can provide specific guidance.