Equatorial Guinea Rental Income Guide 2026
Rental income from letting immovable property in Equatorial Guinea is taxed as part of the landlord's overall income under the progressive IRPP (10–35%) for individuals. There is no separate rental income withholding tax regime. Landlords may deduct actual expenses or opt for a standard deduction. Professional landlords may need to register with different tax treatment. The tax is governed by the General Tax Code administered by the Ministerio de Hacienda.
Overview — Rental Income Tax in Equatorial Guinea
Rental income from letting or leasing of immovable property is chargeable to income tax in Equatorial Guinea. For individual landlords, net rental income (after allowable deductions) is added to other income and taxed under the progressive IRPP schedule (10–35%). For corporate landlords, rental income is included in taxable profits and taxed at the applicable CIT rate (35% standard, 65–75% oil, 25% mining). The landlord is responsible for declaring rental income in their annual tax return filed by 30 April. The high concentration of expatriate workers in the oil and gas sector creates strong demand for rental properties in Malabo and Bata, making rental income a significant investment category.
Individual Landlords — IRPP Treatment
For individuals letting residential or commercial property, net rental income is calculated as gross rent received minus allowable expenses. The net figure is added to the individual's other income and taxed at progressive IRPP rates (10–35%). Rental income is typically taxed at the landlord's marginal IRPP rate, which could be as high as 35% for high-income earners. However, the high bracket thresholds mean many landlords remain in the 10% or 15% brackets.
Deductible Expenses
Landlords may deduct actual expenses incurred in earning rental income, including:
- Repairs & maintenance — not capital improvements
- Property management fees
- Insurance premiums
- Mortgage interest
- Annual property tax — ~0.3% of cadastral value
- Notary & legal fees
- Utilities — if paid by the landlord
- Depreciation — buildings at 5% straight-line
Landlords may also opt for a standard deduction of 30% of gross rent instead of itemising actual expenses, available for properties let furnished where annual rent does not exceed XAF 15,000,000.
Professional Landlord Status
Landlords who let three or more furnished properties or who derive more than 50% of their income from letting may be classified as professional landlords. Professional landlords are required to register as a professional with the business registry, obtain a NIF for the activity, register for VAT (TVA) if annual rent exceeds XAF 50,000,000, and maintain proper accounting records under OHADA standards.
FAQs
Do I pay tax on rental income if I live abroad?
Yes, non-resident landlords are taxed on Equatorial Guinea-source rental income. The tax is calculated on net rental income at progressive IRPP rates. It is advisable to appoint a local tax representative.
Can I claim a deduction for the cost of buying the property?
The purchase cost is not directly deductible. However, depreciation on the building may be claimed at 5% per year straight-line. The purchase price is used as the cost base for future CGT calculations.
What records should I keep for rental income?
Keep all lease agreements, rent receipts, invoices for repairs and maintenance, insurance policies, mortgage statements, and tax returns for at least 5 years.
Disclaimer
This guide provides general information about Equatorial Guinea rental income tax for the 2026 tax year. Tax laws and rates may change. Always consult with a qualified Equatorial Guinean tax advisor or the Ministerio de Hacienda for advice specific to your situation. InvestmentKit does not provide tax advice.