Refund Policy
Our commitment to fair and transparent refund processes
Last updated: January 2026
At AkiliStay, we understand that plans can change. This policy outlines our refund and cancellation procedures for different types of bookings on our platform. We strive to be fair to both guests and partners while maintaining a reliable marketplace.
Short-term Bookings
For vacation rentals and short-term stays (daily/weekly bookings):
Full Refund
Cancel more than 48 hours before check-in for a full refund minus the service fee.
Partial Refund (50%)
Cancel between 24-48 hours before check-in for a 50% refund of the accommodation cost.
No Refund
Cancellations less than 24 hours before check-in or no-shows are not eligible for refunds.
Note: Some partners may offer more flexible cancellation policies. Check the property listing for specific terms.
Long-term Leases
For monthly and yearly rental agreements:
Security Deposit
- Full deposit refund if cancelled before partner approval
- Deposit held in escrow during tenancy and returned at lease end (minus any deductions)
- Deductions may apply for property damage, unpaid rent, or cleaning fees
Early Termination
- 30 days written notice required for early termination
- Early termination fee may apply (typically 1 month's rent)
- No penalty if replacement tenant is found
Student Hostel Applications
For semester-based hostel bookings:
Before Payment Deadline
Cancel your application before the payment deadline for a full refund if any payment was made.
After Payment, Before Semester Starts
Cancellations after payment but before the semester starts may receive a partial refund (typically 70-80%) depending on the hostel's policy.
After Semester Starts
No refunds are typically available once the academic semester has begun, unless there are exceptional circumstances approved by the hostel management.
Note: Each hostel may have specific refund policies. Check with the hostel directly for their terms.
Refund Processing Time
| Payment Method | Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Mobile Money (MTN, Vodafone, AirtelTigo) | 1-3 business days |
| Debit/Credit Card | 5-10 business days |
| Bank Transfer | 3-5 business days |
Refunds are processed to the original payment method used for the booking.
Exceptional Circumstances
We may offer full refunds outside of our standard policy in the following situations:
- • Property significantly different from listing description
- • Safety or health concerns at the property
- • Partner cancellation
- • Natural disasters or government-mandated restrictions
- • Documented medical emergencies
How to Request a Refund
- 1
Log into Your Account
Go to your dashboard and find the booking you want to cancel.
- 2
Click "Cancel Booking"
Select the reason for cancellation and confirm your request.
- 3
Receive Confirmation
You'll receive an email confirming your cancellation and refund amount.
- 4
Refund Processed
Your refund will be processed according to the timeline above.
Need Help?
If you have questions about our refund policy or need assistance with a refund request, our support team is here to help.