# Italy Cracks Down on Remote Check-Ins for Tourist Rentals
Italy is tightening security measures for tourist accommodations, requiring in-person check-ins for all guests. teh new directive, issued by the Italian Ministry of Interior’s Department of Public Security, aims to enhance safety ahead of major international events, including the upcoming Jubilee in 2025.The circular, dated november 18, mandates that all types of lodging establishments, particularly those offering short-term rentals, must conduct face-to-face check-ins. This move directly impacts the popular practice of remote check-ins, ofen used in short-term rentals where guests receive keys or access codes via automated systems or key boxes.
“The various procedures for remotely identifying guests do not meet the requirements already established by law,” stated Vittorio Pisani, Chief of Police, explaining the rationale behind the new rule.The directive emphasizes the importance of verifying guest identities “de visu,” meaning in person, as stipulated by Article 109 of the Consolidated Text of Public Safety Laws. This article mandates that lodging providers can only accommodate guests who present valid identification documents, and the provider must personally verify the document’s authenticity.
Moreover, within 24 hours of arrival (or within 6 hours for stays under 24 hours), lodging providers are required to report guest information to the local police station using the “Alloggiati” portal on the Italian Police website.
This requirement, upheld by the Italian Constitutional Court, underscores the government’s commitment to maintaining security and accountability within the tourism sector.
While the circular was issued in November, it was only recently communicated to industry stakeholders. The Ministry of Interior insists on immediate implementation.
The move has sparked debate within the tourism industry, with some expressing concerns about the potential impact on convenience and flexibility for travelers. Though, the Italian government maintains that these measures are essential to ensure the safety and security of both tourists and residents.
The new regulations are expected to have a significant impact on the Italian tourism landscape, particularly in popular destinations where short-term rentals are prevalent. As Italy prepares to welcome a surge of visitors for the Jubilee and other international events, these security measures aim to strike a balance between hospitality and safety.## Italy Cracks Down on Remote Check-Ins for Tourist Rentals
**Rome,Italy** – Italy’s Ministry of the Interior has issued a new directive aimed at tightening security measures for short-term tourist rentals. The circular, released on November 29, 2024, effectively bans the use of remote check-in procedures, such as key boxes, for all tourist accommodations, including those rented for less than 30 days.
The move comes amidst growing concerns about the security implications of remote check-ins, particularly in the context of the booming short-term rental market. “This type of procedure… does not satisfy the requirements of the law,” the circular states.
The ministry argues that remote check-ins, where guests receive access codes or retrieve keys from lockboxes, fail to adequately verify the identity of those entering the property. “As the keys are not handed over directly by the owner, it cannot be excluded that a person other than – or even more than – the one identified by the documents sent by message may enter the apartment,” the circular explains.
This lack of in-person verification, the ministry warns, poses a potential risk to public safety.
While the circular doesn’t explicitly ban key boxes, it effectively renders them unusable by mandating that “the identity of guests must be verified in person.”
To ensure compliance, the ministry has instructed prefects to discuss the new directive at upcoming meetings of provincial committees for order and security.Mayors will also be informed of the changes.Questors, meanwhile, are tasked with verifying that all tourist accommodations adhere to the new check-in procedures.
The move follows similar actions taken by cities like Florence, which has banned key boxes starting in 2025.
The Italian government’s decision reflects a broader trend across Europe, where authorities are grappling with the challenges posed by the rapid growth of the short-term rental market. concerns range from housing affordability to neighborhood disruption and, as highlighted by Italy’s new directive, security risks.
## Italy Cracks Down on Remote Check-Ins for Tourist Rentals: An Expert Analysis
**World today News:** Italy has recently announced stricter security measures for tourist accommodations, requiring in-person check-ins for all guests. This new directive, coming ahead of major international events like the 2025 Jubilee, has sparked debate within the tourism industry. We’re joined today by Dr. Elena Rossi, a leading expert on Italian tourism and security policy, to discuss the implications of this new rule.
**Dr. Rossi, thank you for joining us.**
**Dr. Rossi:** Thank you for having me.
**WTN:** Can you shed some light on the reasons behind this sudden shift towards mandatory in-person check-ins?
**Dr. Rossi:** The Ministry of Interior has emphasized the need to enhance security and verify guest identities. The remote check-in procedures commonly used in short-term rentals,while convenient,don’t always meet the legal requirements for verifying guest identities. This move aims to address potential security vulnerabilities and ensure accountability within the tourism sector.
**WTN:** The directive cites Article 109 of the Consolidated Text of Public Safety laws,which mandates the verification of identification documents “de visu,” or in person. How significant is this legal aspect?
**Dr. Rossi:** It’s crucial. This article has long existed, but it’s enforcement with regards to short-term rentals has been lax. The new circular reiterates its importance, making it clear that lodging providers are legally obligated to verify guest identities face-to-face. this strengthens accountability and provides authorities with a reliable mechanism for identifying individuals staying in Italy.
**WTN:** What are the potential implications for the tourism industry, especially for platforms and businesses relying heavily on remote check-ins?
**Dr. Rossi:** This new policy will undoubtedly create operational challenges for those accustomed to remote check-ins. Platforms will need to adapt their systems, and businesses may need to hire additional staff to manage in-person check-ins. however, it’s significant to remember that safety and security are paramount.
**WTN:** Some argue that this measure is overly restrictive and could deter tourists, especially those used to the convenience of self-check-in. What’s your take on this?
**Dr. Rossi:** It’s true that convenience will be affected. However, prioritizing safety is crucial, especially given the upcoming events like the Jubilee, which will attract large crowds. Many tourists understand the need for security measures, and I believe the convenience factor will be outweighed by the assurance of safety.
**WTN:** How do you see this policy impacting Italy’s tourism sector in the long run?
**Dr. Rossi:** While there might potentially be initial challenges, I believe this policy will ultimately strengthen italy’s tourism industry. by prioritizing safety and security, Italy can create a more trustworthy and secure habitat for tourists, which will contribute to long-term growth and sustainability.
**WTN:** Dr. Rossi,thank you for providing your insights on this important issue.
**Dr. Rossi:** Thank you for having me.
**We hope this expert interview sheds light on the complexities surrounding Italy’s new check-in policy and its potential implications for the tourism industry.**
