What is Guest Registration?
Those familiar with the tourism industry undoubtedly know what we are talking about, and anyone who has stayed in a hotel will remember that moment when they were asked for documents during check-in.
But what is the purpose?
Contrary to what one might think, the primary purpose of requesting documents is not merely to confirm that the person who made the reservation is the same individual using the room or to identify the guest in case of damages.
Few are aware that once guests’ documents are collected in the establishment, they are recorded in a portal called “Alloggiati web,” which directly sends the data to the police. This international system helps identify anyone evading legal responsibilities.
Moreover, guest data is recorded at Istat (National Institute of Statistics), which monitors various tourist flows within the country. It analyzes, for example, Italians’ preferred vacation destinations, the most visited cities, favorite family destinations, etc.
All the information collected is then published on the official Istat website.
Although these procedures may seem lengthy, especially for businesses with a large number of guests, carrying out these processes is mandatory by law. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in substantial fines.
Many are unaware that document submission is not exclusive to hotels; it applies to all accommodation facilities such as B&Bs, vacation homes, shelters, etc.
In establishments where check-in is done in person, there is no issue. However, for those, for example, with a vacation home and no time to personally welcome guests, requesting a photo of the documents is necessary.
So far, so good. Unfortunately, guests at establishments may refuse to send a photo of their documents, citing a violation of their privacy. For this reason, many short-term rental management agencies use software capable of registering documents while ensuring adequate security standards to keep guest data safe.
If you are interested in an agency handling these procedures correctly and efficiently, contact us!