Why do European hotels keep your passport?

In many countries in Europe it is a legal requirement to verify and record the indentity of all foreign residents staying in hotels, and record the details of their ID document. If you entered this (passport No. etc.) online when you booked, they just check your ID is the same at check-in.



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They will take the details from your passport in some cases but they will return it to you immediately. The reason they take your details is so they have a record of your stay and a way to contact you or to have documents for the police just in case it becomes necessary later.

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Many countries have laws requiring foreign visitors to register with the local police. By taking your passports the hotels are doing this for you (and it's not their decision - it's the law - they have no choice). If the hotel didn't do this for you, you would have to find a local police station and register yourself.

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In Italy, the hotels are required to register guests with the local authorities, which they do via your passport information. They will collect your passport when you check in, sometimes keeping it for 24 hours before returning it to you.

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By verifying the identity of guests through their ID, hotels can prevent fraud, theft, and other criminal activities. Legal Compliance: In many countries, hotels are required by law to verify the identity of their guests and keep records of their personal information, including passport or ID details.

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Identity thieves can use this information to impersonate you, apply for credit cards or loans in your name, or even commit crimes while using your identity. It is essential to protect your passport number and regularly monitor your credit reports for any suspicious activity.

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To comply with Portuguese regulations, hosts must provide details about their guests, including full name, birth date, place of residency, nationality, identity document details, and the country that issued the document.

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As veterans in the hospitality industry, we understand that this basic request might be unfamiliar for many travelers. But rest assured, we're happy to clarify that this is perfectly normal and required by law. Yes, even locals have to present our IDs at hotels, B&Bs, and other accommodations both in Italy and abroad.

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Sharing passport details with an Airbnb host can be risky, especially if the host is not legitimate. If the host is a fraudster or scammer, they could use your passport details to commit identity theft.

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A passport issued to you is your personal property. Anyone who takes your passport without legal authority to do so and holds it with the intent to deprive you of its possession or use has committed the crime of theft.

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You must always carry a photo ID, such as your passport or driver's licence. Police conduct random checks, particularly at borders.

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