Stop the keyboxes and tighten up on self check-in: what changes for short-term rentals

The Italian Ministry of the Interior has introduced new restrictions onuse of key boxes (keybox) for access to rental accommodation facilities brief. With a circular, the Interior Ministry clarified that the Automated self check-in and remote identification do not meet security requirements provided for by the legislation.

This decision aims to ensure that accommodation managers verify the identity in person of guests, recording the data and communicating them to the competent authorities within 24 hours of arrival. The measure responds to the increase in tourism in Italy, linked to major events such as the 2025 Jubilee, which will attract millions of visitors.

The National Identification Code (CIN) will also be introduced

Minister Matteo Piantedosi defined keyboxes as a system outdatedhighlighting the need for direct control over the identity of guests. Even in facilities without a concierge, managers are asked to ensure rigorous monitoringto avoid abuse or circumvention of the rules. Likewise, the Minister of Tourism, Daniela Santanchè, expressed appreciation for the strict regulations, underlining how this can contribute to a safer and more organized tourist experience.

The new directives do not only affect keyboxes, but are part of a broader regulatory framework, which includes the introduction of the National Identification Code (CIN) mandatory from 2025. This system will allow each accommodation facility to be uniquely tracked, contributing to fight tax evasion and to protect consumers.

Some municipalities, such as Florence, are already implementing further measures, banning the use of keyboxes in central areas from 2025 to improve urban decor and promote sustainable tourism. A measure taken also after the protests of the activists of Save Florence who covered the boxes in the center with red X stickers.

Despite this, there are also criticisms: the Italian Association of Short-Term Rental Managers (Aigab) highlights that many remote check-in technologies use advanced biometric identificationsimilar to those used in other industries, and consider the restriction discriminatory for the sharing economy sector.