Declaration of hospitality for foreign citizens in Italy

Anyone who hosts a non-EU citizen or a stateless person in their home is required, under Italian law (Art. 7 L.D. 286/98), to report it to the public security authorities. This measure is intended to ensure the monitoring of foreign nationals present on national territory and to contribute to public safety. The communication, known as a “declaration of hospitality,” must be made within 48 hours of the guest’s arrival and applies not only to informal or family hospitality but also to cases of rental or granting the use of a property.

The law states that this obligation applies to any person—Italian or foreign—who, for any reason, provides accommodation. It is irrelevant whether the lodging is provided free of charge or for payment, or whether the relationship between the host and guest is familial, professional, or friendly. The main goal is to ensure the traceability of individuals present in the country, including for administrative purposes such as issuing or renewing a residence permit.

The declaration must include the host’s identifying information (accompanied by a valid ID), the personal details of the hosted foreign citizen, a copy of their passport or equivalent document, and the exact address of the accommodation. It is also necessary to indicate the starting date of the stay. This communication must be submitted to the Questura (police headquarters) or the local police station responsible for the area where the property is located. In some municipalities, the documentation may also be submitted digitally via certified email (PEC), following locally established procedures.

Failure to comply with this obligation may result in administrative sanctions, with fines ranging from €160 to over €1,000. For this reason, it is essential to keep a copy of the declaration stamped by the receiving office, both for the host and the guest.

Hospitality establishments, such as bed & breakfasts, guesthouses, and vacation homes, are also required to report the presence of foreign guests. In these cases, registration must be completed within 24 hours through the "Alloggiati Web" online portal, a digital system provided by the State Police to simplify and speed up data transmission. The obligation applies even if the guest stays for less than one day.

In summary, the declaration of hospitality is a mandatory requirement for anyone offering accommodation to non-EU citizens or stateless individuals. It is not only a legal duty but also a useful tool for ensuring transparency, safety, and the proper management of migration flows in Italy.

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