What is the CIN code?
The National Identification Code (CIN) is the code assigned by the Ministry of Tourism to all properties intended for tourist use (hotels, campsites, etc.) and short term rentals and any type of non-hotel facilities (b&b, hostels, agritourisms, room rentals) in Italy.
It is assigned after an express request by the owner of the property or the person entitled to it in the case of a non-owned property (with the owner’s proxy).
The most significant novelty is the registration of data on these facilities in a National Database. This initiative aims to ensure greater traceability and control, thus contributing to more effective and transparent management in the field of short-term rentals and accommodation facilities.
How is the CIN code composed?
The CIN code is a specifically structured alphanumeric identifier. It consists of several parts, each with a specific meaning:
- Ministry Recoding Code: Indicates the recoding specified by the Ministry.
- ISTAT Code of the Province: Identifies the province according to the ISTAT code.
- ISTAT Municipality Code: Specifies the municipality by the ISTAT code.
- ISTAT Classification Code: Defines the classification according to the ISTAT criteria.
Random Alphanumeric Sequence: A randomly generated series of alphanumeric characters to ensure the uniqueness of the code.
From when will the CIN code be compulsory?
The CIN code will be available from 03/09/2024, the date on which it will become compulsory in all Italian regions and hotel and non-hotel accommodation facilities, and will become OBLIGATORY 60 days after the publication in the Official Gazette (which took place on 03/09/2024) 03/09/2024of the notice confirming the operation of the Accommodation Facilities Data Bank (BDSR) on the official website of the Ministry of Tourism, for which the CIN must be obtained by 02/11/2024.
Who must have the CIN code?
The National Identification Code (CIN) is required for the following categories of buildings and structures:
- Real estate units for residential use intended for leases for tourist purposes;
- Short-term leases of real estate;
- Tourist accommodation facilities, both hotel and non-hotel.
How to obtain the National Identification Code (NIC)?
To obtain a National Identification Code (NIC), you need to follow an automated online procedure of the Ministry of Tourism. Below are the key steps and specific requirements:
- Online application: the facility owner must submit a formal application on the official portal communicated by the Ministry of Tourism to obtain the CIN Code. The application procedure takes place exclusively online through an automated system. The guided procedure for obtaining it is to be carried out via the website https://bdsr.ministeroturismo.gov.it/ .
- To access it, you will need to use your SPID or Electronic Identity Card (CIE) digital credentials.
- Documents required to apply for the CIN: it is mandatory to attach a declaration containing the cadastral data of the property and the attachment or self-certification attesting compliance with the new security requirements for properties intended for ‘short-term rentals’.
To whom should the CIN code be communicated and what obligations do landlords have?
The CIN code does not have to be communicated, but rather displayed. The obligation at national level for landlords is to display the National Identification Code (CIN) outside the property and on online portals. The provisions are as follows:
Outside the structure: the CIN code must be displayed outside the building, positioned close to the name of the property to which it refers. This step is essential to ensure visibility and clear identification of the structure;
In all online listings: the CIN code must be included in every listing published on online OTA portals (such as Airbnb, Booking.com, Expedia) and on any website where the property is advertised, including direct booking websites. This practice ensures the transparency and clear identification required by law also during the online search and booking phase.
Are penalties provided for non-compliance with the CIN code?
The sanctions provided for non-compliance with the provisions relating to the National Identification Code (CIN) vary according to the type of violation:
- the establishment is advertised (all establishments) or rented out (short-term rentals) without regular possession of the CIN Code. Fines ranging from €800 to €8,000.
- the facility does not display the CIN Code on the outside of the facility/property or on any online advertisement on portals and websites or on any advertising. Monetary sanctions, ranging from 500 € to 5,000 €.
- the structure does not comply with safety requirements. Monetary sanctions ranging from €600 to €6,000 for each violation ascertained.
- the structure has not submitted the Certified Declaration of Start of Activity (SCIA). Monetary sanctions from 200 € to 10,000 €.