Some cities and regions require landlords to register student rentals officially before listing. Uniplaces guides you through the process and requires your registration number before your listing can go live in regulated areas.
Why is official registration required?
Many European cities have introduced local regulations requiring landlords to obtain an official licence or registration number before advertising a property for rent. These regulations exist to ensure rental properties meet minimum safety and habitability standards, and to manage the growth of short and medium-term rental markets.
Listing without a valid registration number in a city that requires one is illegal and can result in significant fines from local authorities. Uniplaces requires landlords to provide their registration number during listing creation in regulated areas.
Which cities and countries require it?
| Country | Registration type | Where to register |
|---|---|---|
| Portugal | Alojamento Local (AL) licence | Balcão do Empreendedor (balcaodoempreendedor.pt) |
| Spain | Tourist/rental registration number | Regional tourist authority — varies by autonomous community |
| Italy | CIR (Codice Identificativo di Riferimento) | Regional portal — varies by region |
Requirements vary significantly by city and region within each country. Always verify the current requirements with your local authority before listing.
How to register — country-specific steps
Portugal — Alojamento Local
In Portugal, most short and medium-term rentals require an Alojamento Local (AL) licence. Register at the Balcão do Empreendedor portal online. You’ll need your property details, energy certificate and NIF. The process typically takes a few weeks and results in an AL registration number.
Spain — regional tourist registration
In Spain, requirements vary by autonomous community. In Catalonia (Barcelona), Madrid, Valencia and other regions, landlords must register with the regional tourist authority and display their registration number on all advertisements. Contact your regional tourist authority for the specific process in your area.
Italy — CIR code
In Italy, landlords in most regions must obtain a CIR (Codice Identificativo di Riferimento) through the regional portal. The CIR must be included on all rental advertisements. Requirements and portals vary by region — check with your local regional authority.
How to add your registration number to your Uniplaces listing
- Log in and go to your Personal Dashboard
- Select your listing and click Edit listing
- Navigate to the Legal & Documents section
- Enter your official registration number in the designated field
- Click Save changes
Once added, your registration number is displayed on your listing as required by local law.
What if you’re exempt?
Some property types or rental durations may be exempt from registration requirements. For example, in Portugal, certain long-term rentals above a minimum duration threshold are not subject to AL licensing. If your rental arrangement qualifies for an exemption, contact the Uniplaces support team with documentation confirming this and they’ll update your listing accordingly.
Frequently asked questions
Can my listing go live before I have my registration number?
In cities where registration is mandatory, your listing cannot go live without a valid registration number. If you’re in the process of obtaining one, contact the Uniplaces support team — in some cases they can provide guidance on the timeline while your application is pending.
What happens if regulations change in my city?
Rental regulations across Europe are evolving. Uniplaces monitors regulatory changes and will notify landlords if new requirements apply to their listing. Keep your contact details up to date in your dashboard to receive these notifications.
Does Uniplaces help with the registration process?
Uniplaces provides guidance on what’s required by country and city, but the registration itself must be completed by the landlord with the relevant local authority. The Landlord Portal at portal.uniplaces.com contains country-specific resources to help you through the process.
Do I need a separate registration for each property?
Yes — in most countries, each individual property requires its own registration. If you have multiple listings, you’ll need a separate registration number for each one.
Still need help?
Contact our landlord support team →