Based on the above comments, it looks like Airbnb DON’T normally require government ID, unless we as hosts have instant book, in which case we can demand it?
But today I’ve had the same situation as @Katrina79: A new guest (as of Nov), no reviews, sent an enquiry. Good communication, felt OK and I pre-approved. The text “Awaiting verification” then appeared in the enquiry.
The guest then had issues making a firm booking, because he was required to upload both pictures of a government ID, and a selfie, via the app. Senior guest (75 year old couple) with older model phone, unable to install the app (model too old), so logging in via the website. I’ve been on the phone with customer service several times today, trying to help him solve the issue.
Don’t get me wrong, I do think that it is good if Airbnb require ID, photo etc - but I was under the impression that they do not normally, so was wondering if it was a misunderstanding, new rules or what.
The guest was finally able to send in a photo of approved ID by email, as instructed by Airbnb representative. Only to be told by the website he still could not book, because he had to also UPLOAD a selfie. He was now close to giving up, but planning on going out tomorrow to buy a webcam, to be able to take a selfie and upload it from his pc. I called customer service again, and was told that the selfie could NOT be emailed, it had to be taken and uploaded directly by the same device (phone or computer). I asked if they really require a selfie, and was told all guests have to have selfies. The person in customer service was then very surprised to hear that my next guest has a “selfie” of a tree, and my first guest had a one of a couple of rocks...
Finally, I was told that they would be able to skip the demand for a selfie for the guest, and they would contact the guest to instruct him to make a NEW enquiry, as apparently the first one, that I pre-approved, was not good. I informed the guest, and 2 hours later he replied that they were still waiting for Airbnb to come back with instructions.
It’s a miracle this couple have not given up and booked a hotel by now, after spending a whole day trying to book my guest house for 4 nights!