Hungarian Host Asking for all details in passport and a photocopy of my passport with my photo, normal practice?

[Chris18635]

 I will be staying in an AirBnb in Budapest for 5 days. The host reached out to me asking for my date of birth, passport number, and place of birth, among other personal information. J

I don't think this information is necessary, especially passport photocopy with my photo.

Anybody has such experience? Should i report this to AirBnB?

with thanks

[Ruth413 · Accepted solution]

@Chris18635   As of 2021 it is law in Hungary for all accommodation providers to ask for these things.  I have pasted a list of what they need to ask for below.

Mandatory data collection

The data to be collected from arriving guests include:

• name, surname, place and date of birth, nationality, mother’s maiden name and surname,
• data in the identification document, in case of third-country national the visa or residence permit number, the date and place of entry,
• the address of the accommodation, the start and expected and actual end dates of stay.

It is quite normal across various countries in Europe.

Hope this helps.

[David10757]

Hello Ruth, Thanks for your informative reply to the question of Hungarian renters asking for passport details prior to arrival.  I have just booked to stay in an apartment for 5 nights in December.  The renter has sent me a link via email and requested that I scan a copy of passport for both myself and my wife to this link.  I'm not overly comfortable with this.  Have you heard of this before and whether it is legit and/or even safe.  Many thanks in advance for your advice.

[Xinwen0]

Hi David, I am encoutering the same issue. Have you provided those information? Airbab customer center is not helping (only automatic replies).

[Helen3]

Hello @Xinwen0 @David10757 

It's always a good idea to check local regulations when travelling. 

In many countries there is a legal requirement for accommodation providers to collect photo ID from guests.

Often hosts offer self check in so will use a secure online portal to fulfil their requirement to collect guest ID.

[Eva3270]

Hi do they require a passport number for all guests? I find this is so big brother. I don't feel comfortable handing this info over on an airbnb platform. How else can this info be provided where it's at less risk to be hacked? Thanks you 

[Mar125]

yes. IDing a guest is a normal practice.