Step-by-Step: How to Apply for an Alojamento Local License
Renting out your property for short-term stays (Alojamento Local or “AL”) requires a specific license. While the process has seen some national changes and municipalities like Porto now have more autonomy in regulation, the core steps for obtaining your AL license in 2025 remain similar. Here’s a clear, step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:
Step 1: Check Local Regulations & Eligibility
Before anything, confirm if your property is eligible. Porto’s Câmara Municipal (City Council) has “containment zones” (especially in the historic center like Ribeira, parts of Cedofeita/Bonfim) where new AL licenses are restricted. Check their official website for updated zoning maps. Also, ensure your condominium rules (if applicable) don’t prohibit short-term rentals and that your property is classified as residential.
Step 2: Register Your Activity with Finanças (Tax Authority)
This is your first official step. You need to become a self-employed professional for tax purposes.
- How: Register online at the Autoridade Tributária e Aduaneira (Finanças) portal or visit a local tax office.
- Activity Code (CAE): Open a new activity under 55201 (Furnished accommodation for tourists) or 55204 (other short-term accommodation). You’ll need your NIF (Portuguese Tax Identification Number).
Step 3: Secure Mandatory Civil Liability Insurance
This is a critical and strictly enforced requirement.
- Type: Obtain multi-risk insurance specifically covering property damage, common areas, and civil liability for guests/third parties, including fire and natural elements.
- Proof: Keep proof of this active policy for your application.
Step 4: Prepare Your Property & Gather Documents
Ensure your property meets safety standards and collect necessary paperwork.
- Safety Equipment: Install a fire extinguisher, fire blanket (in kitchen), and a first-aid kit.
- Information: Display the national emergency number (112). Prepare an information book for guests (Portuguese, English, +2 languages) outlining rules, emergencies, and local tips.
- Key Documents:
- Your ID/Passport.
- Caderneta Predial Urbana (Property Tax Document from Finanças).
- Licença de Utilização (Usage License for properties post-1951).
- Termo de Responsabilidade (Declaration of Responsibility confirming compliance).
- Capacity: Determine maximum guests (max 9 rooms / 27 guests per AL).
- “AL” Plate: Plan for the official exterior identification plate
Step 5: Register Your Alojamento Local (AL) at the Câmara Municipal
This is the official license application.
- How: Submit online via the Balcão Único Eletrónico (BUE) or in person at the Câmara Municipal do Porto (it can take up to 60 days for it to be approved).
- RNAL Number: Upon approval, you’ll receive your Registo Nacional de Alojamento Local (RNAL) number, which must be displayed on all advertising platforms.
Step 6: Ongoing Compliance (Post-License)
Your obligations continue after getting the license.
- AIMA (formerly SEF) Communication: For foreign guests (non-Portuguese), report their entry/exit via the SIBA platform within three working days.
- Complaints Book: Have a physical or electronic Complaints Book (Livro de Reclamações).
- Tourist Tax: Collect and remit the Porto Municipal Tourist Tax (€2.00/person/night, up to 7 nights, for guests 13+).
Always check the very latest information from the Câmara Municipal do Porto, as local regulations can evolve
