What Is Alojamento Local (AL)?

If you’re thinking about renting out your Madeira property for short stays — through Airbnb, Booking.com, or directly — you’ll most likely need to register it as Alojamento Local (AL).

What Alojamento Local is

Alojamento Local is Portugal’s legal framework covering the rental of a property to tourists for periods of less than 30 days, outside the traditional hotel system. It applies to apartments, villas, individual rooms, and other types of accommodation.

When registration is required

Any property rented to tourists on a regular basis — even occasionally through an online platform — must be registered with the RNAL (National Register of Local Accommodation). Registration is done through the single electronic counter and the municipal council of the area where the property is located.

Main obligations of an owner

• Display the AL registration number visibly on the property and in online listings.
• Keep a complaints book, either physical or electronic, available to guests.
• Report the guest list to SEF/AIMA in accordance with current legislation.
• Meet minimum safety requirements, such as fire extinguishers and emergency signage.
• Declare the income earned to the Tax Authority.

What changes in restricted zones

In some parishes of Funchal and other Madeira municipalities, there are containment areas where opening new AL registrations is limited or suspended. Before buying a property intending to rent it to tourists, it’s worth checking with the municipal council whether the address falls under these restrictions.

Why specialized support is worth it

The registration process and ongoing compliance obligations can be time-consuming for anyone not dealing with them day to day. Professional management handles registration, document updates, and legal compliance on the owner’s behalf, avoiding fines and issues with the authorities.