Add and use two-factor authentication

To access certain parts of your account, you might be required to complete two-factor authentication. In addition to providing an extra layer of security, this measure is required for all Hosts in the European Economic Area (EEA). Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to your account by requiring your phone to access your account.

Why two-factor authentication is required

Two-factor authentication is our name for Strong Customer Authentication, or SCA, which is a requirement of European payment service regulation. It’s designed to help prevent fraud. You may have noticed a similar experience when accessing your bank account online or while using financial apps.

What you’ll need to complete two-factor authentication

Before you get started, make sure you have a current phone number saved to the Personal info section of your account. This phone number will need to be capable of receiving a verification code via SMS text or phone call. If you don’t have a phone number with these capabilities attached to your account, access to certain parts of your account may be blocked.

Set up two-factor authentication

Using two-factor authentication once it’s set up

When you visit a part of the Airbnb site or app that requires two-factor authentication, a one-time passcode will be sent to the phone number associated with your account. Enter the code you've been sent, and then confirm your identity using either your account PIN or your security questions.

Using Device Authentication

After two-factor authentication is set up, you may be able to authenticate your login in the same way you unlock your device, whether that’s with face recognition, your fingerprint, or passcode. Check with your device manufacturer for specific instructions on how to set this up.

You can always deactivate this setting by visiting Login & Security on your account. 

Keep in mind that if you’re logging in from a new device for the first time, this feature won’t be available. You’ll need to use a verification code and PIN instead.

Making changes to your phone number

If you need to change the phone number you use for two-factor authentication, you can edit your phone number at any time. You will need to use two-factor authentication before adding or updating your phone number. 

If you don’t have access to any of the phone numbers on your account and can’t receive a one-time passcode, select the Need Help option on the two-factor authentication screen. Once you’ve submitted your request, we’ll get in touch within 12–24 hours so you can add a new phone number to your account.

What to do if you forget your two-factor authentication PIN

If you can’t remember your PIN, you can answer your security questions to regain access to your account by clicking Forgot PIN on the Enter your PIN screen.

If you can’t remember your PIN or security questions, select Need Help. Be ready to update your PIN as soon as you get a response from us, which will be within 12–24 hours.