A proper rental contract is not just protection against sudden eviction: you need it for residence registration, permit renewal and family reunification. Yet many foreigners live in homes with no contract or with unregistered ones.
Types of contract
- Free-market (4+4): four years, renewable for another four, rent set freely.
- Agreed rent (3+2): three years plus two, rent set by local agreements, often lower.
- Temporary: 1 to 18 months, only for documented temporary needs.
The landlord’s obligations
- Register the contract with the Revenue Agency within 30 days of signing.
- Notify the police of renting to or hosting non-EU citizens within 48 hours through the dedicated portal: failing to do so carries a fine of €160 to €1,100.
- The security deposit cannot exceed three months’ rent.
Tenant documents
A valid passport, residence permit (or renewal receipt), tax code and proof of stable income, such as an employment contract or payslips.
Tips
- Pay rent by bank transfer or always ask for a receipt.
- Ask for a copy of the registered contract: you will need it at the police and the town hall.
- Be wary of “beds” offered with no contract: they don’t allow you to register your residence.
