Renting a home in Portugal
Rentals move fast in Lisbon and Porto. Expect a security deposit (often two months), the first month up front, and frequently a fiador (guarantor) — with a bank guarantee or advance rent as alternatives if you don't have one.
Deposits and guarantors
Landlords typically ask for a security deposit — commonly two months — plus the first month, and often a fiador, usually a Portuguese resident. If you lack a guarantor, banks offer a garantia bancária (bank guarantee), or landlords may accept several months' rent in advance.
Finding a place
Search Idealista, Imovirtual, and Casa Sapo; agency fees sometimes apply. Always sign a written lease (contrato de arrendamento) — it protects you and doubles as the proof of address you'll need for your NIF, bank, and SNS registration.
Step by step
- 1Get your NIF
You'll need it to sign a lease.
- 2Budget the upfront cost
Deposit plus first month, and possibly advance rent or a bank guarantee.
- 3View and verify
Inspect listings and confirm the landlord and property documents before paying anything.
- 4Sign a written lease
Keep the contrato de arrendamento as your proof of address.
Documents you'll need
- NIF
- Passport / residence permit
- Proof of income or savings
- Fiador (guarantor) details or a bank guarantee
Estimated costs
| Item | Low | Average | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Security deposit (typical, per month of rent) | €700 | €1,100 | €1,800 |
| First month's rent (Lisbon/Porto 1-bed) | €800 | €1,200 | €2,000 |
| Agency fee (where charged) | €0 | €500 | €1,200 |
Estimates only — actual costs vary by city, provider, and personal circumstances.
Typical timelines
Trusted services
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Mid-term rental marketplace aimed at internationals — useful for booking a first place before you arrive.
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Official sources
Frequently asked questions
Often, especially as a first-time foreign tenant. A bank guarantee (garantia bancária) or several months' advance rent are common alternatives.
Commonly two months, sometimes plus advance rent — confirm the exact terms in the written lease.
Always insist on a written lease — it protects your rights and serves as proof of address.
This guide is informational and may change. It is not legal, tax, or immigration advice. Always confirm requirements with the official sources above or a licensed professional.