How can I rent a flat in Spain as a foreigner? Check all the requirements here

Are you a foreigner thinking of renting a property in Spain? What permits and documents do you need to move into a flat? 

Renting a flat in Spain can seem overwhelming, but with the correct information, you can find the perfect home without unnecessary hassle. This article reviews some essential tips to help you look for a rental property as a foreigner.

Requirements for renting a flat in Spain as a foreigner

The rental agreements and requirements for foreigners are practically the same as for Spanish citizens. The only thing that changes is the identity documentation that the tenant must provide. For foreigners, it is usually the NIE (foreigners' identification number); however, if you do not have one, you can sign a rental agreement with a passport.

Therefore, foreigners need the following documents to rent a property in Spain:

• NIE or passport

The Foreigner Identification Number (NIE) is essential for any foreigner who wants to reside or work legally in Spain. If you do not have an NIE, you can apply for one at the Foreigners' Office in your province. Otherwise, you can sign a rental agreement with a valid passport.

• Employment contract or certificate of studies

The landlord will want to ensure you have enough income to pay the rent. If you have an employment contract, you can present a copy stamped and signed by your employer. If you're a student, you can submit a certificate of studies.

• References from other rentals

The landlord may also ask you for positive references from other landlords you have rented from.

• Deposit

The security deposit in the rental of a property is an amount of money that the rental law establishes as obligatory to cover possible damages to the property. The deposit amount is one month's rent.

• Additional guarantee

The additional guarantee clause in the rental contract is presented as a preventive and resolutive measure for possible conflict situations, such as non-payment, damage or accidents that may adversely impact the lease.

• Guarantor

Tenants can consider two main types of rental guarantees. One is the bank guarantor, provided by a bank. To obtain this guarantee, the bank assesses the client's financial ability to meet the payment commitments and analyses the guarantees backing the repayment of the guaranteed amounts.

The second option is the personal guarantor, in which a third person assumes responsibility for the tenant's possible debts. A common example is when parents agree to be liable for the obligations arising from their child's rental agreement.

• Hold a Spanish bank account

You will need a Spanish bank account to pay the rent if it is paid by transfer or regular payment, as well as utility bills. In some cases, international bank accounts may be accepted.

Freepik

How can I rent a flat without an NIE?

You can sign a rental agreement with a valid passport, even if you do not have an NIE. You just have to put your passport number as your main identity document on the rental agreement.

Model rental agreement for foreigners

On idealista, you can download the rental agreements for foreigners that are ready to be filled in and up-to-date to 2023 and the latest law:

• Rental agreement for foreigners (PDF)
• Rental agreement for foreigners (Word)

Rights as a foreigner when renting a flat in Spain

As a tenant, you must know your rights and obligations in the rental agreement. For example, you have the right to request a guided tour of the flat by the landlord or the rental agency. You can also freely negotiate the duration of the contract with the landlord.

Another important right you have as a tenant is to demand that the property is kept in good condition. For example, if problems arise in the flat, you can ask the landlord to do the necessary repairs.

Foreigners' obligations when renting flats in Spain

As for your obligations as a tenant, you must pay the deposit and the monthly rent on time. Additionally, you must pay the electricity and water bills (normally you have to pay these as the tenant). Remember that you cannot assign your contract or sublet the flat without the landlord's explicit permission.

Freepik

Cheapest rental areas in Spain

According to the latest idealista price report, the average rental price in Spain is €11.8/m2. These are the average rental prices by autonomous community: