Finding a place to live is one of the first challenges foreign workers face after arriving in Europe. The good news is that renting an apartment in Europe is possible for foreign workers, but the ease depends on the country, city, visa type, and documents you have.
Is It Easy for Foreign Workers to Rent Apartments in Europe?
Yes, foreign workers can rent apartments in most European countries, but it is not always “easy” at the beginning.
Many landlords prefer tenants who:
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Have legal residence
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Have a job contract
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Can prove income
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Can pay a deposit
Once you have these, renting becomes much smoother.
Does Visa Type Affect Renting an Apartment?
Yes, your visa matters.
Foreign workers with:
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Work permits
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EU Blue Cards
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Long-term residence permits
usually find it easier to rent than tourists or short-stay visitors.
Some landlords may refuse tenants who only have:
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Tourist visas
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Short-term entry visas
This is common in big cities with high housing demand.
What Documents Do Landlords Usually Ask For?
Most European landlords ask for the following:
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Passport
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Valid residence permit or work visa
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Work contract or employment letter
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Recent payslips or proof of income
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Bank statement (in some countries)
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Rental application form
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Security deposit (1–3 months’ rent)
Some countries also ask for:
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Local registration number
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Tax number
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Rental insurance
Is Language a Problem When Renting?
Language can be a challenge, especially outside major cities.
In countries where English is less commonly spoken:
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Rental ads may be in the local language
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Contracts may not be in English
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Communication with landlords may be difficult
Using a local agent, employer support, or translation help can solve this problem.
Which European Countries Are Easier for Foreign Workers to Rent?
Based on migrant experience, renting is generally easier in:
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Germany
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Portugal
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Spain
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Poland
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Romania
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Latvia
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Lithuania
These countries have:
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Large migrant populations
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Clear rental laws
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Online rental platforms
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More affordable housing in smaller cities
Which Countries Are More Difficult for Renting?
Renting can be harder in:
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Netherlands
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Ireland
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Sweden
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Denmark
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Switzerland
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Luxembourg
Reasons include:
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Housing shortages
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High rents
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Strong competition
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Strict landlord screening
In these countries, shared housing is often the first step.
Can Foreign Workers Rent Without a Local Bank Account?
Sometimes yes, but not always.
Many landlords prefer:
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Local bank transfers
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Automatic monthly payments
Some will accept:
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International bank accounts
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Cash (not recommended)
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Employer-paid housing
Opening a local bank account early makes renting much easier.
Is Renting Easier in Small Cities Than Big Cities?
Yes. This is very important.
Big cities:
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Higher rent
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More competition
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Faster decision-making by landlords
Smaller cities and towns:
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Lower rent
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More flexible landlords
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Easier approvals
Many foreign workers start in shared housing and move later.
Can Employers Help With Accommodation?
Yes, in many cases.
Some employers:
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Provide company housing
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Arrange temporary accommodation
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Act as guarantors for rent
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Help with local registration
This is common for:
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Blue-collar jobs
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Seasonal work
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Factory and warehouse jobs
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Healthcare and caregiving roles
What Is a Rental Deposit in Europe?
A rental deposit is money paid before moving in.
Typical deposit:
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1 to 3 months’ rent
The deposit is refundable if:
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The apartment is returned in good condition
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Rent is fully paid
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No contract damage occurs
Always ask for a written receipt.
Are There Rental Contracts for Foreign Workers?
Yes. Rental contracts are mandatory in most countries.
Contracts usually include:
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Rent amount
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Deposit amount
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Contract duration
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Notice period
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Utility responsibilities
Never rent without a written agreement.
How Can Foreign Workers Avoid Rental Scams?
Rental scams exist, especially online.
To stay safe:
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Never send money before viewing the property
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Avoid landlords who refuse video calls
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Check ownership or agency details
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Use trusted rental platforms
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Be careful with “too cheap” offers
If something feels wrong, it usually is.
Can Foreign Workers Register Their Address After Renting?
Yes, and this is very important.
Most European countries require:
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Address registration after moving in
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Proof of rental contract
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Confirmation from the landlord
Without address registration, you may not be able to:
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Open a bank account
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Get a tax number
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Access healthcare
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Renew your residence permit
Final Answer: Can Foreign Workers Rent Apartments Easily in Europe?
Yes, foreign workers can rent apartments in Europe, but it is easier if you:
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Have a valid work visa
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Have a job contract
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Start with shared housing
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Avoid peak cities at first
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Use employer or local support
With preparation and patience, most foreign workers find housing successfully.