Skip to content 
For expats moving to Portugal, renting is usually the first step. Whether you’re moving to Lisbon for work, retiring to the Algarve or relocating your family to Porto, it takes some preparation to find the right home.
Portugal has plenty of rental properties, from city apartments to family homes to villas on the coast. Demand is still strong in popular areas, though, and newcomers can struggle with landlords, paperwork and unfamiliar rental practices.
This guide looks at how to rent property in Portugal, what to expect from the market, how much to budget and what to check before you move in.
Portugal Rental Market Overview
Portugal’s rental market varies a lot by region. Lisbon, Porto, Cascais and parts of the Algarve draw strong demand from locals, international professionals, students and retirees.
Well-priced properties in sought-after neighborhoods can get several inquiries soon after they’re listed. That makes preparation especially important if you’re a foreigner without a Portuguese employment contract or local references.
Rents also depend on the property’s condition, energy efficiency, distance to transport and whether it’s furnished.
In the Algarve, seasonality matters too. Some places advertised in winter are only available until the start of the summer tourist season. If you’re relocating permanently, make sure the landlord is offering a genuine long-term residential lease.
Average Rental Prices in Portugal by City
Rents in Portugal vary a lot by city, neighborhood, property condition and size. Lisbon is still one of the most expensive places to rent, while cities like Braga and Coimbra are usually more affordable.
The table below shows rough monthly asking rents for a two-bedroom apartment (T2) of about 90 m².
| City | Asking Rent per m² | Estimated Monthly Rent (T2, 90 m²) |
|---|---|---|
| Lisbon | €25.10 | €2,259 |
| Porto | €19.00 | €1,710 |
| Funchal | €16.80 | €1,512 |
| Faro | €14.80 | €1,332 |
| Aveiro | €14.40 | €1,296 |
| Setúbal | €13.70 | €1,233 |
| Coimbra | €12.80 | €1,152 |
| Braga | €10.70 | €963 |
Source: Idealista, September 2026. The figures are rough estimates, calculated by multiplying each city’s asking rent per square meter by 90 m². They aren’t observed average rents for T2 apartments.
Actual rents can be higher or lower depending on the neighborhood, the property’s condition, whether it’s furnished and how much is available. Newly renovated apartments in central locations can cost a lot more.
Additional Costs When Renting a Home in Portugal
Monthly rent is only part of your budget.
Electricity, water, gas and internet are usually paid separately unless the contract says otherwise. What you pay depends on the property, your household size, the heating system and how much you use.
Ask whether condominium charges or maintenance costs are included in the rent. Those are generally the landlord’s responsibility unless you agree otherwise within the rules.
Before you sign, work out how much you’ll need for the first month’s rent, the security deposit and any advance rent. Under Article 1076 of the Portuguese Civil Code, the deposit is generally capped at two months’ rent, and advance rent can be agreed in writing for up to two months.
For example, if you rent an apartment for €1,200 a month, you might need €1,200 for the first month and €2,400 for a two-month deposit, which makes €3,600 upfront. Advance rent can be added on top, within the legal limits.
How to Find Rental Property in Portugal
Most rental searches begin online. Two of Portugal’s best-known property portals are Idealista and Imovirtual, where you can filter listings by location, budget, size and other features. Casa Sapo and local real estate agencies are worth a look too.
Search using Portuguese property classifications. A T1 usually means one bedroom, a T2 has two bedrooms and a T3 has three.
Also check whether the property is furnished, whether parking is included and whether pets are allowed.
Working With a Real Estate Agent
Finding a rental from abroad can be hard, especially if you don’t know the local neighborhoods, rental practices or Portuguese. Most traditional real estate agents represent the property owner, but you can also work with an independent property advisor who represents you as a prospective tenant.
At Portugal Residency Advisors, our property search service helps both buyers and tenants. We find suitable properties, arrange viewings, negotiate rental terms and coordinate with landlords and agents.
Learn more about how an independent Portugal Buyer’s Agent can represent your interests during a property search.
Documents Needed to Rent Property in Portugal
The landlord usually wants to know who the prospective tenant is and that they will be able to pay the rent.
Frequently asked documents are a passport or national identity card, a Portuguese tax identification number (NIF) and proof of income.
If you are in work, you can send in payslips or a contract of employment. Retirees can use pension statements, while self-employed applicants may be asked for tax returns or bank statements.
Some landlords will also require a guarantor, known in Portugal as a fiador, particularly if the tenants do not have a Portuguese income or rental history.
A guarantor is not automatically required by law for every residential lease. Whether one is requested depends on the landlord and the circumstances of the application.
If you have not yet obtained your Portuguese tax number, see our guide to getting a NIF in Portugal.
What to Check During Property Viewings
Property photographs rarely tell the whole story, particularly in older Portuguese buildings.
During a viewing, pay attention to natural light, ventilation, insulation and signs of dampness. Ask about the heating of the property in winter, and whether the windows are well insulated, both thermally and acoustically.
Test the water pressure, inspect appliances and check the condition of bathrooms and kitchen fittings.
Location matters just as much as the apartment itself. Consider public transport, parking, supermarkets, healthcare facilities and commute times.
For families, proximity to schools and access to outdoor space may be particularly important.
If possible, visit the neighbourhood at different times of day. A quiet street during the morning may be considerably busier in the evening.
Get In Touch With a Portugal Property Specialist
Portugal Residency Advisors® has assisted numerous international investors in successfully investing in Portugal. Discover how our trusted, all-in-one solution makes your investment journey smart and simple.
Signing a Rental Agreement in Portugal
Renting Property in Portugal With Pets
It might take a bit more planning to locate a rental property that allows dogs or cats.
Some landlords want tenants with no animals, some are okay with pets. This can reduce the number of suitable properties, particularly in competitive rental markets.
When you contact agents or landlords let them know your situation early on and confirm any relevant conditions before arranging a viewing.
For practical advice on finding pet-friendly accommodation, discussing conditions with landlords and understanding the relevant rules, read our Renting in Portugal With Pets guide.
Setting Up Utilities After Renting a Property
Once you have signed the rental contract and collected the keys, it’s time to set up essential services like electricity, water, gas and internet.
In some cases, the utilities are already connected, and you only need to transfer the contracts into your name. In others, you may need to establish new service agreements.
Most providers require identification, a Portuguese tax number (NIF), the property address and, in some cases, a copy of the rental agreement.
Before you move in, you must find out which services are being used, take readings of the meters and determine are any outstanding accounts that must be transferred or closed.
For more information, read our Setting Up Utilities in Portugal guide.
Common Mistakes When Renting in Portugal
One common mistake is choosing a property based only on photographs or location. Heating, insulation, noise and maintenance can have a significant effect on everyday comfort.
Another is paying money before verifying the property, the landlord’s authority to rent it and the terms of the proposed agreement.
Foreign tenants should also avoid assuming that every advertised rental is available throughout the year. This is particularly common in tourist destinations where some owners offer seasonal accommodation arrangements.
Finally, do not underestimate the time it takes to make arrangements for viewings, to negotiate terms and to draw up the necessary paperwork.
Having a realistic budget and priorities to begin your search will make the process a whole lot easier.
How Portugal Residency Advisors Can Help
enting a property from abroad can be tricky, especially if you’re not familiar with the local neighborhoods, rental practices and documentation required.
Portugal Residency Advisors help international clients to locate properties, arrange viewings, liaise with landlords and estate agents and manage the rental process.
Whether you’re moving for work, retirement or family reasons, we can help you find accommodation to suit your needs and budget.
Your Questions Answered
Can foreigners rent property in Portugal?
Yes. Foreign nationals can rent residential property in Portugal, even if they do not have a Portuguese residence permit yet. Landlords can ask for identification, proof of income and other supporting documents.
Do I need a NIF to rent property in Portugal?
Yes. A Portuguese tax number (NIF) is required to sign a rental contract in Portugal. It is also necessary for paying rent through the banking system and for registering the lease with the Portuguese tax authorities.
Is it difficult to rent property in Portugal as an American?
If you are a US applicant, you may be able to rent property in Portugal, although some landlords may not be familiar with US income documents, credit history or employment arrangements. Preparing evidence of income and explaining your relocation plans can help.
Do I need a Portuguese bank account?
Having a Portuguese bank account is not a legal requirement to rent a home but it can make rent payments, utilities and other arrangements easier. Some landlords may prefer receiving payments from a Portuguese or European bank account.
Are utilities included in rental prices?
eldom. Electricity, water, gas and Internet are usually paid separately, although some furnished or temporary rentals may include some utilities. Always confirm what is covered by the advertised rent.
Should I rent before buying property in Portugal?
If you’re not familiar with the country, it’s often a good idea to rent first. It gives a chance to check out the different neighborhoods, get an idea of commute times and explore nearby amenities before purchasing a long-term property.
Excellent
4.9 | 54 Reviews
TABLE OF CONTENTS
LOOKING TO INVEST IN PORTUGAL
