Finding rental accommodation in Spain is often more difficult than it seems at first glance, especially for foreigners. High demand, financial requirements, and additional costs can significantly affect your budget and moving schedule. Learn more about renting accommodation in Spain, the rules, and important details for tenants

The rental market in Spain remains one of the most dynamic in Europe, and interest from foreigners is steadily growing. According to financial analysts and specialized media, in particular Finance.ua, the issue of housing is increasingly becoming a key factor for those planning to move or stay in the country for a long time. That is why it is important to understand the rental conditions, cost levels, and requirements of landlords in advance.

We will discuss these aspects and practical details further in this article.

Are you planning to move, work or stay in the EU for a long time and don't know where to start?

To avoid getting lost in the changes to visa and migration policy, use the immigration guide from Visit World. It contains up-to-date information on obtaining a residence permit and citizenship in different countries, step-by-step instructions, requirements for applicants, a list of documents, deadlines and costs. The guide will be sent to your email in PDF format in just a few minutes and will help you plan your legal move without unnecessary stress.

How much does it cost to rent a home in Spain, and what determines the price?

The cost of rent in Spain is primarily influenced by location. Large cities and tourist centers traditionally have higher prices, as demand there consistently exceeds supply. In the capital and popular metropolitan areas, the average rental rate for a separate apartment starts at four-digit amounts in euros, and renting a room also requires a substantial budget.

In less popular regions, the financial burden is lower, but the difference is not noticeable everywhere. The Mediterranean and Atlantic coasts remain areas of high demand, which is automatically reflected in prices. Analysts expect rents to continue to rise in 2026, although the pace may be more moderate than in previous years. For tenants, this means the need to plan a budget with a margin and carefully evaluate alternative locations.

We remind you that from 2026, Spain has changed its visa and immigration rules.

What documents do landlords in Spain ask for?

The rental procedure in Spain involves checking the tenant's solvency. Most often, landlords ask for a foreigner's identification number (NIE), proof of legal income, and a document confirming employment. This approach is due to the high risks for landlords in a saturated market.

In the absence of a standard set of documents, renting is still possible, but on different terms. Landlords often insist on advance payment for several months in advance, sometimes for six months or even a year. Given the average prices, this means significant initial costs. Therefore, preparing documents before you start looking for accommodation significantly increases your chances of finding an option without additional financial requirements.

We discussed visas for job seekers in Spain in our previous article.

Additional costs: utilities and maintenance

Rent is not the only expense. Utilities in Spain are usually paid separately and include water, electricity, and other basic services. On average, monthly bills range from a few dozen to over a hundred euros, depending on the size of the apartment and consumption.

The winter period requires special attention. Many homes do not have central heating, so heating is provided by electricity or alternative systems. This significantly increases bills during the cold months. Separately, it is worth considering the cost of the internet and possible payments for building maintenance, which depend on the type of residential complex and its infrastructure.

Rules and conditions for obtaining a digital nomad visa in Spain — collected here.

What should you consider before signing a contract?

Before signing a lease agreement, it is important to carefully check the terms and conditions and the list of expenses specified in the contract. The agreement usually contains provisions on the deposit, the lease term, and the termination procedure. A clear understanding of these points helps to avoid financial disputes in the future.

It is also advisable to assess your long-term plans for staying in the country. Renting accommodation is closely linked to the legal status of a foreigner, as proof of address is often required for processing documents. That is why the issue of housing should be considered in conjunction with the migration and legal aspects of staying in Spain.

To legally reside abroad, you need to understand the requirements for a residence permit and other formalities in advance. The immigration guide from the Visit World portal, which contains up-to-date information on the procedures for obtaining residence permits and citizenship in different countries, will help you with this. The guide in PDF format is sent to your email in a few minutes and covers the list of documents, the cost of processing, the processing time, and practical tips for adaptation.

Order the guide from Visit World to get a clear algorithm of actions and confidently plan your life abroad!

Reminder! The Spanish government has announced the launch of a legalization program for hundreds of thousands of illegal immigrants already living in the country. The new rules are expected to allow many to obtain the right to live and work. Read about the conditions for legalizing migrants in Spain, the requirements for applicants, and the possible consequences of this decision here.

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