Spain
Rent

Overview

Renting a house in Spain in cities with high demand, such as Madrid, Valencia, Barcelona, or the Costa Blanca, can be a complex process. Due to the high demand and changes in legislation, there is always a certain risk for the landlord, and the regulations can be strict, making it not always an easy task.

You’ve probably heard about long-term and short-term rentals in Spain. Indeed, nowadays short-term rentals are the most common in Spain.

Short-term
Long-term

What is the difference
between long-term and short-term rentals?

Long-term rentals usually start with a minimum contract of 6 months, according to the new legislation. If you comply with the terms of the contract and, after the 6 months have passed, both parties wish to continue, you can stay for up to 5 years with a private landlord or 7 years with a company landlord. Once the minimum term has been completed, you can give notice as stipulated in the contract if you wish to move out without losing your security deposit. This type of rental is ideal for those planning to live in Spain for an extended period.

Short-term rentals last up to 6 or 11 months. Tenants have fewer rights and cannot automatically renew the contract once it ends. Short-term rentals are a good option for those starting their stay in Spain or needing temporary housing while they establish their permanent address in the country.

How to rent an apartment in spain?

Determine Your Needs and Budget

Decide on the location, type of property, and your monthly budget. Consider proximity to work, schools, and amenities.

Search for Properties

Use real estate websites, agencies, or local contacts. Decide whether you want a short-term or long-term rental. Our English-speaking real estate agents can help you find the property that meets your needs in any city in Spain.

Visit the Property

Inspect the property in person (or via a trusted representative) to check its condition and ensure it meets your requirements.

Prepare Documentation

Landlords usually require:

Proof of income or employment
References from previous landlords
Bank details

Sign the Rental Contract

Read the contract carefully, noting the rental term, deposit, notice period, and any additional costs (utilities, community fees). Our team of English-speaking real estate lawyers will handle the legal process, ensuring that your property is secure and that your rights and obligations are fully protected.

Pay Deposit and Initial Rent

Typically, 1–2 months’ rent as a security deposit plus the first month’s rent. Keep receipts for legal protection.

Register at the Padrón (Optional but Recommended)

Registering at the local town hall allows access to healthcare, voting (if eligible), and other municipal services.

Set Up Utilities

Connect electricity, water, gas, and internet. Ensure the contract is in your name if required.

How Charfort can help you to rent in spain as foreigner?

Local expertise and access to all real estate agencies
Assisting in the review, drafting, and signing of the lease agreement
Assisting with opening a bank account and obtaining an NIE number
Assisting in the inspection and verification of the property
Transferring the utility bills to the client’s name

Expert Consultation

City Discovery Tour with your Real Estate Agent

Rental Search Service Package

Contact us and get one of the following packages

Our team of buyer s agents in Spain

Talk with an expert

Search according to your wish list

Agents usually show only the properties in their portfolio, whereas Charfort helps you search the entire market until you find the house that interests you and fits your wish list.

Local Expertise: We guide you and provide detailed information about different areas and prices, making the property search process simpler, faster, and more efficient.

Knowledge of the Market: We help you avoid scams and ensure you pay a fair price in line with market standards and the law.

Experience and Contacts with Different Agencies: Our connections facilitate the search and smooth communication with real estate agencies and landlords.

Legal Knowledge to Protect Your Interests: Thanks to our team of lawyers, you can be confident that the contract you sign complies with the law and fully protects your interests.

Frequently asked questions
about renting in Spain

Everything you need to know about the process.

Do I need an NIE number to rent in Spain?

It is not necessary to have an NIE number to rent; what the landlord usually wants is to ensure that the tenant is financially reliable. That’s why they often request more documentation than just the NIE, such as proof of income, references, or a residency permit to confirm that you are legally living in Spain.

Can a foreigner rent a property without a bank account?

Technically, it is possible, but most landlords require a Spanish bank account to pay rent and bills monthly. Having a bank account simplifies payments, ensures legal compliance, and avoids complications with deposits and utilities, as these can be directly debited from your account.

What happens if the landlord doesn’t return the deposit?

In Spain, landlords must return the security deposit within 1 months after the tenancy ends, minus any deductions for damages.

Proof of income or employment needed for renting

Yes. Landlords usually require proof that you can pay the rent. This may include:
– Recent pay slips or employment contract
– Bank statements showing sufficient funds
– Tax returns (for self-employed tenants)
Providing these documents helps secure the rental and demonstrates financial reliability. However, it can sometimes be very subjective, depending on the individual looking to rent

Do we need to be in Spain to start the rental process?

Not at all. Many clients secure rentals before arriving, using virtual viewings and remote contract management with their agent. Charfort Rent in Spain service, it is very useful if you need the rental agreement for a visa application.

Can I get a padrón with a temporary contract?

Normally, to register at the town hall and obtain the padrón, a long-term rental contract is required. However, in cities like Barcelona, it is possible to obtain the padrón and register even with a short-term contract of 3 months.

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