Independent information for migrants in PortugalChecked 20/08/2026
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Home›Living in Portugal›Housing and renting
HABITAÇÃO

Before handing over money for a home, verify everything.

Renting is an area where urgency can expose migrants to scams. Contract terms, landlord identity, receipts, address and property conditions should be checked carefully.

Checked 20/08/2026Practical guidance
What you need to know

Start with the essentials

01

Written contract

Ask for and read the contract before paying. Check the address, rent, duration, deposit, included expenses and the parties' identities.

02

Rent receipts

The Tax Authority states that landlords must issue a receipt when receiving rent, deposits or advance payments; there are lawful exemptions from the electronic format, but payments without evidence should not become routine.

03

Address evidence

Keep the contract, receipts and supporting documents. They may be relevant for tax address, administrative procedures and proof of residence.

04

Rental support

The Housing Portal maintains programmes such as Porta 65 Jovem and Porta 65+. Porta 65 Jovem is generally aimed at young people aged 18–35, with specific couple and eligibility rules.

Important: Do not transfer a deposit or several months' rent just because you received photos, an identity document by message or a promise to “hold” the property. Verify that the property exists and that the person has authority to rent it.