🇵🇹 Renting in Portugal: How to Find Apartments & Rooms in Lisbon, Porto & Beyond

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 Portugal’s housing market has become very competitive in recent years, especially in popular cities like Lisbon and Porto. Rent prices have risen sharply, and apartments are often snapped up within days. Landlords usually ask for proof of income, a rental guarantor, and several months of rent upfront.

No matter your background, there are ways to find a place to start your new life in Portugal.

Where to Start Your Search

  1. Online Platforms

    • Idealista.pt — Portugal’s most popular real estate website, with listings for apartments, studios, and houses.

    • OLX Imóveis — classifieds platform including rentals, shared apartments, and short-term stays.

    • Imovirtual.pt — another popular portal for long-term rentals.

  2. Facebook Expat Groups
    Many expats find housing faster by joining Facebook groups dedicated to rentals in Portugal, such as:

    • “Lisbon Expats Housing”

    • “Porto Apartments & Rooms”

    • Groups for Brazilians, Angolans, and Mozambicans in Portugal often share rental opportunities for Portuguese-speaking expats.

💡 Pro Tip: Always verify listings and never send money before visiting or confirming the contract, especially in high-demand areas.

Housing Options by Budget and Situation

  • Expats looking for better life conditions or moving with limited funds:

    • Shared flats or rooms are often the easiest way to start living in Portugal.

    • These are ideal for meeting other expats, learning about neighborhoods, and gradually exploring permanent housing.

    • Small cities like Braga, Coimbra, and Setúbal offer affordable alternatives to Lisbon and Porto.

  • Expats arriving with a solid career, company job offer, or remote income:

    • Many employers provide accommodation or housing assistance for senior positions or specialized roles.

    • Having a stable income allows access to more expensive apartments in prime locations, often with fewer bureaucratic hurdles.

  • Flexible long-term strategies:

    • Start with a short-term rental or shared flat while you search for your ideal place.

    • Use online portals and Facebook groups to scout neighborhoods, prices, and available options.

    • Once you’re settled, move into a private apartment or house that fits your budget and lifestyle.

Different Experiences by Nationality

  • Brazilians, Angolans, Mozambicans, and other CPLP nationals: May find landlords more flexible, especially in communities with Portuguese-speaking tenants.

  • Other EU citizens and non-EU expats: Often need more paperwork, like bank statements, guarantors, or proof of employment.

  • Tip for everyone: Prepare a digital rental application folder including ID, proof of income, NIF, and references — it makes your application stand out.

Additional Tips

  • Timing: Start searching 1–2 months before arrival — waiting until you land can be stressful and costly.

  • Contracts: Portuguese rental contracts usually require a 12-month minimum, but some landlords allow shorter terms if documentation is strong.

  • Shared Apartments: Great for newcomers to save money, meet people, and explore the city before committing to a long-term rental.

💡 Summary
Finding housing in Portugal requires patience, flexibility, and preparation. Whether you’re arriving with limited funds, looking for a fresh start, or coming with a high-paying job, the combination of online portals, Facebook groups, shared flats, and company-provided housing ensures there’s a way to start your life in Portugal.

For better understanding, watch our video below. 



Location: Portugal

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