Long-term rental in Portugal in 2025: complete guide for foreigners

Finding a long-term rental in Portugal has become more competitive in recent years, especially in cities such as Lisbon, Porto, and popular coastal areas like the Algarve. Rising demand from expats, remote workers, and digital nomads has tightened the rental market — but renting long term is still absolutely possible when you know where to look and how the system works. This guide walks you through everything you need to know in 2025: rental prices, required documents, trusted websites, scams to avoid, and negotiation tips.

Why Portugal is so attractive for long-term rentals

Portugal offers a lifestyle that mixes European structure with a warmer, more relaxed Mediterranean pace. The country is safe, relatively affordable, and full of outdoor activities: beaches, vineyards, surf towns, and historic cities all within a short train ride. English is widely spoken, public transport is inexpensive, and there is a large and welcoming expat community — especially in Lisbon, Porto, Cascais, Braga, and parts of the Algarve.

For many foreigners, long-term renting is the perfect way to test the country before committing to a real-estate purchase or residency plan.

Average rental prices in 2025

Prices vary depending on location and property type. Here is an updated overview:

• Lisbon (city center): €1,300 – €2,500 for a one-bedroom / €2,000 – €4,500 for a two-bedroom
• Porto: €900 – €1,700 for a one-bedroom / €1,600 – €3,000 for a two-bedroom
• Cascais / Estoril coastline: €1,500 – €3,200 (popular with expats and families)
• Braga: €650 – €1,200 (one of the best value-for-money cities)
• Algarve (Lagos / Faro / Albufeira): €800 – €1,500 off-season, significantly higher in summer

In tourist areas (especially the Algarve and central Lisbon), prices can fluctuate heavily between winter and summer. For a stable price, always look for a lease of 12 months or more — anything shorter is considered “temporary rental” and landlords often charge much more.

Documents required to sign a rental contract

Most landlords require:

• Passport or ID
• NIF number (Portuguese tax identification number)
• Proof of income (payslips, remote-work contract, or bank statements)
• Portuguese bank account (not always required, but highly recommended)

If you don’t yet have a bank account or NIF, many agencies now accept a bank account from abroad — however, some landlords still insist on a Portuguese IBAN for direct debit payments.

Where to find long-term rental listings (trusted platforms)

These websites are widely used by locals and expats:

• Idealista.pt — most popular platform in Portugal
• Imovirtual.com — large selection, includes agency listings
• Casa.sapo.pt — great for the Algarve and smaller towns
• Local Facebook Groups — useful but be very careful (many scams)

Tip: If a listing shows up on multiple platforms with different prices, the lowest one usually reveals whether it’s posted by the owner or an agency.

Understanding rental contracts in Portugal

Most long-term rental agreements fall into one of two categories:

• Contrato de arrendamento — the standard long-term contract (1 to 5 years)
• Arrendamento de curta duração — temporary contracts (typically 3 to 11 months)

Key points to review before signing:

• Monthly rent and due date
• Whether utilities are included
• Deposit amount (usually 2 months + 1 month rent upfront)
• Notice period (usually 60 to 120 days)
• Who is responsible for maintenance and repairs

Rental contracts are legally binding, and landlords can only increase rent based on government indexation limits.

Deposits, guarantees, and upfront payments

The usual upfront payment structure is:

• 1 month for the first rental payment
• 2 months deposit (sometimes only 1 month)
• + 1 month as a “fiador” replacement (if you don’t have a local guarantor)

A fiador is a guarantor — a Portuguese resident who agrees to take financial responsibility if you stop paying rent. Most expats don’t have one, so landlords often request an extra deposit instead.

How to avoid rental scams

Scams unfortunately exist, especially when demand is high. Red flags include:

• Landlord refuses a video call or viewing
• Price is far below market average
• They ask for money before sending a contract
• They refuse to give the property’s full address

Golden rule: never send money without a signed contract.

Negotiating the rent

Negotiation is common in Portugal. You can successfully negotiate if:

• You offer a 12-month lease or longer
• You show clear proof of income
• You have funds available in your bank account

Offering to pay 3 to 6 months upfront sometimes unlocks a significant discount, especially in tourist regions during winter.

Should you use a real-estate agent?

Real-estate agents simplify the process, especially when you’re abroad. In Portugal, the landlord usually pays agency fees, not the tenant. Some agencies even help with NIF, bank account setup, and residency paperwork.

For busy expats or those relocating with family, using an agent is often the fastest way to secure housing.

Long-term rental vs. buying real estate

Many foreigners choose to rent first, especially while exploring different regions. Renting allows you to:

• Understand neighborhoods and local culture
• Learn cost of living variations
• Make a more informed purchase decision later

If you eventually decide to buy, renting first is a smart move.

Final tips for a smooth rental process

• Get your NIF number as soon as possible
• Open a Portuguese bank account (makes payments easier)
• Save listings quickly — apartments disappear fast
• If possible, arrive during off-season (October to March)

With the right approach, renting long term in Portugal in 2025 is 100% achievable — even in competitive cities. Take your time, compare neighborhoods, and always protect yourself with a proper contract.