Renting in Spain can be one of the hardest parts of moving—especially if you don’t have a local job or contract yet. Whether you’re coming on a Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) or a Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV). You’ve packed your bags, dreamed of Spanish tapas and golden coastlines, but there’s one thing you must prepare for:
👉 Renting a place in Spain without a job contract isn’t as easy as it looks.
Renting in Spain
Before renting in Spain, make sure you’re familiar with the basics of living in Spain as a newcomer.
Here’s what you really need to know about Spain’s rental market—especially if you’re heading to Madrid, Barcelona, or Valencia without traditional proof of income or local employment.
🏙️ Spain’s Major Cities: What to Expect When Renting
🧭 Renting in Madrid: What Expats Should Expect
Spain’s capital is buzzing with life, culture, and neighborhoods that range from historic (Malasaña) to upscale (Salamanca).
- 🏷️ Average rent for a 1-bed flat in the city center: €1,000–€1,500/month
- 🧾 Landlords often ask for:
- 1–2 months’ deposit
- Work contract or proof of stable income
- Spanish bank account or guarantor
🌊 Renting in Barcelona: Costs & Requirements
This coastal city is artsy, international, and highly competitive for renters. Areas like Eixample, Gràcia, and Poble Sec are favorites among expats.
- 🏷️ Average rent for a 1-bed: €1,200–€1,700/month
- 🧾 Expect requests for:
- Work contract or autónomo (freelancer) income proof
- At least 2 months’ rent upfront
- NIE (foreigner ID number)
☀️ Renting in Valencia: Why It’s Popular with Nomads
A growing favorite among digital nomads for its affordability, beach lifestyle, and slower pace. Areas like Ruzafa and El Carmen are vibrant and central.
- 🏷️ Average rent: €700–€1,200/month
- 🧾 Requirements are slightly more relaxed, but many still ask for:
- Income documents
- Spanish references
- 1–2 months’ deposit
Apartments in Bilbao, Spain
📑 What Landlords Ask For: Documents Needed When Renting in Spain Without a Job
If you’re new to Spain and don’t have a Spanish job contract or tax return history (yet), landlords may view you as a “risk.” Common requirements include:
🔒 Standard Rental Requirements:
- NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero)
- Spanish bank account (for auto-pay setup)
- Work contract or proof of income
- 1–2 months’ rent as deposit
- Sometimes 1 month agency fee
Check current listings at Idealista—Spain’s leading housing platform.
⚠️ For Newcomers Without Employment:
You may be asked for 6–12 months of rent upfront as a form of guarantee. Some landlords might flat-out decline non-residents or non-workers without proof of income.
Signing a rental contract
💡 Tips & Advice for Navigating the Rental Market
🛑 1. Don’t Sign a Lease Before Arriving
Scams are real. It’s best to wait until you’re on the ground. You’ll see the flat, feel the neighborhood, and meet the agent in person.
🏡 2. Start with Airbnb or Short-Term Rentals
Book a place for 1–3 months on Airbnb, Spotahome, or Flatio. Use that time to explore different areas and build local proof of address.
Sites like Spotahome and Flatio are great for digital nomads looking for flexible leases.
📂 3. Prepare a “Rental Dossier”
This is common in Spain. Include:
- Passport + NIE
- Visa type (DNV/NLV)
- Proof of savings or foreign income
- Reference letter from a previous landlord or employer
- Screenshot of bank account balance
🗺️ 4. Walk the Neighborhood
Don’t rely only on Idealista or Fotocasa. Some of the best finds come from walking around and spotting “Se Alquila” signs with phone numbers.
🧑💻 5. Use a Local Rental Agent—But Be Smart
They may charge 1 month’s rent as a fee, but they also help navigate landlord demands. Make sure your agent is officially registered.
💬 Rental Vocabulary You’ll Want to Know
| Spanish Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Fianza | Deposit (usually 1-2 months) |
| Alquiler | Rent |
| Contrato | Lease/contract |
| Piso | Apartment |
| Comunidad | HOA or building fees (sometimes included) |
| Empadronamiento | City registration (needed for residency documents) |
✨ Final Word: Renting in Spain Without a Job Takes Planning
Yes, it can feel intimidating—especially if you don’t have a local job or contract. But with preparation, the right paperwork, and a bit of flexibility, you’ll find the perfect spot to call home.
Start with a short stay. Walk the neighborhoods. Talk to locals.
Then when it’s time to sign your lease, you’ll know exactly where—and how—you want to live.
Still deciding on a visa? Check out our Ultimate Spain Visa Guide for all your options.