Securing a place to live is one of the first and most critical tasks after immigrating to a new country. Yet for many newcomers, finding rental housing without local credit history, employment verification, or a long-term financial track record can feel nearly impossible.
Landlords and property managers often rely on credit scores and local references to evaluate applicants—leaving immigrants at a disadvantage. But with the right preparation, documents, and strategy, you can still find a safe, comfortable home while you build your financial footprint.
Here’s how to navigate the rental market in your new country, even if you’re starting from scratch.
Understand What Landlords Typically Require
Across most Western countries, landlords or rental agencies usually ask for:
- Government-issued ID or passport
- Proof of income or employment
- Recent credit report or credit score
- Rental history or references
- First month’s rent and a security deposit
Without local credit or job history, expect to be asked for additional guarantees like:
- A larger security deposit (sometimes 2–3 months’ rent)
- Advance payment of several months upfront
- A guarantor or co-signer with local credit
United States
U.S. landlords often expect:
- Credit report (typically FICO score)
- Social Security Number (SSN)
- Proof of monthly income equal to 2–3x the rent
If you don’t have these:
- Offer international credit reports from services like Nova Credit
- Show large savings or offer several months of rent upfront
- Use a reputable co-signer or sponsor
- Seek out individual landlords (not big management firms) who may be more flexible
Canada
Canadian landlords usually want:
- Proof of income (job letter, pay stubs)
- Credit history (Equifax or TransUnion)
- References from previous landlords
For newcomers:
- Show a job offer or proof of sufficient savings
- Provide immigration documentation and SIN
- Look for newcomer programs by banks or local housing agencies
Some cities also have nonprofit housing agencies that assist recent immigrants in securing rentals.
United Kingdom
Private landlords and letting agents in the UK check:
- Proof of right to rent (visa, BRP)
- Proof of income or employment
- Credit check (Experian or Equifax)
- Previous landlord references
New immigrants can:
- Use savings statements or a job offer letter in place of credit history
- Offer 6–12 months’ rent in advance
- Use a guarantor based in the UK (common for students and newcomers)
Germany
In Germany, renting typically involves:
- Proof of income (salary slips or employment contract)
- SCHUFA credit report
- Anmeldung (proof of address registration)
If you’re new:
- Provide proof of sufficient funds in a German bank account
- Include a letter of explanation from your employer or university
- Try temporary or furnished apartments (e.g., Wunderflats) until you’re established
Australia
Rental applications in Australia often include:
- 100 points of ID
- Proof of income and employment
- Rental history and references
New immigrants should:
- Compile a rental resume with past landlord contacts from home country
- Use bank statements or evidence of international income
- Look into government or nonprofit housing support programs
Portugal
Portuguese landlords expect:
- Copy of passport and visa/residence permit
- NIF (tax ID number)
- Proof of income or bank funds
Tips:
- Open a local bank account and transfer funds before signing a lease
- Offer 3–6 months’ rent upfront
- Use local relocation agents who specialize in working with expats
Temporary Solutions While You Search
If long-term housing is difficult at first, consider:
- Short-term rentals (Airbnb, Furnished Finder, Homestay)
- Hostels or extended-stay hotels
- Co-living spaces that cater to digital nomads and expats
These options offer flexibility while you gather the documents needed for a formal lease.
How to Strengthen Your Application Without Credit
- Prepare a Rental Binder with:
- Copy of your passport and visa
- Immigration documents and permits
- Proof of income or bank funds
- Letter of employment or school admission
- Personal reference letters (even from your home country)
- Write a Personal Cover Letter explaining your situation, background, and intention to be a responsible tenant.
- Provide Proof of Funds—bank statements with consistent balances can replace credit history.
- Offer Rent in Advance—paying 3–6 months upfront shows commitment.
- Use Trusted Agencies—some real estate agents and rental platforms cater to newcomers and are familiar with these hurdles.
- Network Locally—word of mouth can lead to flexible landlords who rent privately.
What to Watch Out For
- Rental scams: Never send money before seeing the property or signing a verified lease
- Hidden fees: Ask for a clear breakdown of rent, utilities, deposits, and agency fees
- Lease terms: Understand the cancellation policies, duration, and renewal terms
Finding a home abroad without local credit takes effort—but it’s entirely possible. Landlords want responsible, trustworthy tenants. By presenting yourself clearly, showing financial stability, and preparing a strong application, you can make a great impression—even without a local credit file.
Start with short-term housing if needed, focus on building relationships, and don’t be discouraged by a few rejections. The right space is out there—and your first apartment is often the key to unlocking everything else in your new life.
