How to rent safely in another country
Updated November 14, 2026 · 5 min read
Moving for a season or a contract almost always starts with finding a place to live — from far away, in an unfamiliar city and in a hurry. That is exactly what scammers make money on. Here is how to rent without getting caught.
Signs of a fake listing
- The price is noticeably lower than similar places in the same area.
- The owner is “abroad right now” and asks for money to send you the keys.
- You can’t view the place, either in person or by video.
- They rush you: “lots of people want it, send the deposit today”.
A video viewing
If you are not there yet, ask for a video call from the flat: have them show the view from the window, the building entrance and the address plate. Compare with maps and street view — it is an easy way to check the address is real.
The contract and deposit
- A contract with the address, term, price and deposit amount.
- The conditions for getting the deposit back when you move out.
- What the price includes: utilities, internet, cleaning.
- Photos of the condition on move-in — to avoid disputes later.
Don’t pay the full amount before moving in, and don’t send money to strangers by methods that can’t be reversed.
Choosing an area
If you work nights, how you get home matters. Check whether night transport runs, what a taxi from work costs and how well lit the streets near the building are.
Documents
A copy of your passport may be needed for the contract — that is normal. Never hand over the original, not even “until you pay”.
Where to look
The Housing section: flats, rooms and houses, plus short-term rentals for the first days while you look at options on the spot.