Renting safely and spotting rental scams
Newcomers are targeted precisely because they're desperate, remote and unfamiliar with normal practice. The pattern is always the same: a great price, an absent landlord, and pressure to pay now.
Newcomers are targeted precisely because they're desperate, remote and unfamiliar with normal practice. The pattern is always the same: a great price, an absent landlord, and pressure to pay now.
Key points to understand
Never pay a deposit for a place you (or someone you trust) haven't seen inside
Never pay a deposit for a place you (or someone you trust) haven't seen inside. In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.
Wire transfers, gift cards and crypto are the scammer's tell — real landlords don't ask
Wire transfers, gift cards and crypto are the scammer's tell — real landlords don't ask. In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.
Verify who actually owns the property, and always get a signed lease
Verify who actually owns the property, and always get a signed lease. In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.
Practical tips
- Prepare your documents and translations in advance — most delays come from missing paperwork.
- Always note the office name, address, and a contact number before you go.
- Ask the community on MyHAbroad if you’re unsure — chances are someone has already been through it.
Always verify with official sources before acting on the information above.
MyHAbroad is an independent app and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or representing any government or public authority. Content is general information only — not legal, tax, medical, or financial advice. Always confirm details with the official sources above before acting.