Relocating to Ireland—whether for work, study, or lifestyle reasons—can be both exciting and challenging. One of the most stressful parts of the move is securing a place to live before you even arrive. The Irish rental market is competitive, fast-paced, and in high demand, especially in major cities like Dublin, Cork, and Galway. Understandably, many people want to know: Can I rent property in Ireland before setting foot in the country?
The short answer is yes, you can rent in Ireland before arriving, but it’s not always straightforward. However, with the right preparation, tools, and strategies, it’s entirely possible to secure accommodation remotely and step off the plane into your new Irish home.
Why Renting in Ireland Remotely Is Challenging
There are a few obstacles that make long-distance renting in Ireland difficult. Most Irish landlords and letting agents prefer to meet tenants in person before signing any agreements. Viewings are often mandatory, and due to rental scams, many renters and landlords are cautious about long-distance transactions.
Moreover, with demand far outpacing supply, especially in urban areas, properties tend to go off the market quickly—often within a few days. If you’re not physically present, it can be difficult to act fast enough to secure a lease.
There’s also the matter of credibility. Landlords want to know that you’re a reliable tenant. Without Irish rental history, references, or employment documents, you might find it hard to compete with local applicants.
How to Increase Your Chances of Renting Remotely
To successfully rent property in Ireland before arriving, you’ll need a solid approach. Here are a few key steps that can boost your chances:
1. Prepare Your Documents in Advance
Have everything ready: proof of income or employment, a letter from your employer or college, personal and professional references, photo ID, and a short introduction letter. If you’ve rented elsewhere, include rental history and landlord references. These documents help establish your credibility from afar.
2. Consider Short-Term Accommodation First
If you’re struggling to secure a long-term lease remotely, consider booking a short-term rental or Airbnb for your arrival. This gives you a base while you search locally and attend viewings. It’s common for newcomers to Ireland to spend a few weeks house hunting after arrival.
3. Use Reputable Rental Platforms
Always use verified websites like FindQo.ie. These platforms list legitimate rentals, although competition is fierce. Avoid sending money to anyone without verifying the landlord or viewing the property—rental scams are unfortunately common.
4. Leverage Digital Tools like Tenantin.ie
One of the most effective ways to improve your remote rental search is by using Tenantin.ie. This innovative Irish platform allows you to create a detailed rental resume that you can share with landlords or letting agents. Think of it like a CV for tenants—it includes your rental history, references, and personal information in one professional-looking profile. What’s more, if you’re actively house hunting, you can activate the “On a Hunt” feature, which connects your profile to live listings on FindQo.ie. Your Tenantin profile is automatically sent to suitable landlords, and you receive daily property alerts straight to your email. This feature is especially helpful for international renters who can’t be constantly refreshing listing sites or calling letting agents in different time zones. By using Tenantin.ie, you can build trust with Irish landlords—even from abroad—and demonstrate that you’re a serious, prepared, and responsible tenant.
Can You Sign a Lease Without Being in Ireland?
In some cases, yes. If you can build enough trust with a landlord or letting agent, you may be able to sign a lease remotely. Virtual viewings via Zoom or WhatsApp have become more common, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. Some landlords may be willing to rent out the property based on a video viewing and strong documentation.
However, others may still insist on in-person viewings. It depends on the landlord, the area, and how competitive the property is. In rural areas or less sought-after locations, landlords may be more flexible with remote arrangements. In major cities, competition can make it harder to secure a lease without being present.
What Cities or Regions Offer More Flexibility?
If you’re open to living outside of Dublin, you may find more flexible landlords in smaller cities like Limerick, Waterford, or Kilkenny. These areas still offer great quality of life, lower rent prices, and growing job opportunities.
Using Tenantin.ie, you can filter preferences by region or budget, helping you discover properties in areas that suit your plans and increase your chances of success.
Avoiding Rental Scams from Abroad
Sadly, international renters are more vulnerable to rental scams in Ireland. Never transfer money via Western Union or unverified platforms. Avoid listings with no photos or those that pressure you into quick decisions.
Tenantin.ie’s trusted profile system reduces this risk by allowing you to share your verified profile only with real landlords and agents, cutting down on dodgy interactions. It helps establish trust between both parties, which is essential when you can’t meet face-to-face.
Final Thoughts: Yes, You Can Rent Before Arriving—If You’re Smart About It
So, can you rent a property in Ireland before arriving? Yes—but you’ll need to be strategic, prepared, and cautious. The key to success lies in having the right tools and presenting yourself as a trustworthy tenant from the outset.
Tenantin.ie is one of the few platforms specifically designed to make this process easier. It streamlines your application process, helps you connect with landlords faster, and positions you as a credible renter—even from thousands of miles away.
If you’re preparing to move to Ireland soon, don’t leave housing to the last minute. Start building your Tenantin profile today, activate your “On a Hunt” status, and take proactive steps to secure your new Irish home before you land.
