English 
Português 
Español 
Finding and renting a property in the United States is one of the first practical decisions every immigrant faces upon arriving in the country. The process follows relatively uniform standards throughout the U.S., but involves documentation, contractual terminology, and credit checks that differ substantially from what Brazilians and other foreigners are used to in their home countries. With the national average rent around $1,980 per month in 2026, being well prepared before starting your search saves time, money, and avoids unpleasant surprises.
The American rental market operates based on credit checks, proof of income, and legally binding contracts. Landlords and property managers assess each applicant as a financial risk, and newcomers without a U.S. credit history face specific challenges that can be overcome with the right strategies. This guide explains each step of the process, from the necessary documents to contract terms and additional costs you should consider.
Required Documents
Before visiting properties, prepare the documentation that landlords and property managers will require to evaluate your application. The verification aims to confirm two points: your ability to pay and your reliability as a tenant.
The most requested documents are proof of income, credit history, and identification. For income, the general rule is that your gross monthly earnings should be at least three times the rent amount. An offer letter (job offer letter), pay stubs, or tax return are the most accepted proofs. The credit score measures your financial reliability in the American system and represents the biggest obstacle for newcomers, since the history simply does not exist yet. For identification, a valid passport, visa, or Green Card is sufficient.
Understanding the Lease Agreement
The rental contract (lease agreement) is a legally binding document that protects both the tenant and the landlord. Read each clause carefully before signing. The most important terms you will encounter include the contract term, security deposit, utility bills, and subletting rules.
The most common term is a fixed 12-month period. Month-to-month contracts offer flexibility but usually cost more. The security deposit typically equals one or two months’ rent and serves as a guarantee against damages or default. Rules vary by state: in California, the limit is one month’s rent for unfurnished properties; in New York, also one month; while states like Texas, Florida, and Georgia do not impose a legal limit. The refund must generally occur within 14 to 30 days after move-out, with a detailed list of any deductions.
The utilities clause specifies which expenses are included in the rent and which are your responsibility, such as electricity, water, gas, and internet. The subletting clause determines whether you can or cannot transfer the property to third parties. Most contracts prohibit subletting without prior landlord approval.
No Credit History
The absence of a credit score is the most common obstacle for newly arrived immigrants. Landlords use this indicator to assess risk, and without it your application may be rejected or require additional guarantees. The most frequent solutions to overcome this barrier include paying a larger security deposit, with two or more months in advance, and presenting a guarantor who resides in the U.S. and has good credit and proven income.
Some additional strategies can help. Opening a secured credit card (with a deposit as collateral) as soon as you arrive starts building your history. Services like Experian Boost allow utility and streaming bill payments to be counted toward your score. Renting in apartment complexes managed by large property management companies tends to be more flexible with foreigners than individual landlords, as they have specific policies for tenants without American credit history.
Costs Beyond Rent
The monthly rent is not the only housing cost. Be prepared for additional expenses that impact your budget. Renter’s insurance protects your personal belongings against theft, fire, and other incidents. Many landlords require this policy as a condition for renting. The national average cost is $13 to $23 per month, varying by location and coverage.
Utility bills (electricity, water, gas, internet) vary by region but should be included in your financial planning. In cities like New York and San Francisco, expect to pay above the national average. Application fees between $25 and $75 are charged for each property you apply to and cover the cost of credit and background checks. These fees are usually non-refundable, so research carefully before applying to multiple properties at once.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a guarantor?
A guarantor is a person who resides in the U.S., has a good credit history and income, and signs the contract with you. This person assumes the legal responsibility to pay the rent if you are unable to fulfill the obligation. Having a guarantor significantly increases your chances of approval, especially for tenants without American credit history. There are also companies that offer institutional guarantor services for a fee.
Security deposit refund
After the end of the contract and move-out, the landlord has a period defined by state law to return the deposit. In California it is 21 days, in New York 14 days, and in Texas 30 days. Amounts may be deducted for damages exceeding normal wear and tear or unpaid rent, always accompanied by a detailed and itemized list of deductions. Document the condition of the property with photos when you move in and out to protect your rights.
Is renter’s insurance mandatory?
Legally, it is not mandatory in most states, but many landlords and property managers require it as a condition to sign the lease. Even when not required, the policy is highly recommended: with an average cost between $13 and $23 per month, it protects your personal belongings against theft, fire, water damage, and other incidents. Typical coverage includes between $15,000 and $30,000 in personal property and $100,000 in liability.
Victoria Harper
Editor-in-Chief
Leading journalism and editorial content at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps make immigration topics clear, trustworthy, and easy to understand. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.
