Ireland Updates Rental Laws with Long-Term Security
The Act introduces 6-year minimum rolling tenancies and 2% rent caps for new rentals from March 2026, making it harder for digital nomads, expats, and long-term travelers in Ireland to secure short-term housing or exit leases early due to relocation needs. This could limit flexibility for frequent movers despite no direct impact on visas, banking, insurance, or travel.
Ireland Updates Rental Laws with Long-Term Security
Ireland has officially implemented the Residential Tenancies (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2026, a major shift in the country's housing market. As of March 1, 2026, new private rentals are subject to rolling 6-year minimum tenancies. This means once you have lived in a property for six months, you gain security of tenure for six years, provided you meet your basic tenant obligations.
The law also introduces a strict national rent cap. Annual increases for new tenancies are now limited to the lower of 2% or the Consumer Price Index (CPI). To prevent price gouging, landlords must justify initial rent prices using three comparable properties from the RTB Rent Register, a tool that is updated daily.
Who is affected
These changes primarily impact expats and digital nomads looking for long-term housing. While the law provides unprecedented security, it makes finding flexible, short-term leases significantly harder. Landlords may be more selective with applicants now that "no-fault" evictions are banned for those owning four or more properties.
If you are a tourist staying in a hotel or a short-term Airbnb, these rules do not apply to you. The Act only covers private residential tenancies. It also does not change any existing rental agreements signed before March 1.
What to do
If you are planning a move to Ireland, you should prepare for a more formal and competitive application process.
- Check the RTB Rent Register before signing a lease to ensure the requested rent aligns with the new legal caps.
- Be aware that while you have a 6-year security window, you are still responsible for your lease terms if you decide to leave early without a valid break clause.
- Keep an eye on nomad news for updates on how these laws affect housing availability in major hubs like Dublin and Cork.
Small landlords with three or fewer properties still retain limited rights to terminate a lease if they intend to sell the property or use it for a family member. However, they must still provide formal notice and follow RTB guidelines.
Read our full Ireland guide for the complete picture.