Conclusion on private housing

In some countries undocumented migrants are not allowed to conclude a contract for renting a house. But mostly the accessibility to private housing mainly depends on a person’s financial situation.

However the racist attitudes of many owners towards immigrants put an obstacle to a person renting private housing.

Whatever the origin of an owner (native or immigrant), even when (undocumented) migrants have work and money, the private market is accessible in generally very poor conditions and exploitative prices. This is  especially the case in countries where there is a scarcity of rented housing such as Italy and Spain, which forces most people to share a flat with several other people. Many tenants end up with great debts to the owners due to their unstable financial situation.

Regardless of its many inconveniences, this sector remains the main housing solution after friends and family.

Undocumented migrants who work inside a home, caring for the elderly, cleaning and looking after children are able to stay in private housing more securely.

Although undocumented migrants could in some countries go to court to defend their rights as tenants, few do so fearing repercussions they may face due to their illegal status in Europe.

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