Short answer: You’ll need a valid photo ID, proof of income equal to roughly 2.5 times the monthly rent (pay stubs or bank statements), a recent credit report, and the rental application with its fee. Arriving from abroad without U.S. credit history? A passport plus 2–3 months of bank statements usually replaces the credit check.
Updated: September 29, 2026.
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The standard document checklist
| Document | What’s accepted | SETTLE tip |
|---|---|---|
| Photo ID (every applicant 18+) | Driver’s license or passport | International renters: a passport is enough — no Florida license needed |
| Proof of income | Last 1–2 months of pay stubs; or 2–3 months of bank statements; or last tax return | Self-employed? Bring 2 years of tax returns plus bank statements |
| Credit + background check | The landlord usually runs it; some accept your own report (under 30 days old) | No U.S. credit history? See below |
| Rental history | Previous landlord’s contact or a reference letter | First time renting? Bank statements carry more weight |
| Application + fee | Signed application authorizing the screening | Florida sets no legal cap — expect $50–$100 per adult |
The income rule that decides most applications
Most Miami landlords want your gross monthly income to be about 2.5 times the rent. Example: a $2,000/month apartment → roughly $5,000/month in documented income. If you fall short, many landlords will ask for a larger deposit or a few months prepaid rather than rejecting you outright.
Renting without a Social Security number
It’s common — and legal. Bring: a valid passport (plus visa if applicable), 2–3 months of bank statements showing consistent funds, proof of employment or an offer letter, and be ready for a larger upfront payment (some landlords ask international tenants for 2–3 months’ deposit or prepaid rent). You do NOT need an SSN to sign a lease in Florida.
Condos come with a second approval
Renting in a condo building? After the landlord accepts you, the association runs its own screening: a separate application, roughly $100–$150 per person or couple, 7–14 business days, sometimes an interview. Budget this time — it’s the #1 reason move-in dates slip.
What you’ll pay at signing
Typically: first month’s rent + security deposit (usually one month’s rent) + application fee. Florida law sets no maximum on deposits or application fees, so read the lease carefully. One more option to know: since 2023 (F.S. 83.491), landlords may offer a nonrefundable monthly fee instead of a deposit — it never comes back, so do the math before choosing it.
What most people don’t know
- Your deposit must sit in a separate bank account — the landlord can’t mix it with their own money (Fla. Stat. § 83.49).
- Landlords now cross-check your documents against payroll databases — inconsistent numbers get you rejected fast.
- A “police record” request is common with Miami private landlords — a recent, clean background check speeds everything up.
- Application fees are nonrefundable, even if you’re denied.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a Social Security number to rent in Miami?
No. A passport plus proof of funds works — international renters sign leases every month.
How much is the application fee?
Usually $50–$100 per adult; condo associations often charge $100–$150. Florida sets no cap.
Can the landlord also ask for the last month’s rent upfront?
Yes — “first + last + security” is legal in Florida and common with international tenants.
How long does approval take?
2–5 days with private landlords; 7–14 business days if a condo association must approve.
Yara Coker — SETTLE, relocation services in Miami.
