I'm an immigrant and was charged a higher rent than others. Is this racial discrimination?

What the Law Says

The EU’s Racial Equality Directive prohibits discrimination in housing based on racial or ethnic origin — including against immigrants.

The EU Race Equality Directive (2000/43/EC) bans direct and indirect discrimination in access to housing, including rental agreements. It applies to all EU Member States and covers differences in rent, terms, or conditions based on racial or ethnic origin.

Direct discrimination occurs when someone is treated less favourably than another person in a comparable situation — for example, being charged more rent solely because you are an immigrant or from a particular ethnic background.

Indirect discrimination happens when a seemingly neutral rule (e.g., 'only tenants with local bank accounts') puts people of certain ethnic origins at a particular disadvantage — unless it’s objectively justified by a legitimate aim and proportionate.

Statutory Text

principles of equal treatment shall be applied in relation to... access to housing, including residential accommodation

— Council Directive 2000/43/EC, Art. 3(1)(h)

Statutory Text

direct discrimination shall be taken to occur where one person is treated less favourably than another is, has been or would be treated in a comparable situation

— Council Directive 2000/43/EC, Art. 2(2)(a)

Sources