For most residential tenancies in Ireland, a landlord cannot ask for more than one month’s rent as a deposit. They generally also cannot require more than one month’s rent in advance, so the combined upfront payment is normally capped at two months’ rent. Limited rules or exceptions may apply to some arrangements, including certain student-specific or cost-rental tenancies, so check the latest guidance on the RTB or gov.ie websites. If you believe you were asked for too much, keep records and consider contacting the RTB; any dispute will depend on the tenancy’s facts and the RTB’s process.