Demanding sex in exchange for accommodation is now a criminal offence in Ireland after new ‘sex for rent’ laws came into effect on Tuesday.

The new legislation makes it illegal for a person to seek or accept sexual acts as a condition of offering or continuing accommodation, with the measures aimed at protecting people who may be vulnerable while searching for a place to live.

Student representatives have welcomed the move but warn that international students remain among those most at risk, as they often have few alternatives when struggling to find housing.

Sean De Búrca, President of the University of Galway Students’ Union, said the ongoing accommodation crisis leaves many international students in an especially vulnerable position.

‘International students are definitely more vulnerable,’ he said.

‘When it comes to domestic students, typically they’ll have the option to move back home, either on a temporary basis or in many cases more long-term.

‘They might have an incredibly long commute, whereas international students don’t even have that option.’

Mr. De Búrca said students arriving from overseas can find themselves under immense pressure to secure accommodation before the academic year begins, making them more susceptible to exploitative situations.

The new offence was introduced following growing concern over reports of landlords and accommodation providers allegedly seeking sexual acts instead of rent or reduced rental payments.

The legislation is intended to close a gap in the law by making such demands explicitly criminal, regardless of whether any sexual activity ultimately takes place.