I am asked for a Deposit to rent an apartment. Is normal?

Yes the security deposit is always requested when signing a lease. Its amount is equal to 1 month of rent excluding charges. It could be used for your departure of the housing, to pay a possible delay of rent, charges, T.O.M. Or cover any repairs to be made at the time of the inventory.

Otherwise it will be refunded to you within 30 days if your inventory is in conformity with your inventory of places of exit.