Just what makes moving to Portugal from Canada appealing for expats?
This post will delve into the finer points of the relocation, like visas, citizenship, living costs, plus advantages and disadvantages.
In particular, we’ll talk about:
- Can a Canadian move to Portugal?
- How easy is it for a Canadian to move to Portugal?
- How can a Canadian get Portuguese citizenship?
- Can you have dual citizenship in Canada and Portugal?
- Is cost of living in Portugal cheap?
- Pros and cons of moving to Portugal from Canada
If you are looking to invest as an expat or high-net-worth individual, which is what I specialize in, you can email me (advice@adamfayed.com) or WhatsApp (+44-7393-450-837).
This includes if you are looking for a second opinion or alternative investments.
Some of the facts might change from the time of writing, and nothing written here is formal advice.
For updated guidance, please contact me.
Immigrating from Canada to Portugal Overview
Can a Canadian move to Portugal?
Absolutely. And many are choosing to do so due to the country’s appealing lifestyle, favorable climate, and lower cost of living compared to Canada.
How easy is it for a Canadian to move to Portugal?
There are several different visa pathways available for moving from Canada to Portugal, such as:
- the Golden Visa for investors
- the Digital Nomad Visa for remote workers
- the D7 visa for retirees or those with passive income
Because each choice considers various situations, it is simpler for people to choose the best course of action for them.
Within three months of their arrival in Portugal, Canadians must apply for a residence permit and submit the required paperwork like proof of housing and financial stability. This process is doable with the right planning.
How can a Canadian get Portuguese citizenship?
They are eligible to apply after five years of lawful residency in Portugal. The procedure involves showing one’s language skills and social integration in the country.
Canadians can also obtain residency in Portugal through the Golden Visa Program by making eligible investments. The chance to become a citizen or a permanent resident in just five years comes after.
Can you have dual citizenship in Canada and Portugal?
Indeed, both nations allow their citizens to be dual nationals. Obtaining Portuguese citizenship does not require giving up Canadian citizenship.
Cost of living in Portugal vs Canada
Is cost of living in Portugal cheap?
Canada has a 44.5% higher living expenses than Portugal excluding rent and nearly 42% higher with rent.
Rental prices in Canada are almost 36% higher vs in Portugal.
Grocery prices and dining out in Canada respectively costs 63.3% and 57.5% more too.
Pros and cons of moving to Portugal from Canada
Advantages of moving to Portugal
- Lower cost of living
- Favorable climate
- There is much culture and history to explore and enjoy
- The Portuguese are known for their hospitality
- Various visa pathways are available
- Portugal offers the Non-Habitual Resident or NHR scheme, which can give certain tax savings for new residents in 10 years.
Cons of moving to Portugal
- There may be a language barrier even though most people in cities speak English. It could take some time and effort to learn the local language.
- It could be difficult to find work in Portugal. The demand for particular professions and wage differences make the job market different from Canada’s as well.
- It could take some time to completely adjust to differences in daily routines, work practices, and social norms.
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