Why I decided to leave Portugal
Why I am leaving Portugal after living here for many years. What changed?
France
Due to Portugal’s new Nationality Law, France will now be a more attractive destination for Canadians looking to relocate to Europe.
What makes this site different
Most sites that provide information about relocating to Portugal are run by people who are looking to make money from providing relocation services, and therefore don’t give a balanced view of some of the difficulties one will inevitably experience in moving here.
This site has a mandate to provide unbiased information from a Canadian perspective to those considering making the move to Portugal. Other sites may sugar coat some difficulties you may encounter moving here. I do not take money from any source, I run this site as a free service to keep it unbiased and sugar free.
Open a Portuguese Bank Account from Canada
This advice is for Torontonians or Canadians who can make it to Toronto for a day.
Nationality Law
In June 2025, the current “minority” government bowing to pressure from Chega, introduced new Citizenship laws, raising the residency from 5 years to 10 for Canadians, making it amongst the highest in Europe. The government is proposing to apply these laws retroactively,
Chega (Portugal’s PPC)
Chega is basically the political equivalent of the People’s Party of Canada. The main difference is that Chega is the current opposition party with 60 seats compared to the governing party’s 91 seats, and is gaining popularity every day. This should give any Canadian thinking of choosing Portugal second thought.
Aldeias do Xisto (Schist Villages)
Looking for an under-the-radar wilderness weekend escape from the city? Look no further than Portugal’s charming Schist Villages.
Taxation in Portugal
Income Tax and Sales Taxes are much higher in Portugal than in Canada, however there is a program called NHR that can greatly reduce your tax burden. There are also some “gotchas” when moving from Canada to Portugal, namely Canada’s vicious “departure tax.
Portugal’s Libel and Defamation Laws
Some advice on navigating social media and leaving reviews for Canadians. The laws are different here.
Portugal’s Renewable Energy Grid
Portugal generated a remarkable 71 % of its electricity from renewables in 2024. Canada weighs in at an almost as impressive 67% (2023). Both countries outperform the global and EU averages and continue to push for renewable growth in the near future.