Your Complete Guide to Buying and Living in Portugal for Canadians

November 15, 2025•2 min read

Your Complete Guide to Buying and Living in Portugal for Canadians

Thinking about buying a home in Portugal? You’re not alone. Many Canadians love Portugal for its warm weather, friendly people, beautiful cities, and relaxed way of life.

Buying a home in another country may seem confusing, but when you know the steps, it becomes simple and exciting. This guide shows you the 8 steps you need to follow before buying and living in Portugal.

The 8 Steps to Buying and Living in Portugal

Step 1: Get a NIF

A NIF is your tax number in Portugal. You need it to buy a home, open a bank account, and sign important papers.

Full guide: NIF for Canadians Buying Property in Portugal

Step 2: Open a Bank Account in Portugal

A Portuguese bank account helps you pay for your home, set up utilities, and manage your everyday spending. Canadians can open one in Portugal or with help from a local representative.

Full guide: How Canadians Can Open a Bank Account in Portugal

Step 3: Find the Right Area to Live

Portugal has many great places to choose from, such as Lisbon, Porto, the Algarve, Madeira, and the Silver Coast. Each area has a different lifestyle, cost, and feel.

Full guide: Best Areas in Portugal for Canadian Buyers

Step 4: Understand the Legal Steps

Portugal has a clear and safe home-buying process. You will check the property, sign a promissory contract, pay a deposit, and sign the final deed. A lawyer will guide you through each part.

Full guide: The Legal Process of Buying Property in Portugal for Canadians

Step 5: Moving and Settling In

After your purchase, you will set up water, electricity, gas, and internet. You may also register for healthcare, get home insurance, and learn your new neighbourhood.

Full guide: Moving and Settling in Portugal for Canadians

Step 6: Renting or Investing in Portugal

Many Canadians rent out their homes or buy property as an investment. Portugal has strong rental demand in many areas, depending on the type of property you choose.

Full guide: Investing and Renting Out Property in Portugal
https://portugalrealestateforcanadians.com/post/investing-and-renting-out-property-in-portugal

Step 7: Residency and Visa Options

If you want to live in Portugal full-time or for long visits, there are several visa options for Canadians, such as the D7 Visa, Digital Nomad Visa, Family Visa, Employment Visa, and Golden Visa.

Full guide: Residency and Golden Visa Options for Canadians

Step 8: What Life in Portugal Is Like

Portugal is known for its calm lifestyle, fresh food, safe neighbourhoods, and beautiful beaches. Many Canadians say life in Portugal feels relaxed and enjoyable.

Full guide: What Life in Portugal Is Like for Canadians