Lisbon has quietly become one of Europe’s most desirable cities for expats — and Canadians are catching on. With year-round sunshine, excellent public transport, a thriving food scene, and rents well below London or Paris, Portugal’s capital offers a European lifestyle at a price Canadians can actually afford.
Why Lisbon works for Canadians
Portugal consistently ranks as the most English-friendly country in Southern Europe. You can handle daily life entirely in English while picking up Portuguese gradually. The time zone (UTC+0/+1) is the closest to Eastern Canada of any European capital, making it feasible to work with Canadian teams. Direct flights from Toronto and Montreal put Lisbon within 7 hours of home.
Best neighbourhoods for expats
Principe Real
Lisbon’s most cosmopolitan neighbourhood. Tree-lined streets, independent boutiques, excellent restaurants, and a central park. Popular with professionals and creatives. Rent for a 1-bedroom: $1,200–1,800 CAD/month.
Santos / Cais do Sodre
Riverside neighbourhood with a mix of historic charm and modern renovation. Close to Time Out Market, Mercado da Ribeira, and the waterfront. Growing startup community. Rent for a 1-bedroom: $1,100–1,600 CAD/month.
Campo de Ourique
Quiet, residential, and very livable. Local markets, neighbourhood cafes, and a village feel within the city. Popular with families and those who prefer less tourist traffic. Rent for a 1-bedroom: $1,000–1,400 CAD/month.
Estrela / Lapa
Embassy district with beautiful gardens and elegant buildings. Walking distance to the waterfront. Quieter and more spacious than the central tourist areas. Rent for a 1-bedroom: $1,100–1,700 CAD/month.
Cost of living breakdown
| Rent (1-bed apartment, furnished) | $1,100–1,800 CAD |
| Utilities (electric, water, gas) | $80–130 CAD |
| Internet (fibre) | $35–50 CAD |
| Food (groceries + dining out) | $400–700 CAD |
| Metro pass (monthly) | $55 CAD |
| Health insurance (private) | $80–150 CAD |
| Total | $1,750–2,880 CAD/mo |
Visa options for Canadians
- Schengen visa-free: 90 days in any 180-day period. No work permitted.
- D7 visa: For those with passive income (pension, investments, rental income). Minimum ~$900 CAD/month income required. Leads to residency.
- Digital Nomad visa: For remote workers earning at least 4x Portuguese minimum wage (~$4,500 CAD/month). Valid for 1 year, renewable.
- D2 visa: For entrepreneurs starting a business in Portugal.
Tips for renting in Lisbon
- Furnished long-term is harder to find: Unlike Thailand, most Portuguese long-term rentals are unfurnished. Move Abroad Rentals specifically curates furnished options.
- Rental market is competitive: Lisbon’s rental market is tight. Be prepared to act fast and have your documents ready (proof of income, ID, NIF tax number).
- Get a NIF: Portugal’s tax identification number. Required for renting, opening a bank account, and signing contracts. You can get one at any Finanças office or through an online service.
- Interior vs exterior apartments: Many Lisbon buildings have both. Exterior units face the street and get natural light; interior units face a courtyard and may be darker but quieter.
- Watch for “T0” and “T1”: Portuguese rental listings use T0 (studio), T1 (1-bedroom), T2 (2-bedroom), etc.
The bottom line
Lisbon is Europe’s best-kept secret for Canadians who want the European experience without London or Paris prices. The food alone is worth the move — fresh seafood, pastéis de nata, and wine for a fraction of what you’d pay in Canada. Add in the sunshine, the walkability, and the growing tech scene, and it’s easy to see why Lisbon keeps climbing the expat rankings.
Browse all Lisbon rentals on Move Abroad Rentals →
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