Things to Consider Before Moving from Canada to Europe

Making the leap from Canada to Europe is an exciting prospect. Whether it’s the allure of centuries-old architecture, diverse cultures, or a slower pace of life, many Canadians dream of starting fresh across the Atlantic. But while moving abroad can be deeply rewarding, it’s also a major life change that comes with a long list of practical, financial, and emotional considerations.

From what to do with your belongings to navigating immigration paperwork, securing a visa, and managing finances in a new currency, here’s what to think about before making Europe your new home, as someone who just moved from Toronto, Canada, to Valencia, Spain.

1. Deciding What to Sell, Store, or Ship

One of the first—and most daunting—tasks when planning an international move is deciding what to do with your belongings. It’s tempting to take everything, but shipping costs and logistics can make that impractical.

Start by assessing what’s truly worth bringing. Furniture, appliances, and large electronics are often cheaper to replace once you arrive, especially when factoring in shipping costs, customs fees, and potential voltage incompatibility. (Most of Europe uses 220–240V power, compared to Canada’s 110V, which means many North American electronics won’t work without adapters or converters.)

Shipping can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $20,000 or more, depending on the volume and destination. Sea freight is the most economical option, but it can take several weeks—or even months—for your belongings to arrive. Air freight is faster but significantly more expensive.

If you have sentimental items or expensive clothing and small electronics, consider shipping those and selling or donating larger items before you go. Many people choose to sell furniture and vehicles, store personal keepsakes with family, and arrive in Europe with just their suitcases.

Remember that many European apartments are smaller than Canadian homes, and not all come with built-in closets or ample storage. Downsizing before your move will make your transition easier and your living situation more comfortable.

We sold most of what we owned, donated eight percent of our clothing, and stored some sentimental items and winter gear at my parents’ house, which we will retrieve when we visit in the new year.

2. Paperwork and Bureaucracy

Europe is a beautiful mosaic of nations, but it’s also known for its love of bureaucracy. Depending on which country you’re moving to, the paperwork can vary significantly—but it’s almost always extensive.

Start by researching what documentation you’ll need well in advance. Common requirements include:

• Valid passport (with at least six months remaining before expiry)
• Visa or residence permit (depending on your purpose for moving)
• Proof of income or employment
• Health insurance coverage
• Birth certificate, marriage certificate, and/or criminal background check (often translated and apostilled)

Many European countries require you to register your residence within days of arriving. For example, in Germany, you must register your address (Anmeldung) within 14 days, while in Spain, you’ll need to apply for a Número de Identificación de Extranjero (NIE) to handle most legal and financial matters.

If you plan to stay long-term, you may also need to exchange your Canadian driver’s license for a local one. Some countries have reciprocal agreements with Canada, allowing for an easy swap—others require a driving test.

It’s a good idea to keep both physical and digital copies of all your documents, organized and easy to access. Bureaucratic processes can take time, and having the right paperwork ready can save you countless headaches, which we can attest to.

3. Securing the Right Visa

Moving to Europe isn’t as simple as booking a one-way ticket. Unless you hold an EU passport (through ancestry, for instance), you’ll likely need a visa or residence permit to live and work there legally.

The type of visa you need depends on your reason for moving. Some of the most common options for Canadians include:

• Work Visa: For those with a job offer from a European employer.
• Freelancer or Digital Nomad Visa: Available in countries like Portugal, Spain, and Croatia for self-employed individuals or remote workers.
• Student Visa: For those pursuing higher education.
• Retirement Visa: Offered by countries such as Italy or Greece for retirees with sufficient savings or pension income.
• Family Reunification Visa: If you have immediate family members who are EU citizens or residents.

Each visa has specific requirements related to income, health insurance, and proof of accommodation. Some, like Portugal’s D7 visa for remote workers or retirees, are more accessible, while others involve stricter financial thresholds.

The application process can take weeks or even months, so start early. It’s also worth consulting with an immigration lawyer or relocation specialist familiar with your destination country—they can help you avoid costly mistakes and delays.

4. Financial Preparation and Currency Considerations

Before you move, take a close look at your finances. Europe’s cost of living varies drastically from country to country and even city to city. For instance, living in Lisbon or Prague can be far more affordable than London, Paris, or Amsterdam.

It’s essential to budget for:

• Initial housing costs (including deposits, which are often two or three months’ rent)
• Moving and setup expenses
• Health insurance (mandatory in most EU countries)
• Daily living costs such as food, transportation, and utilities
• Emergency funds for unexpected situations

You’ll also need to think about banking and currency. Most European countries use the Euro, but others—like Denmark, Sweden, and the UK—have their own currencies. Opening a local bank account will make paying rent and bills easier, but the process can be complicated if you don’t yet have a local address or identification number.

Some digital banking options, such as Revolut, Wise, or N26, the latter two of which we have been using and enjoying, offer multi-currency accounts and can be opened online. These platforms allow you to transfer funds, pay bills, and manage finances in Canadian dollars and euros. These platforms can be a lifesaver while you get settled.

If you’re looking to get an N26 account, click on the link, and once you make your first card payment of over twenty euros, you’ll get fifteen euros free. If you’re looking to use Wise for your banking, use the link and pay zero fees on your first transaction up to eight hundred dollars Canadian.

Don’t forget to consider how currency fluctuations and transfer fees might affect your finances, especially if you’ll still earn income in Canadian dollars.

Lastly, speak to your accountant or financial advisor about taxes. Depending on your income sources, you may still have to file a Canadian tax return even while living abroad, particularly if you maintain assets, rental properties, or investments in Canada.

5. Emotional Considerations: Leaving Family and Friends Behind

While the logistics of an international move can be overwhelming, the emotional side often catches people off guard. Leaving behind friends, family, and the familiarity of home can lead to a mix of excitement and loneliness.

At first, everything about Europe might feel thrilling—new foods, new people, new rhythms of life. But once the novelty fades, homesickness can creep in. Time zone differences make staying in touch challenging, and missing birthdays, holidays, or everyday moments can take an emotional toll.

That’s why it’s important to build new social connections as soon as possible. Look for expat communities online, join local clubs, or take language classes to meet people. European cities are filled with vibrant communities of internationals who know exactly what you’re going through.

It also helps to maintain a regular communication schedule with loved ones back home—weekly video calls, group chats, or shared photo albums can help bridge the distance. Remember, it’s okay to feel torn between two places; that’s part of the expat experience.

If you’re moving with a partner or family member, discuss how each person feels about the transition. Settling into a new culture can affect everyone differently, and mutual understanding will go a long way toward making the move successful.

6. Final Thoughts: Embrace the Adventure

Moving from Canada to Europe is a bold step, one that requires patience, planning, and adaptability. It’s not just a change in address—it’s a complete shift in lifestyle, mindset, and environment.

There will be moments of frustration—lost paperwork, delayed shipments, culture shock—but there will also be moments of awe and joy. Walking through cobblestone streets, enjoying long café mornings, travelling across countries in a single day, or simply rediscovering who you are in a new setting—all of it makes the effort worthwhile.

Take the time to plan carefully, prepare thoroughly, and give yourself grace as you adjust. Every expat’s journey is unique, but one thing’s certain: once you take that leap, you’ll see the world—and yourself—through a whole new lens.