When Sophie and Mark, a couple from Toronto passionate about art and outdoor life, visited Tuscany for the first time, they could never have imagined that a few years later that land would become their home. Today they live in the Sienese hills, in a restored stone house surrounded by vineyards and silence. They left behind the frenetic Canadian rhythm for a simpler and more authentic daily life.
Like them, more and more Canadian citizens dream of moving to Italy from Canada. The reasons are different, desire for change, search for a milder climate, a quieter life, passion for Italian culture, or the wish to enjoy retirement in a more human context. But the transition from dream to reality requires precise information and thoughtful choices.
Living in Italy as a Canadian citizen, what to know before leaving
To live in Italy as a Canadian citizen, it is essential to know which visas and residence permits are available. Those who wish to stay in Italy beyond the 90 days allowed for tourist stays must apply for a residence permit for Canadians, consistent with their purpose.
One of the most requested solutions is the elective residence visa for Canadian citizens. This visa is aimed at those who do not intend to work in Italy but can prove that they have sufficient financial means and adequate housing. It is particularly suitable for retirees and holders of passive income, such as real estate or investment income, dividends from business activities, etc. On the other hand, specialized workers who carry out their activity remotely and independently for foreign clients may apply for the digital nomad visa.
An interesting tax advantage, for those who meet the requirements, is the optional regime for foreign retirees, Italy in fact allows a reduced taxation of 7% on income from foreign sources, if residence is transferred to one of the Italian municipalities with fewer than 20,000 inhabitants in certain southern regions. An opportunity worth considering for those who receive a pension from Canada and are looking for a relaxed but fiscally advantageous context.
Stories of Canadians in Italy and good practices for those who want to follow in their footsteps
Robert is an IT engineer from Montreal. Working remotely for companies in North America, he decided to settle near Cortona, in Tuscany. With a stable connection and good legal support, he obtained the residence permit for Canadians in Italy and now leads a slower but equally productive life, surrounded by hills and olive groves.
Like him, those who work remotely for foreign clients can also benefit from one of the visas for Canadians in Italy, such as the digital nomad visa or the elective residence visa, provided, in the latter case, that they demonstrate financial self-sufficiency without having to work (in Italy) and the availability of a property.
Buying a house can represent another important step. Many choose Tuscany, not only for the beauty of the landscape, but also for the stability of the real estate market and the high quality of life. Those who wish to buy a house in Tuscany as a foreigner can do so, however, it is important to emphasize that reciprocity between Italy and Canada is no longer guaranteed. Since 2023, Italians who intend to purchase property in Canada must face significant restrictions, unless they fall into specific categories, such as refugees, purchases made together with Canadian spouses, or for diplomatic reasons. For this reason, Canadian citizens may also face restrictions in purchasing property in Italy.
This is why it is essential to be accompanied by professionals who are aware of bilateral treaties between countries, who adequately know the conditions of reciprocity. In addition, when managing the transaction, it is necessary that the appointed professionals master Italian regulations, especially in the cadastral, contractual, and urban verification phase.
Moving to Italy from Canada, when the dream comes true
The path to moving to Italy from Canada is not impossible, but it must be carefully planned based on personal and financial conditions. You can enter with a student visa, if Italy is considered the destination for studying, or for work in particular cases, such as secondment or intra-company transfer. Or again, there is the elective residence route for those who can demonstrate ownership of financial resources sufficient to be self-sufficient in Italy without having to work, as well as the availability of a property to elect as residence.
It is important to collect the required documents well in advance, translate them with legal value (sworn translation or apostille), book the visa at the competent Italian Consulate and correctly follow the procedures for applying for the residence permit for Canadians in Italy within the legal deadlines.
Once the permit has been obtained and residence established, the next step is integration into the local context, municipal registry, tax code, registration with the health system. All steps that may seem complex, but which, if managed with the right guidance, become smooth and safe.
Every story is different, but the common denominator is the desire to live more authentically, in a country that offers art, history, landscapes, and genuine human relationships. The stories of Canadians in Italy are not only an inspiration, they are confirmation that yes, changing life is possible, even starting from far away.
For those who feel that the time has come to give concreteness to an idea they have cultivated for a long time, there are professionals capable of accompanying every phase of this path with competence, discretion, and an international vision. The Boschetti International Law Firm, through the brand Italy Visa Investments, offers dedicated assistance precisely to those who want to build a new beginning in Italy, starting from solid legal foundations and a personalized strategy.
