Preparing for FIFA 2026 in Canada: The Ultimate Guide for Landlords and Property Managers

The 2026 FIFA World Cup in Canada is set to be a monumental international occasion, not just for soccer fans, but for landlords and property managers in host cities around the world. With 104 matches and 48 countries converging on cities like Vancouver and Toronto, hotel shortages—like the projected 70,000-night gap in Vancouver alone—are sending fans straight to residential rentals. For property managers, this is a unique opportunity to bridge the housing gap, stay compliant, and maximize revenue.  

By preparing your units for FIFA guests, you can attract international visitors seeking comfortable, short-term stays. To better understand the situation, liv.rent has compiled this guide to short-term rentals in Canada’s major cities in 2026.  

Why FIFA 2026 is a rare opportunity for landlords and property managers

With 48 countries and 104 matches coming to Canada, hotels and traditional rentals in cities like Vancouver and Toronto will be stretched to the limit. Fans will be scrambling for places to stay, creating an unprecedented demand for residential rentals. For landlords and property managers, this isn’t just a busy season, it’s a chance to fill the gap, boost bookings, and showcase desirable units to an international audience eager for short-term accommodations. 

What rental demand will look like during FIFA 2026

Surge in short-term stays (fans and tourists)

With hotels filling up fast, fans will turn to residential rentals for convenience and comfort. Landlords who prepare reliable, event-ready units can capture this surge, offering hassle-free stays and premium experiences to international visitors. 

Mid-term stays (30–90 Days)

Journalists, team staff, and traveling families may need stays of a few weeks. Flexible, fully equipped units for mid-term bookings can provide steady income without the constant turnover of nightly rentals. 

Overflow demand across metro areas

Even cities near stadiums won’t have enough rooms, pushing fans to surrounding neighbourhoods. Listing units in these areas increases visibility and booking potential for landlords. 

Accommodation options during FIFA 2026 and what it means for landlords & property managers

Most visitors will first look to hotels and Airbnb, but with rooms filling up fast, residential rentals will be in high demand. Fans seeking convenience, privacy, and flexible dates will turn to landlords and property managers who offer ready-to-go units. Listing your short-term rental on Canada’s most trusted and safest platform, liv.rent gives you maximum visibility, helping you attract international guests and earn premium rates while traditional accommodations struggle to keep up. 

Rental demand will concentrate in Vancouver and Toronto in key areas during FIFA 2026

City	Key Venues	High-Demand Neighbourhoods	Rental Opportunity
Vancouver	BC Place, Vancouver Olympic Centre, Stadium District	Downtown, Kitsilano, Yaletown, Mount Pleasant	Short-term rentals near stadiums will be in high demand; fans prefer walkable access and fully furnished units.
Toronto	BMO Field, Scotiabank Arena, Exhibition Place	Entertainment District, Waterfront, King West, Queen West	Properties close to match venues and fan zones will see peak occupancy; well-prepared units can command premium rates.

How landlords and property managers can prepare for FIFA 2026 World cup demand

How landlords and property managers can prepare for FIFA 2026 World cup demand

Research and select properties in high-demand areas near stadiums, fan zones, and transport hubs. Prioritize units that are safe, accessible, and can handle short-term or mid-term bookings. Ensure all units meet safety standards within the building and more widely within city restrictions. Assess how well-connected units are to other conveniences like basic groceries or supplies, clothing stores or souvenir attractions, and if the building offers enticing amenities renters might like to take advantage of during their down time. 

Furnish strategically for higher returns

Equip units with essentials—comfortable beds, Wi-Fi, kitchen staples, and entertainment options. Small upgrades like linens and smart locks can justify premium rates. Make it feel comfortable but also functional.

Introduce flexible leasing models

Offer nightly, weekly, and mid-term stays to accommodate fans, journalists, and traveling staff. Flexibility increases occupancy and maximizes revenue.

Optimize listings for visibility and conversion

Use professional photos, clear descriptions, and highlight proximity to venues. Include key amenities and FIFA-specific perks to stand out to international visitors.

Showcase units suited for World Cup visitors on liv.rent

Listing on liv.rent increases exposure to tenants actively seeking short-term rentals, and gives you access to Canada’s safest and most trusted rental platform. Everything is streamlined, making the process simplistic to maximize returns.

FIFA 2026 rental income potential: what landlords can expect

Short-term rentals (nightly stays)

Landlords near stadiums and fan zones can expect premium nightly rates, often 2–4× the typical monthly rent for prime units, especially on peak match days and weekends. High-demand periods like match days or fan events offer the chance to maximize revenue, but planning ahead with furnished units is essential to capture these short-term bookings. 

Mid-term rentals (30–90 days)

For visitors staying several weeks, such as journalists, team staff, or traveling families, mid-term rentals can command 20%–50% higher than regular monthly rent. Offering flexible, fully equipped units for these longer stays provides steady income while still taking advantage of the FIFA demand spike. 

FIFA rental considerations and regulations

Vancouver short-term rental rules

If you’re renting your home for less than 90 days, you’ll need a Vancouver short-term rental licence. Make sure you live in the property, have landlord or strata approval, and include your licence number in all listings. Fees start at $1,108, and annual renewal is required. Following these rules keeps you compliant, protects long-term housing, and positions your unit to capture high-demand bookings during events like FIFA 2026. 

Primary Residence Requirement:

To legally rent your home during high-demand events like FIFA 2026, make sure you follow these rules:

• The property must be your principal residence.
• You must own the property or have written landlord approval if renting.
• You can rent your entire home or a room for less than 90 consecutive days.
• Secondary suites (laneway houses, basements) can only be rented if you live in that specific unit.
• You cannot operate multiple properties, accessory buildings, or rent without a valid licence.

License approvals:

Before applying for a short-term rental licence, make sure you have the proper approvals to avoid delays or fines during high-demand periods like FIFA 2026:

• Obtain written approval from your strata corporation if your property is stratified.
• Get written landlord approval if you are a tenant.
• Applications without proper approval may be delayed or denied.
• Non-compliance can result in fines up to $1,000 per offence.
• Securing permissions ahead of time ensures smooth, legal hosting.

Safety requirements:

Ensuring your short-term rental meets safety standards is essential for protecting guests, avoiding liabilities, and operating confidently during high-demand events like FIFA 2026.

• Confirm the property is a legal dwelling unit.
• Provide guests with 24/7 contact information.
• Install interconnected smoke alarms on every floor and in every bedroom.
• Install carbon monoxide detectors on every floor if there are gas appliances.
• Have a working fire extinguisher on every floor and post a fire plan at all entrances/exits.
• Buildings with >3 units or >10 occupants require a building fire alarm.
• Attached units must have either sprinklers or 45-minute fire separation.
• Review insurance to ensure coverage for short-term rental operations.
• Inspect and test smoke alarms, fire extinguishers, and carbon monoxide detectors annually.

Taxes:

Short-term rental operators in Vancouver should keep these tax requirements in mind to stay compliant during high-demand periods like FIFA 2026:

• Pay the City’s short-term rental business licence fees.
• Collect and remit all applicable municipal taxes on rental income.
• Staying compliant helps avoid fines and legal issues.
• Proper tax management protects your property, revenue, and guest experience.

Operate and maintain:

Once licensed, do these things to operate and maintain the unit:

• Display your licence in the unit and include the number in all online listings, updating it annually.
• Only advertise active licences and ensure bookings do not overlap.
• Manage guest behaviour, including noise, parking, and garbage rules.
• Maintain fire safety records and allow inspections if requested.
• Provide documentation if audited and stay compliant with city by-laws.
• Renew your licence annually by December 31.
  
  

Toronto short-term rental regulations

Operating a short-term rental in Toronto requires following specific city rules to ensure your unit is legal, safe, and compliant. From registering with the city and renewing annually to collecting the Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT) and adhering to guest and safety requirements, these regulations protect both hosts and the local housing market. Staying informed and compliant allows landlords and property managers to legally host visitors and capitalize on high-demand periods like FIFA 2026.

Primary Residence Requirement:

To operate a short-term rental in Toronto, the property must be your principal residence—the place where you live and use for bills, taxes, and identification:

• Only your principal residence can be used for short-term rentals.
• Homeowners and renters can participate, but one registration per person.
• Entire home rentals: maximum 180 nights per year.
• Partial-unit rentals (rooms): up to three bedrooms, unlimited nights.
• Secondary suites and laneway suites can be rented only if they are your principal residence.
• You must choose between entire-unit or partial-unit registration; status can only change at renewal.
• Rentals must be in residentially zoned areas, following condo bylaws if applicable.
• B&B operators can continue under existing “tourist home” zoning permissions.

License approvals:

Before applying for a short-term rental licence, securing the proper approvals is essential to avoid delays or fines during high-demand events like FIFA 2026.

• Obtain written approval from your strata corporation if your property is stratified.
• Get written landlord approval if you are renting.
• Applications without proper approval may be delayed or denied.
• Non-compliance can result in fines up to $1,000 per offence.
• Securing approvals ahead of time ensures smooth, legal hosting.

Safety requirements:

Ensuring your short-term rental meets safety standards protects guests, reduces liability, and keeps your property compliant during events like FIFA 2026.

Key Points:

• Install smoke alarms on every floor and in every bedroom.
• Install carbon monoxide detectors if there are gas appliances.
• Keep a working fire extinguisher on every floor and post a fire plan.
• Maintain fire safety and inspection records and allow inspections when requested.
• Review insurance policies to confirm coverage for short-term rental operations.
• Inspect and test alarms, detectors, and extinguishers annually.

Taxes:

In Toronto, short-term rental operators must collect and remit the Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT).

• Collect and remit MAT for all bookings under 28 days.
• Temporary rate: 8.5% from June 1, 2025, to July 31, 2026.
• Report MAT for each reporting period.
• Stay compliant to avoid fines and operate legally.
• Maximize rental income during high-demand events like FIFA 2026.

Risks landlords and property managers should plan for

While FIFA 2026 brings strong demand, it also comes with risks. Short-term rental regulations, licensing requirements, and tax obligations vary by city and must be followed to avoid fines or penalties. High guest turnover can lead to wear and tear, while poor screening may increase the risk of damages or disputes. Planning ahead with clear policies, proper insurance, and compliant operations helps landlords protect their properties while still capitalizing on peak demand.

Why listing your rental on liv.rent can help you reach World Cup visitors

Trusted by renters for its verified listings, liv.rent is Canada’s safest rental platform, offering secure processes, and transparent experience. For landlords and property managers, this means attracting high-quality tenants and reducing risk during a busy rental period. Listing your event-ready rental unit early helps you stand out to international visitors actively searching for reliable accommodations. As demand rises, having a trusted platform behind your listing can improve visibility, credibility, and booking conversions. 

FIFA 2026 preparation timeline for landlords and property managers

Preparing early is key to maximizing FIFA 2026 opportunities. Start by identifying suitable units and ensuring they meet local regulations and licensing requirements. In the months leading up, furnish and optimize listings with high-quality photos and clear descriptions. As the event approaches, adjust pricing based on demand and enable flexible leasing options. Listing early on trusted platforms ensures visibility, helping you secure bookings ahead of the rush and stay competitive during peak travel periods.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Canadian cities are hosting FIFA World Cup 2026?

Vancouver and Toronto are the official Canadian host cities for FIFA World Cup 2026.

How can landlords and property managers prepare for FIFA demand?

Prepare by identifying high-demand units, ensuring compliance, furnishing strategically, and listing early on trusted rental and property management platforms like liv.rent. 

What is the best rental strategy during FIFA 2026?

A flexible strategy combining short-term and mid-term rentals helps maximize occupancy and revenue during peak demand. 

Are short-term rentals allowed in Vancouver and Toronto?

Yes, but both cities require registration or licensing and have specific rules that landlords must follow to operate legally.

Where should I stay for the World Cup 2026 in Vancouver?

Visitors should look for accommodations near BC Place, Downtown, and surrounding neighbourhoods with easy transit access.

Where should I stay for the World Cup 2026 in Toronto?

Popular areas in Toronto include neighbourhoods near BMO Field, the Entertainment District, and the Waterfront. Locations with easy access to transit are ideal.

How can I rent my house out for the World Cup?

Ensure your property meets local regulations, prepare it for short-term stays, and list it early to attract international visitors. Check these official pages for vital information on short-term rental rules in Vancouver and Toronto.  

How can I rent my apartment out for the World Cup 2026?

Confirm building approvals, comply with city rules, furnish the unit, and list it on a trusted platform to secure bookings. Check these official pages for vital information on short-term rental rules in Vancouver and Toronto.