Can you Open a Canadian Bank Account From Abroad? A UK Expat Guide

Last Updated: 2nd May 2025 by Martha Lott

If you’re preparing for a move to Canada, sorting out your finances early will save you time, stress, and money. One of the first things you’ll need is a Canadian bank account to get easy access to your funds, help you pay bills, receive income, and avoid costly international transaction fees.

A local account makes day-to-day life smoother, from setting up mobile payments to managing rent and utilities. But if you’re wondering, “Can I open a Canadian bank account from abroad?”, the process may be different from what you’re used to, especially if you’re applying from the UK.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know: how to open a Canadian bank account from abroad, what documents are required, which banks welcome newcomers, and helpful tips to get you started.

What are the Popular Banks in Canada for UK Expats?

The five principal banks that people commonly use in Canada are:

• Royal Bank of Canada
• Toronto-Dominion Bank
• Bank of Nova Scotia
• Bank of Montreal
• Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce

Some international banks have plenty of branches in Canada as well, so you can check out BNP, Paribas, Citibank, and HSBC (amongst others) if using one of these banks will be easier. Perhaps you already have an account with one of these in your home country, which can make the process simpler.

There is a wide variety of smaller local banks, but opening a bank account in Canada with one of these may be limiting. The five banks above offer extensive coverage of locations, and you can visit any of their branches around the country. If you want flexibility, ease and efficiency, use one of the larger banks. You are also likely to find better account-opening offers, customer support and extra possibilities (like car leasing or loan options) with the larger providers.

With these banks, you can open checking accounts (current account) as well as savings accounts, and you may be eligible for a range of debit and credit card options. Always remember to ask what account-opening offers the different banks have, as many have promotions that include free tablets, mobile phones or other tempting deals.

Why Use a Canadian Bank?

Having a Canadian bank account as a UK expat will see many benefits.

1. Avoid Transaction Fees – If you get a Canadian bank account, you’ll avoid paying any foreign transaction fees that you’d be charged by using your UK card in Canada. This applies to purchases, transactions, and even ATM withdrawals. 
2. Get Paid Your Salary Easier – It’s often a requirement from your employer to have a Canadian bank account so they can easily pay you. You’ll also avoid any delays in getting paid each month and any confusion with foreign currency fees. 
3. Easy to Pay Bills – You can set up standing orders and direct debits to never miss any bill payments. 

How to Open a Canadian Bank Account

Opening a bank account in Canada is a straightforward process, whether you’re a new arrival, an international student, or even a non-resident preparing to move. Having a Canadian bank account will make managing your money much easier, from receiving your salary to paying bills and avoiding international fees. Here is a step-by-step on the process of opening a bank account when moving to Canada.

1. Choose the Right Bank and Account Type

Begin your search by looking at major Canadian banks like Royal Bank of Canada, Toronto-Dominion Bank, Bank of Nova Scotia, Bank of Montreal, and Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce. Many of them offer newcomer or expat packages with no monthly fees for the first year and helpful perks like credit card access or free transfers. Decide whether you need a chequing account (for daily use) or a savings account.

2. Check If You Can Apply Online or Abroad

Some banks allow you to begin the process online before arriving in Canada. This is especially helpful if you’re moving from the UK or another country. Banks like Scotiabank, HSBC, and Simplii Financial offer pre-arrival account setup options for non-residents.

3. Prepare the Required Documents

To open an account, you’ll typically need:

• A valid passport
• A visa, work permit, study permit, or immigration papers
• Proof of address (either in Canada or your current country)
• In some cases, a Social Insurance Number (SIN)

4. Visit a Branch or Finalise Online

If you’re already in Canada, you can visit a local branch with your documents. If you started the process online, some banks will let you activate your account upon arrival.

5. Set Up Online and Mobile Banking

Once your account is open, set up online banking so you can manage your money on the go. Most Canadian banks offer user-friendly apps and support services for newcomers.

Can I Open a Canadian Bank account as a Non-Resident?

Yes, you can still open a Canadian bank account if you are not yet a resident, as long as you have the right identification and other documentation:

• Valid passport
• Work/study permit or immigration documents (if applicable)
• Proof of address (local or foreign, depending on the bank)
• Canadian mailing address or SIN (if available)

The process might be trickier than if you were a resident, as most banks require a Social Insurance Number (SIN). If you are in Canada on a work or study permit, you can apply for a SIN. 

Can I Open a Canadian Bank Account From The UK?

Yes, some Canadian banks allow non-residents to open a bank account from abroad (especially for newcomers or students planning to move). These are often called “newcomer accounts” and may let you:

• Apply online from the UK (or elsewhere)
• Transfer funds in advance
• Finalise account activation in-branch upon arrival

Banks that offer this include:

• Scotiabank (StartRight Program)
• HSBC Canada
• RBC
• CIBC (Welcome to Canada Banking Package)
• Simplii Financial

The Royal Bank of Canada might be the best for those who want access to credit, car loans and a free credit card. It’s also the largest and so offers the greatest range of locations for branches and ATMS.

You will need to have your immigration documents in order (study or work permit and more) and get in contact with your chosen bank to begin the process. Then you’ll be contacted by the bank to set up your account (if all your paperwork is correct).

Are There Monthly Fees For Canadian Bank Accounts?

Unlike most basic UK bank accounts, there are often monthly fees to maintain an open account in Canada. If you’re moving to Canada from the UK as a student, you will probably enjoy free banking. Each bank is different, but many offer free student banking.

For non-students, you should expect to pay a monthly fee, as well as pay for individual transactions if you go over the allowed monthly limit. Most ATMS or cash machines will give free withdrawals if the machine is from your own bank, and around two dollars if it’s from a different bank. Here is a detailed overview of Canada’s banks and charges to expect. 

Bank	Account Type	Monthly Fee	Included Transactions	Fee Waiver Option
RBC	Day to Day Banking	$4.00	12 per month	Waived if you maintain a $1,000 balance
TD	TD Minimum Chequing Account	$3.95	12 per month	Waived with $2,000 balance
Scotiabank	Basic Bank Account	$3.95	12 per month	No fee waiver available
BMO	Practical Plan	$4.00	12 per month	Waived with $2,000 minimum balance
CIBC	Everyday Chequing Account	$4.00	12 per month	Waived with $2,000 minimum balance
Simplii	No Fee Chequing Account	$0	Unlimited	No fee, online-only bank
Tangerine	No-Fee Daily Chequing	$0	Unlimited	No fee, online-only bank

What to Do If You’re Missing Documentation?

People commonly need to open a bank account before their official temporary or permanent residence comes through. This can be difficult, but it’s not impossible. The first step is to contact the bank you’ve chosen and ask what they can do to help.

Many Canadian banks are used to being contacted by non-nationals and will have steps for you to take. You may even be able to open an international account (although normally this requires more significant deposits to be made).

While you think about which bank is best for you, if you’re moving to Canada, you’ll also need to consider how you’ll transport your belongings from the UK. That’s where a dedicated and professional moving company like 1st Move International can help.

If you need a smooth and stress-free shipping experience, 1st Move International has the expertise and knowledge to get your things from door to door with no issues. Get in touch now!

Have a question? Join our community Facebook group for help and advice from others who are also leaving the UK!