{"id":693,"date":"2025-04-25T15:09:25","date_gmt":"2025-04-25T14:09:25","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/blog\/?p=693"},"modified":"2025-05-02T16:53:51","modified_gmt":"2025-05-02T15:53:51","slug":"setting-up-a-canadian-bank-account","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/blog\/guides\/canada\/how-to-open-a-canadian-bank-account","title":{"rendered":"Can you Open a Canadian Bank Account From Abroad? A UK Expat Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>If you\u2019re preparing for a move to Canada, sorting out your finances early will save you time, stress, and money. One of the first things you\u2019ll 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A local account makes day-to-day life smoother, from setting up mobile payments to managing rent and utilities. But if you\u2019re wondering, &#8220;Can I open a Canadian bank account from abroad?&#8221;, the process may be different from what you&#8217;re used to, especially if you&#8217;re applying from the UK.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this guide, we\u2019ll 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-rank-math-toc-block\" id=\"rank-math-toc\"><h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Table_of_Contents\"><\/span>Table of Contents<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2><nav><ul><li><a href=\"#what-are-the-popular-banks-in-canada-for-uk-expats\">What are the Popular Banks in Canada for UK Expats?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#why-use-a-canadian-bank\">Why Use a Canadian Bank?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#how-to-open-a-canadian-bank-account\">How to Open a Canadian Bank Account<\/a><ul><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#can-i-open-a-canadian-bank-account-as-a-non-resident\">Can I Open a Canadian Bank account as a Non-Resident?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#can-i-open-a-canadian-bank-account-from-the-uk\">Can I Open a Canadian Bank Account From The UK?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#are-there-monthly-fees-for-canadian-bank-accounts\">Are There Monthly Fees For Canadian Bank Accounts?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#what-to-do-if-youre-missing-documentation\">What to Do If You\u2019re Missing Documentation?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"what-are-the-popular-banks-in-canada-for-uk-expats\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_are_the_Popular_Banks_in_Canada_for_UK_Expats\"><\/span>What are the Popular Banks in Canada for UK Expats?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The five principal banks that people commonly use in Canada are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Royal Bank of Canada<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Toronto-Dominion Bank<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bank of Nova Scotia<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bank of Montreal<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"why-use-a-canadian-bank\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Use_a_Canadian_Bank\"><\/span>Why Use a Canadian Bank?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Having a Canadian bank account as a UK expat will see many benefits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Avoid Transaction Fees<\/strong> &#8211; If you get a Canadian bank account, you\u2019ll avoid paying any foreign transaction fees that you\u2019d be charged by using your UK card in Canada. This applies to purchases, transactions, and even ATM withdrawals.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Get Paid Your Salary Easier<\/strong> &#8211; It\u2019s often a requirement from your employer to have a Canadian bank account so they can easily pay you. You\u2019ll also avoid any delays in getting paid each month and any confusion with foreign currency fees.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Easy to Pay Bills<\/strong> &#8211; You can set up standing orders and direct debits to never miss any bill payments.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"how-to-open-a-canadian-bank-account\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Open_a_Canadian_Bank_Account\"><\/span>How to Open a Canadian Bank Account<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Opening a bank account in Canada is a straightforward process, whether you&#8217;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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"1-choose-the-right-bank-and-account-type\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Choose_the_Right_Bank_and_Account_Type\"><\/span><strong>1. Choose the Right Bank and Account Type<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"2-check-if-you-can-apply-online-or-abroad\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Check_If_You_Can_Apply_Online_or_Abroad\"><\/span><strong>2. Check If You Can Apply Online or Abroad<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Some banks allow you to begin the process online before arriving in Canada. This is especially helpful if you&#8217;re moving from the UK or another country. Banks like Scotiabank, HSBC, and Simplii Financial offer pre-arrival account setup options for non-residents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"3-prepare-the-required-documents\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Prepare_the_Required_Documents\"><\/span><strong>3. Prepare the Required Documents<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>To open an account, you&#8217;ll typically need:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A valid passport<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A visa, work permit, study permit, or immigration papers <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Proof of address (either in Canada or your current country)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In some cases, a Social Insurance Number (SIN)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"4-visit-a-branch-or-finalise-online\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Visit_a_Branch_or_Finalise_Online\"><\/span><strong>4. Visit a Branch or Finalise Online<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&#8217;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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"5-set-up-online-and-mobile-banking\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_Set_Up_Online_and_Mobile_Banking\"><\/span><strong>5. Set Up Online and Mobile Banking<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"can-i-open-a-canadian-bank-account-as-a-non-resident\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_I_Open_a_Canadian_Bank_account_as_a_Non-Resident\"><\/span>Can I Open a Canadian Bank account as a Non-Resident?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>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:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Valid passport<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Work\/study permit or immigration documents (if applicable)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Proof of address (local or foreign, depending on the bank)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Canadian mailing address or SIN (if available)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>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.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"can-i-open-a-canadian-bank-account-from-the-uk\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_I_Open_a_Canadian_Bank_Account_From_The_UK\"><\/span>Can I Open a Canadian Bank Account From The UK?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>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 \u201cnewcomer accounts\u201d and may let you:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Apply online from the UK (or elsewhere)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Transfer funds in advance<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Finalise account activation in-branch upon arrival<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Banks that offer this include:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Scotiabank<\/strong> (StartRight Program)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>HSBC Canada<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>RBC<\/strong> <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>CIBC<\/strong> (Welcome to Canada Banking Package)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Simplii Financial<\/strong> <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The Royal Bank of Canada might be the best for those who want access to credit, car loans and a free credit card. It\u2019s also the largest and so offers the greatest range of locations for branches and ATMS.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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\u2019ll be contacted by the bank to set up your account (if all your paperwork is correct).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"are-there-monthly-fees-for-canadian-bank-accounts\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Are_There_Monthly_Fees_For_Canadian_Bank_Accounts\"><\/span>Are There Monthly Fees For Canadian Bank Accounts?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Unlike most basic UK bank accounts, there are often monthly fees to maintain an open account in Canada. If you\u2019re <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/blog\/moving-to-canada-from-uk\">moving to Canada<\/a> from the UK <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/student-shipping\">as a student<\/a>, you will probably enjoy free banking. Each bank is different, but many offer free student banking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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\u2019s from a different bank. Here is a detailed overview of Canada\u2019s banks and charges to expect.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Bank<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Account Type<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Monthly Fee<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Included Transactions<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Fee Waiver Option<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>RBC<\/strong><\/td><td>Day to Day Banking<\/td><td>$4.00<\/td><td>12 per month<\/td><td>Waived if you maintain a $1,000 balance<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>TD<\/strong><\/td><td>TD Minimum Chequing Account<\/td><td>$3.95<\/td><td>12 per month<\/td><td>Waived with $2,000 balance<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Scotiabank<\/strong><\/td><td>Basic Bank Account<\/td><td>$3.95<\/td><td>12 per month<\/td><td>No fee waiver available<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>BMO<\/strong><\/td><td>Practical Plan<\/td><td>$4.00<\/td><td>12 per month<\/td><td>Waived with $2,000 minimum balance<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>CIBC<\/strong><\/td><td>Everyday Chequing Account<\/td><td>$4.00<\/td><td>12 per month<\/td><td>Waived with $2,000 minimum balance<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Simplii<\/strong><\/td><td>No Fee Chequing Account<\/td><td><strong>$0<\/strong><\/td><td>Unlimited<\/td><td>No fee, online-only bank<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Tangerine<\/strong><\/td><td>No-Fee Daily Chequing<\/td><td><strong>$0<\/strong><\/td><td>Unlimited<\/td><td>No fee, online-only bank<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"what-to-do-if-youre-missing-documentation\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_to_Do_If_Youre_Missing_Documentation\"><\/span>What to Do If You\u2019re Missing Documentation?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>People commonly need to open a bank account before their official temporary or permanent residence comes through. This can be difficult, but it\u2019s not impossible. The first step is to contact the bank you\u2019ve chosen and ask what they can do to help.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While you think about which bank is best for you, if you\u2019re moving to Canada, you\u2019ll also need to consider how you\u2019ll transport your belongings from the UK. That\u2019s where a dedicated and professional moving company like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/\">1st Move International<\/a> can help.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Have a question? Join our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/groups\/1535043126670300\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">community Facebook group<\/a> for help and advice from others who are also leaving the UK!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>If you\u2019re preparing for a move to Canada, sorting out your finances early will save you time, stress, and money. One of the first things you\u2019ll 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 [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":10,"featured_media":2106,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_lmt_disableupdate":"","_lmt_disable":"","_cloudinary_featured_overwrite":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[21],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-693","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-canada"},"modified_by":"Adam","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/693","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/10"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=693"}],"version-history":[{"count":9,"href":"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/693\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":118935,"href":"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/693\/revisions\/118935"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2106"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=693"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=693"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=693"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}