How to Open a Canadian Bank Account Before You Arrive 2025

You don't have to wait until you land. Several Canadian banks and fintechs let you open a fully functional bank account before you step off the plane.

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Why Open Your Account Before You Arrive?

Having a Canadian bank account before you land gives you several advantages:

Banks That Allow Pre-Arrival Account Opening

100% Online — Open Anywhere

KOHO — Best for Immediate Access

KOHO is a Canadian fintech that can be opened entirely online from any country. You'll receive a virtual Mastercard immediately upon approval, and a physical card mailed to your Canadian address. No SIN required. No credit check. Get $100 with code 45ET55JSYA.

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Pre-Arrival Service

TD Bank — New to Canada Pre-Arrival Program

TD allows newcomers to open a bank account online from outside Canada. You submit your documents digitally, and complete verification at a TD branch when you arrive. Your account is active from day one. Available in multiple languages.

International Pre-Arrival

RBC — Newcomer Advantage

RBC partners with financial institutions in India, China, UK, and other countries to help newcomers open accounts before arriving. You may be able to start the process through an RBC partner in your home country. Available online as well.

StartRight Program

Scotiabank — StartRight

Scotiabank's StartRight program allows international students and newcomers to begin their banking relationship online. You can submit documents online and complete the process when you arrive at a branch in Canada.

Step-by-Step: Open Your Account Before Landing

1

Choose your bank (1–4 weeks before arrival)

Compare the options above. KOHO is the easiest for instant online access. TD and RBC are better if you want a full-service big bank from the start.

2

Gather your documents

Have ready: valid passport, immigration document (visa, study permit, work permit, or PR COPR), planned Canadian address (your school, workplace, or a friend's address).

3

Complete the online application

Most applications take 10–20 minutes. You'll upload ID scans or photos and provide personal information. Some banks may do a brief video call for identity verification.

4

Transfer money to your new account

Before you fly, transfer your initial funds. Use Wise for low-fee international transfers. Having $2,000–$5,000 CAD in your account when you land gives you a comfortable buffer.

5

Complete verification on arrival (if required)

For TD and RBC pre-arrival accounts, visit a branch within 30–60 days of arriving to complete full verification. For KOHO, you're fully verified online with no in-person visit needed.

What to Do on Your First Day in Canada

  1. Activate your bank card — Call the number on the card or activate via the app
  2. Set up online banking — Download your bank's app and enroll
  3. Apply for a SIN — Visit a Service Canada office (same-day SIN issuance)
  4. Get a transit card — Most major cities have tap-to-pay transit cards that link to your bank account
  5. Start building credit — Ask your bank about a secured credit card for newcomers
Pro Tip: Exchange a small amount of currency before you leave (enough for your first taxi/Uber and a meal), then rely on your Canadian debit/prepaid card once you arrive. Airport currency exchange counters have the worst rates.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Canadian bank account from outside Canada?
Yes. KOHO can be opened entirely online from anywhere in the world. TD Bank and RBC have formal pre-arrival programs that allow you to start the process before you land, completing verification at a branch upon arrival. Scotiabank and BMO also have online newcomer applications.
What is the easiest Canadian bank to open from abroad?
KOHO is the easiest — fully online, no credit check, no SIN required, and no in-person verification needed. Your virtual card is available instantly after approval. Among traditional banks, TD's pre-arrival program is the most developed and widely available.
How do I transfer money to my Canadian account before I arrive?
Use an international money transfer service like Wise (formerly TransferWise), Remitly, or your home country's bank international wire transfer. Wise typically offers the best exchange rates. Transfer at least 3–5 business days before your flight to ensure the money arrives.
Do I need a Canadian address to open an account before arriving?
Most banks ask for a future Canadian address — this can be your university's address, your employer's address, or a friend/family member's address where you'll stay initially. Some banks allow you to enter your intended address. KOHO will mail your card to wherever you provide.
How much money should I have in my Canadian bank account when I arrive?
Immigration Canada recommends showing funds of at least $2,500 CAD for individuals (plus $625 per additional family member) to demonstrate you can support yourself. In reality, having $3,000–$100 in your account gives you a comfortable cushion for first/last month's rent, setup costs, and living expenses while you find work.
Can I use my Canadian bank card right after arrival?
Yes. If you open a KOHO account before arrival, your virtual card is available for online/contactless payments immediately. Physical cards take 5–7 business days to arrive. For big bank pre-arrival accounts, you typically receive your card when you visit the branch to complete verification.