Credit Cards for New Immigrants to Canada

No Canadian credit history? Here's how new immigrants, permanent residents, and international students can get their first Canadian credit card.

The Challenge for New Immigrants

Canada's credit system is separate from all other countries. Your excellent credit history in India, the Philippines, China, Nigeria, or anywhere else does not transfer to Canada. Equifax and TransUnion Canada start a fresh file the moment you arrive — meaning you have no Canadian credit score, which makes it difficult to get approved for a standard credit card.

The good news: banks actively compete for new immigrant customers, and there are specific programs designed to help newcomers get their first card quickly.

Best Options for New Immigrants — No Canadian Credit Required

Option	Credit Check	Annual Fee	Builds Canadian Credit
RBC Newcomer Banking Package	No Canadian credit needed	$0 (1 yr)	Yes
TD New to Canada Banking	No Canadian credit needed	$0 (1 yr)	Yes
Scotiabank StartRight Program	No Canadian credit needed	Varies	Yes
CIBC Newcomer Banking	No Canadian credit needed	$0 (1 yr)	Yes
Home Trust Secured Visa	Soft check, open to newcomers	$0	Yes
KOHO Prepaid Visa	No check	$0	Via optional add-on

Bank Newcomer Programs

Canada's Big Five banks all have formal newcomer programs that waive standard credit requirements for recent immigrants and PRs. RBC's Newcomer Advantage, TD's New to Canada Banking Package, Scotiabank's StartRight, BMO's NewStart, and CIBC's Newcomer Banking Package all offer credit cards with no Canadian credit history required — typically for 12–24 months after arrival.

You'll need to bring: valid passport, proof of immigration status (PR card, work/study permit), and proof of Canadian address. Visit a branch in person — these programs can't always be started online.

Secured Credit Card Route

If you prefer not to use a specific newcomer program, any secured credit card is available to newcomers with no Canadian credit history. The Home Trust Secured Visa ($500 minimum deposit) and Neo Secured Mastercard ($50 minimum deposit) are strong options. Your deposit becomes your credit limit, and all payment activity is reported to Equifax and TransUnion.

KOHO — Start Immediately on Day One

KOHO's free prepaid Visa has zero requirements — no credit check, no Canadian address history, no income proof. You can sign up online with just an email address and get a virtual card immediately. Load money and start spending anywhere Visa is accepted. KOHO's optional $10/month credit building add-on reports to Equifax — a fast way to start your Canadian credit file even before you have a traditional bank account.

Building Your Credit Score as a Newcomer

• Open a Canadian bank account and get a credit card within your first month.
• Use the card for small regular purchases (groceries, transit, phone bill).
• Pay the full balance on time every month — even one missed payment hurts.
• Keep utilization under 30% — on a $1,000 limit, don't exceed $300 balance.
• After 6–12 months, check your Equifax/TransUnion score for free via Credit Karma or Borrowell.
• After 12–18 months of good history, apply for an unsecured rewards card.

Does International Credit History Transfer?

Generally, no. However, American Express has a Global Transfer program that allows existing Amex cardholders from certain countries (US, UK, Australia, India, and others) to apply for a Canadian Amex card using their foreign credit history. This is the one major exception — worth checking if you had an Amex card in your home country.