What ID Do You Need? Document Accepted By KOHO Accepted By Banks Canadian passport Yes Yes Provincial health card Yes (most provinces) Yes Birth certificate No Yes (with parent) Driver's licence Yes (16+) Yes Student card Sometimes Usually not primary ID At What Age Can You Open a Bank Account Independently in Canada?

How to Open a Bank Account Under 18 in Canada 2026

Open a bank account before you turn 18 — with or without a parent.

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How to Open a Bank Account Under 18 in Canada

Opening a bank account when you're under 18 in Canada is absolutely possible — but the process differs from what an adult would go through. Some options require a parent or guardian's involvement, while others are completely independent. Here's exactly how to do it.

Option 1: KOHO (No Parent Required)

KOHO is a Canadian fintech company that issues Visa prepaid cards. Unlike traditional bank accounts, KOHO has no minimum age restriction and no requirement for a co-signer. You can sign up entirely online:

Download the KOHO app (iOS or Android)
Enter your name, date of birth, address, email, and phone number
Upload a photo ID (health card, passport, or student ID in some cases)
Your Visa prepaid card arrives in 5–10 business days

KOHO works for online purchases, tap payments, and receiving direct deposit. It's the easiest route for teens who want independence.

Option 2: Traditional Bank Youth Account (With a Parent)

Every major Canadian bank offers some form of youth account, but most require a parent or guardian if you're under 18. Here's the typical process:

Choose a bank: RBC, TD, Scotiabank, BMO, CIBC, or a credit union
Book an appointment at your local branch (or start online at some banks)
Bring ID: Birth certificate, passport, or provincial health card
Bring your parent/guardian: They'll need their own ID too
Sign the paperwork: Your parent co-signs as the joint account holder
Fund the account: Deposit a small opening amount if required

Note: As a co-signer, your parent or guardian has full visibility and access to the account. If you want privacy and independence, KOHO is a better choice.

What ID Do You Need?

Document	Accepted By KOHO	Accepted By Banks
Canadian passport	Yes	Yes
Provincial health card	Yes (most provinces)	Yes
Birth certificate	No	Yes (with parent)
Driver's licence	Yes (16+)	Yes
Student card	Sometimes	Usually not primary ID

At What Age Can You Open a Bank Account Independently in Canada?

The age of majority in Canada is 18 in most provinces (19 in BC, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland, Northwest Territories, Yukon, and Nunavut). Traditional banks typically allow independent account opening at 18 (or the age of majority in your province).

KOHO doesn't enforce an age minimum, making it the most accessible option for younger teens. However, you'll still need to provide valid ID to complete verification.

FAQs

Can a 13-year-old open a bank account in Canada?

At traditional banks, a 13-year-old needs a parent to co-sign. KOHO has no stated minimum age and can be opened online, though you still need valid ID for identity verification.

Do I need a SIN to open a bank account under 18?

A SIN is required for interest-bearing accounts at traditional banks. For KOHO (a spending/prepaid account), a SIN is generally not required.

Can I get direct deposit under 18?

Yes. Any account with a transit number, institution number, and account number can receive direct deposit — including KOHO and bank youth accounts.