Can I get a credit card in Canada with no credit history?
Yes. RBC, Scotiabank, TD, BMO and CIBC approve newcomers without Canadian credit history through their newcomer programs, usually within your first one to five years in Canada depending on the bank and your status. If you don't qualify, a secured card works for almost anyone: the deposit you leave becomes your credit limit.
How bank newcomer programs work
Instead of a credit score, the bank looks at your immigration status, how long you have been in Canada and your income. Permanent residents usually get the best terms: RBC, Scotiabank and TD advertise limits of up to $15,000, and BMO up to $5,000. International students are usually offered up to $2,000.
Each bank sets its own time window. For example, RBC's offer for permanent residents applies in the first 12 months after arrival, while Scotiabank, TD, BMO and CIBC accept many newcomers who arrived in the last five years. Our newcomer page compares the five programs side by side.
What you need to apply
Your passport, your permanent resident card or confirmation of permanent residence (or your work or study permit), your Social Insurance Number (SIN), a Canadian address and, for most cards, proof of income. Many banks ask you to open a chequing account with them first.
If you don't qualify: secured cards
A secured card asks for a deposit, often a few hundred dollars, which becomes your limit. You use it like any credit card, and the payments are reported to the credit bureaus, so it builds your Canadian credit history. Examples include the Capital One Guaranteed Secured Mastercard, the Home Trust Secured Visa and Neo's secured cards. After six to twelve months of on-time payments, you can usually move to a regular card.
Tips
Apply for one card at a time: each application is a hard credit check. Pay the full balance every month and keep your balance under about 30% of your limit. Prepaid cards are not credit cards and usually do not build credit.
Which bank gives newcomers the highest limit?
RBC, Scotiabank and TD advertise limits up to $15,000 for new permanent residents without credit history. BMO advertises up to $5,000. Limits depend on your income and the bank's review.
Can international students get a credit card?
Yes. Several banks offer student cards through their newcomer programs, usually with limits up to $2,000. Bring your study permit and passport.
Official sources
- RBC: credit cards for newcomers
- Scotiabank StartRight credit cards
- TD: credit cards for newcomers
- BMO: credit cards for newcomers
- CIBC: newcomer credit cards
- Financial Consumer Agency of Canada: credit reports and scores
Best cards for newcomers · Check your eligibility (4 questions) · All newcomer & student guides