NEWCOMERS
Build your life in Canada with the right financial foundation
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We’ll help guide you along your journey
No matter your situation, you can count on our advice to lend a helping hand with your new life in Canada at every stage of your journey.
Canadian immigration guide:
essential to your success
Get our free practical guide for valuable information on finance, housing, work, and education.
A complimentary information call before you arrive
Speak with an advisor via video call to get answers to your financial questions, with no obligation required.
Tailored-made banking products and services
Take advantage of our wide range of eligible banking products and services for newcomers. Whether you have short- or long-term projects, they may help you realize your ambitions.
Advice for your immigration to Canada
You go through many steps while immigrating to another country: obtaining a visa, finding a home, choosing the best bank for you, adapting your lifestyle, etc.
Our articles provide practical information to guide you through every step of your new life.
My resources before immigrating
Prepare for your arrival in Canada. Whether you've already decided to come or still on the fence, we've got plenty of information on housing, finance and health to help you make the right decision.
My finances in Canada
Discover the unique features of Canada's financial system and learn
how to manage your money by choosing the right financial products for
your needs.
My education in Canada
Are you thinking of coming to Canada to study? There’s a lot to learn
before coming.
My employment in Canada
From administrative procedures to the intricacies of compensation, learn more about the world of employment in Canada to pursue your career with peace of mind.
My housing in Canada
Buy or rent? It’s a question that knows no borders. See how the real estate purchasing process works and choose the solution that best suits your needs.
My business in Canada
Do you want to start a business in Canada or simply work for
yourself? Here’s what you need to know to make informed
decisions.
Our account for newcomers
No fixed monthly fees for up to 3 years
Take advantage of an account that helps you keep a little extra in your pocket.
A legal assistance service for newcomers
Speak with a lawyer from our partner firm by phone about topics that matter to you, at no cost for the first 12 months. 1
Best bank or best bank account for newcomers
2026
National Bank of Canada received the award for "Best Bank Account" for newcomers to Quebec by Milesopedia in 2025 and 2026*.
2025
National Bank of Canada has been named best bank for newcomers to Canada for 2025 by MoneySense, for the third year in a row*.
Frequently asked questions
For now, you must already be in Canada to open a bank account with us.
Get ready for your move to Canada with a complimentary video call with our team before you arrive. The aim of this call is to help you prepare for your arrival and better understand the Canadian financial system, with no obligation.
During this informational call, you'll learn more about everyday banking in Canada. We'll answer your questions about bank accounts, money transfers, credit, and much more.
Debit cards are a payment tool that allows you to make transactions
and purchases by taking money directly from your bank account.
Credit cards are another payment tool that allows you to make transactions. However, it provides you with access to credit, and you'll need to settle the amount upon receiving your monthly statement.
Read our article to learn more about these two cards.
When you use your credit card to pay for everyday purchases and pay
it off in part or in full by the due date, you
help build your credit report.
Your credit report could then be consulted, with your approval, before granting you financing for a car or before signing a lease, for example. If you manage your credit well, lenders will be more inclined to give you financing products for your projects.
Learn how to build your credit and use your credit card wisely.
There are several steps necessary for the purchase of a home in
Canada. To find out more, read
our practical guide for newcomers.
Contact us for personalized support
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Little details that matter
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*National Bank of Canada was named the best bank for newcomers to Canada by MoneySense in 2025, for the third year in a row. Every year, the website MoneySense establishes its annual rankings by selecting some of the largest financial institutions and comparing them for fees, access to credit and services offered to newcomers.
National Bank of Canada was also named the best bank for newcomers to Canada by the website money.ca in 2025.
National Bank of Canada received the "Best Bank Account" award for newcomers to Quebec by the website Milesopedia in 2025.
- Telephone assistance service offered by FBA Solutions, valid
for 12 months from your account opening date. The content of the
packages and terms described are subject to change.
- Our banking offer is available to newcomers from their home countries up to 90 days before arriving in Canada or at any point during your first 5 years in Canada. See the Details and conditions of the offer on the newcomers offer page for the full terms and conditions. The offer may be modified, extended or withdrawn, without prior notice, at any time. The offer may not be combined or used with any other National Bank offer, promotion or benefit. Fees may apply for transactions not included in the banking offer for newcomers. For more information on transaction fees, see our Fee Guide - Personal Banking Solutions [PDF].
- Credit card subject to credit approval by National Bank. Certain conditions apply. Eligible credit cards: mycredit, MC1, Allure, Syncro, Platinum, ECHO Cashback, World and World Elite.
- Guarantees may be required under certain circumstances.