Getting settled in Canada

Starting off on the right foot

Your new life begins here

Now that you've finally arrived in Canada, it's time to set up your new life. Don't worry, our advisors are here to help! Various assistance programs are also available.

"A true friend afar brings a distant land near."

- Chinese proverb

4 tips on getting settled in Canada

Choose a bank

You'll need to open a bank account to carry out transactions. The Offer for Newcomers to Canada allows you to open an account online from your country of origin. You can then transfer funds to the account so you can quickly access your money when you arrive.

Opening an account

Further reading

The Canadian Banking System: What You Need to Know

Managing your personal finances

Man's hands handling a credit card and using a tablet

Build your credit history

You'll need to build a solid credit history in Canada. Your credit history affects your ability to rent housing or apply for a loan. One of the best ways to build a credit history is to make purchases on your credit card.

Further reading

Everything you need to know about your credit report

All About Credit Cards

Get support

There are many organizations dedicated to helping newcomers get settled in Canada. For more information, click here. You can also call our free assistance service, which offers advice and support to newcomers like you.

Further reading

Newcomers: The First Steps Upon Arrival

Getting Settled in Canada in 8 Easy Steps

Children playing in boxes while parents move into new home

Think about buying a home

When it comes to housing, you should ask yourself if it's a better idea to rent (which allows you to avoid paying taxes and other expenses) or buy (which allows you to invest over the long term). Use our Rent or buy calculator to find out which option is best for you.

Calculator

Further reading

Does It Pay to Keep Renting?

Choose the right bank for you

Enjoy great savings and services¹ designed for newcomers to Canada.

Carry out transactions

Open a bank account online for your everyday banking needs.

Build a credit history

Apply for an eligible credit card²to build your credit history in Canada.

Buy a car

Take out a car loan³ to buy a new or used car.

Become a homeowner

Take out a mortgage loan³ and buy your own home in Canada.

+ enjoy up to three years without monthly banking fees

Find out more

Our partners can help you get settled

CITIM is an employment assistance service for immigrants in Montreal.

Mon Nouveau Bercail helps immigrants in precarious situations.

Kennedy Garceau proposes a global approach, a pragmatic and innovative method in international professional mobility.

L’Hirondelle welcomes new immigrants and helps them get settled.

Danielle Staraci Mobilité is an employment advisor for immigrants who speak French.

Fleur de Lys helps with the relocation, the installation and the integration of new comers, qualified workers and expatriates.

The Irish Canadian Immigration Centre offers outreach and information in areas such as employment, social services, and immigration.
There are no fees for their services.

Not in Canada yet?

Woman and little girl on sofa looking at laptop

Moving to Canada

Little details that matter

Legal Disclaimers

1. Our banking offer for newcomers is available to immigrants who have been living in Canada for less than 5 years. See the Details and conditions of the offer 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 [PDF].

2. Financing subject to credit approval by National Bank. Certain conditions apply. Eligible credit cards: Edition^® and Platinum.

3. Financing subject to credit approval by National Bank. Certain conditions apply.

Need advice?

Speak to an advisor about Canadian banking services.

Make an appointment

Getting settled in Canada

Your new life begins here