Yes, you can open a bank account as a visitor, but the process differs from what Canadian residents do
Most Canadian banks will open an account for a visitor, but they need proof that you are who you say you are and that you have a reason to be in Canada. The exact documents required and the types of accounts available depend on which bank you choose and how long you plan to stay. Some banks make this straightforward; others add extra steps.
The key difference from opening an account as a resident is that banks treat visitors as higher risk — they cannot easily verify your background or contact you later if something goes wrong. This is why they ask for more documentation upfront and sometimes limit what you can do with the account.
Key Takeaways
- You will need a valid passport and proof of your Canadian address, such as a hotel booking confirmation, rental agreement, or letter from someone who is letting you stay with them.
- Most major banks (Royal Bank, TD, Scotiabank, BMO, CIBC) will open a basic account for visitors, though some require a minimum deposit or charge higher fees than resident accounts.
- A Social Insurance Number (SIN) is not required to open an account, but you may need one to earn interest or use certain services.
- The account opening usually takes 15 to 30 minutes in person at a branch, and you can start using a debit card within a few business days.
- Some banks offer online-only accounts that may be faster, but you will still need to verify your identity in person or through a video call.
What documents you need to bring
Bring your valid passport — this is the document every bank will ask for first. It proves your identity and shows the bank when you entered Canada and when you are permitted to stay.
You also need proof of a Canadian address. This can be a hotel booking confirmation with your name on it, a lease or rental agreement, a utility bill addressed to you, or a letter from the person whose home you are staying in (sometimes called a "letter of residence"). The address does not have to be permanent; it just has to show where you can receive mail during your stay.
Bring your phone number and email address. Some banks will ask for a Canadian phone number, but if you do not have one yet, a number from your home country usually works. You may also want to bring a recent pay stub or letter from your employer if you have one, though this is not always required.
Which banks accept visitors and what they offer
The five largest banks in Canada — Royal Bank of Canada (RBC), Toronto-Dominion Bank (TD), Scotiabank, Bank of Montreal (BMO), and Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC) — all open accounts for visitors. Each has slightly different rules and fees.
RBC and TD tend to be the most straightforward. Both will open a basic chequing account (a no-fee account for everyday spending) in a branch within 15 to 30 minutes. TD also offers an online-only account called TD Every Day, which you can open partly online, though you still need to verify your identity in person or by video.
Scotiabank, BMO, and CIBC also accept visitors but may require a minimum deposit (often $100 to $500) or charge higher monthly fees than they do for residents. Call the branch nearest to you before you go in — staff can tell you exactly what that branch needs and whether they have any current promotions for new accounts.
Online-only banks like Tangerine and EQ Bank may also open accounts for visitors, but the process is entirely digital, and you will need to verify your identity through a video call with someone at the bank. This can take longer than walking into a branch.
Why banks ask for more from visitors
Banks are required by law to verify who you are and where your money comes from. For residents, they can check provincial records and follow up with you at a fixed address if there is a problem. For visitors, they cannot do either of those things easily.
This is also why some banks limit what visitors can do. You may not be able to set up automatic bill payments, transfer money internationally, or access a credit card right away. These restrictions usually lift once you become a resident or after you have held the account for a few months.
Opening an account in person versus online
Opening in person at a branch is usually faster and simpler for visitors. You walk in with your documents, speak to an account representative, and leave with a debit card (or one arrives in the mail within a few business days). The representative can answer questions on the spot and explain any limits on your account.
Online opening is convenient if you are not near a branch or prefer not to go in person. However, you will still need to verify your identity, usually through a video call. This means scheduling a time with the bank, waiting for a callback, and going through the process remotely. It often takes longer than in-person opening, not faster.
Some banks offer a hybrid: you start online, then finish in a branch. Ask the bank you choose which option is fastest for visitors in your situation.
What happens after you open the account
Your debit card usually arrives in the mail within 3 to 5 business days. You can use online banking and mobile apps when ready, even before the card arrives. Set up your online login during the account opening process so you can check your balance and transfer money right away.
If you plan to stay longer than a few months, tell the bank when you open the account. Some banks will convert your visitor account to a resident account once you have a Canadian address that is not temporary (like a lease or mortgage). This usually happens automatically, but confirming with the bank prevents surprises later.
If you leave Canada before your account is closed, you can keep it open and use it remotely. You can deposit cheques by taking photos with the mobile app, and you can transfer money in and out online. However, some banks charge higher fees for accounts held by non-residents, so check before you leave.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Social Insurance Number to open a bank account?
No. A SIN is not required to open a basic chequing account. However, you will need one if you want to earn interest on savings or use certain investment services. You can get a SIN from Service Canada if you are working in Canada or plan to stay long enough to work.
Can I open an account if I am staying with a friend and do not have a lease?
Yes. Ask your friend to write a straightforward letter on their own paper stating that you are staying at their address, the dates you are staying, and their signature. Include their phone number. Most banks accept this as proof of address.
What if the bank says they cannot open an account for me?
Try another bank. Rules vary by branch and by bank, and some are stricter than others. If you are having trouble, visit a branch in person rather than calling — staff can sometimes override policies or suggest alternatives that work for your situation.
Can I use a visitor account to receive money from outside Canada?
Yes, you can receive international transfers. However, some banks charge fees for incoming transfers, and the process can take 3 to 5 business days. Ask the bank for their international transfer fees and timelines when you open the account.
What happens to my account if I leave Canada?
Your account stays open and active. You can continue to use it online and by phone. However, some banks charge monthly fees for accounts held by non-residents, so check your account terms or call the bank to confirm what you will owe.