Yes, you can open most RBC accounts online, but the process depends on which account type you want

RBC lets you start a chequing or savings account through their website or mobile app without visiting a branch. The online process takes about 10 to 15 minutes and you can fund the account when ready. However, some account types—like business accounts or accounts that require a credit check—still need a branch visit or a phone call with an RBC representative.

The key limitation is that RBC uses knowledge-based verification to confirm your identity online. This means they ask questions about your credit history and financial records that only you should know. If you have no credit history in Canada, a very recent arrival, or a thin credit file, the online verification may fail and you will need to visit a branch in person with government ID.

Key Takeaways

  • RBC chequing and savings accounts can be opened online if you pass their identity verification questions, which takes 10 to 15 minutes total.
  • You will need a Social Insurance Number, a Canadian mailing address, and a valid government ID to start the process.
  • If the online verification fails, you can visit an RBC branch with your ID and complete the account opening in person.
  • RBC can link your new account to an existing RBC account you hold, which speeds up funding and set up.
  • Business accounts, joint accounts, and accounts for people under 18 require a branch visit or phone appointment.

What you need before you start

Gather these items before you begin the online process: a valid Canadian government ID (driver's license, passport, or provincial ID card), your Social Insurance Number, and a Canadian mailing address. RBC will also ask for your phone number and email address.

If you already have an RBC account, log into your online banking and use the "add account" option instead of starting fresh. This path is faster because RBC already has your identity verified. If you do not have an existing RBC account, you will go through the full verification process on the RBC website or in the RBC Mobile app.

The online account opening steps

Start at rbc.com/openaccount or open the RBC Mobile app and select "Open an Account." Choose the account type you want—most people choose a chequing account, savings account, or both. Enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, phone number, email, and mailing address.

RBC will then ask you identity verification questions based on your credit file. These questions ask about past credit inquiries, loan amounts, or payment history. Answer as accurately as you can. If you answer correctly, your account opens when ready and you can set up online banking access right away. If you answer incorrectly or cannot answer, the system will tell you to visit a branch or call RBC at 1-800-769-2511.

Once your account is open, you can fund it by transferring money from another Canadian bank account, or by setting up a direct deposit. If you have an existing RBC account, you can transfer between accounts when ready.

When the online process will not work

The online verification will fail if you have no credit history in Canada, arrived in Canada within the last year, or have a very limited credit file. Recent immigrants and international students often hit this barrier. In these cases, you will need to visit an RBC branch in person with your government ID and proof of address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement from your home country).

Business accounts, joint accounts, and accounts for minors (under 18) cannot be opened online. You must visit a branch or call RBC to set these up. If you want to add a second person to an account later, that change also requires a branch visit.

How long it takes and when you can use the account

The online process itself takes 10 to 15 minutes. Your account number appears on screen when ready after verification, and you can log into online banking right away. Debit cards arrive by mail within 5 to 7 business days. Cheques, if you ordered them, take 7 to 10 business days.

You can start using the account for transfers and direct deposits as soon as it opens. You cannot use the debit card or write cheques until they arrive in the mail. If you need a card urgently, visit an RBC branch and ask about rush delivery or a temporary card.

Linking your new account to an existing RBC account

If you already have an RBC chequing or savings account, the new account will be linked automatically during setup. This means you can transfer money between them when ready through online banking, and you will see both accounts in one login. You do not need to do anything extra—RBC handles this on their end.

If you have accounts at other banks, you can link those too, but it takes 1 to 2 business days for RBC to verify the connection. You will need to provide the account number and routing number for the other bank.

What happens if you cannot verify online

If the identity verification fails, RBC will direct you to a branch or give you a phone number to call. You can visit any RBC branch with your government ID and proof of Canadian address. The in-person process takes about 15 to 20 minutes and you walk out with your account number and online banking access. Your debit card still arrives by mail.

If you prefer not to visit a branch, call 1-800-769-2511 and ask to open an account by phone. An RBC representative will walk you through the process and may ask additional questions to verify your identity. This route takes about 20 to 30 minutes and your account opens the same day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to have money in my account before I open it online?

No. You can open the account with zero dollars. However, most people fund it when ready by transferring from another bank account or setting up a direct deposit. If you do not fund it within 90 days, RBC may close it.

Can I open a joint account online with someone else?

No. Joint accounts must be opened at a branch or by phone appointment. Both account holders need to be present or verified separately. Call 1-800-769-2511 to schedule a phone appointment.

What if I do not have a Social Insurance Number yet?

You cannot open an RBC account online without a SIN. You can visit a branch with your government ID and proof of your SIN process, and an RBC representative can help you. Alternatively, wait until your SIN arrives and then open the account online.

Can I change my account type after I open it online?

Yes. You can upgrade or downgrade between RBC chequing and savings accounts through online banking or by calling 1-800-769-2511. Some changes take effect when ready; others take one business day.

What if I opened an account but never received my debit card?

Contact RBC at 1-800-769-2511 or visit a branch. They can reorder the card, check the mailing address on file, or issue a temporary card. Replacement cards usually arrive within 5 to 7 business days.