BMO
BMO credit card for newcomers
BMO says a newcomer can apply for an unsecured card up to $5,000 with no Canadian credit history, and for a secured card if that application is declined.
Last checked October 19, 2026
RBC Royal Bank
RBC credit card for newcomers
RBC will consider a credit card for newcomers who do not have Canadian credit history, once an eligible bank account is open. The window is shorter than the five-year banking offer.
- Last checked
- October 19, 2026
- Source
- RBC, credit cards for newcomers
- Audience
- Permanent residents, Temporary workers, International students
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What we could verify
- RBC says a credit card with no Canadian credit history is available to permanent residents and international students who arrived within the last 12 months, and to temporary workers who arrived within the last 48 months.
- The newcomer hub advertises a limit up to $15,000. The card page says the limit still depends on RBC's eligibility and credit criteria.
- RBC describes both unsecured cards and secured cards. A secured card needs a refundable deposit, often equal to the limit.
- You generally open an RBC Advantage bank account first, then apply online or with an advisor.
RBC is clear that a foreign credit score does not travel with you, and that paying the Canadian card in full and on time is how a file gets built. The no-history offer is not open for the entire five years of the banking waiver. If you arrived as a permanent resident more than a year ago, ask the branch whether you still qualify before you plan around the $15,000 figure.
We did not publish a purchase interest rate because the newcomer card page we checked describes the program rather than one card's APR. The rate depends on which RBC card you are approved for. Read that card's agreement.
Who it is for
You must meet Royal Bank of Canada's credit criteria. The no-history path cited on the card page is limited to the 12-month and 48-month arrival windows above. You need to be old enough to borrow in your province.
How to act on it
Open the bank account, then apply for the card online or book a branch appointment. Bring the same status documents you used for the account.
Also in credit cards
Capital One Canada
Capital One Secured Mastercard
A secured Mastercard for building or repairing credit in Canada. You put up security funds. Capital One says approval is guaranteed if you meet four published conditions.
Last checked October 19, 2026
CIBC
CIBC card bundled with the newcomer account
CIBC's newcomer page points you at a Dividend Platinum Visa and a bundle bonus on top of the Smart Account. We are not stating an interest rate because that page does not print one.
Last checked October 19, 2026