Moving from the UK to Canada often means setting up your finances quickly. Opening a Canadian bank account makes it easier to receive income, pay bills, and manage day-to-day spending in Canadian dollars. This guide explains whether non-residents can open an account, the documents required, available banks, typical fees, and practical alternatives. See also our GBP to CAD forecast 2026 and check live rates with our currency converter.
Can UK non-residents open a bank account in Canada?
Yes. Most Canadian banks allow non-residents to open accounts, including new arrivals, expats, and international students. You don’t need to be a permanent resident, but you’ll need identification and proof of your status. Some banks may require you to visit a branch in person, ask for Canadian contact details, or offer only basic accounts initially.
Do you actually need a Canadian bank account?
It isn’t mandatory, but life is much easier with one. A local account helps you receive salary payments, pay rent and utilities, set up mobile contracts, and avoid repeated currency conversion fees. See why banks give worse exchange rates to understand what those conversion costs actually add up to.
Can you use your UK bank account in Canada?
You can still access your UK account, but it’s rarely ideal for daily use. Common issues include foreign transaction fees, exchange rate markups, ATM withdrawal charges, and difficulty receiving Canadian payroll. Our guide on bank wire transfer fees explains what international banking costs look like.
Documents needed to open a Canadian bank account
Most banks request: UK passport, second ID (bank statement, credit card, or government ID), proof of address, and visa, work permit, or study permit. Sometimes also required: Social Insurance Number (SIN), Canadian address, proof of employment or enrolment, and a Canadian phone number.
Best Canadian banks for UK expats
Canada’s major banks all offer newcomer packages. Royal Bank of Canada offers fee-free periods for new arrivals and large branch networks. TD Bank has strong mobile banking and newcomer fee waivers. Scotiabank and Bank of Montreal both offer NewStart-style newcomer programmes with promotional fee-free periods. Digital alternatives include Neo Financial, EQ Bank, Tangerine, and KOHO.
Typical Canadian banking fees
| Fee type | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Account opening | Usually free |
| Monthly fee | $5–$30 CAD |
| ATM withdrawal | Free at own bank |
| International transfers | Bank markup may apply |
Many banks waive monthly fees if you maintain a minimum balance. See our guide on how long international bank transfers take when planning your first transfers from the UK.
Moving money to Canada
If you’re relocating from the UK, transferring funds efficiently matters. Bank transfers often include exchange rate markups and international wire fees. Using a currency specialist can help you secure stronger GBP/CAD rates, reduce transfer costs, and lock in exchange rates in advance with a forward contract.
For large transfers — property purchases, relocation funds, or pension transfers — see our guides on transferring large sums internationally and who gives the best exchange rates for large transfers. Your UK pension income also continues to be receivable in Canada — note that Canada is one of the countries where the UK State Pension is frozen, making the exchange rate on your private pension particularly important. See our UK pension abroad currency guide for more on this. All Cambridge Currencies transfers are processed through FCA-authorised payment partners and are fully safeguarded.
Speak to a Cambridge Currencies specialist about your Canada transfer or request a free quote.
