Can a Non-Resident Get a Credit Card in Canada?

Sometimes, but it depends what “non-resident” means.

In most cases, to get a Canadian credit card you’ll need to be a Canadian citizen or resident, or be in Canada on a newcomer pathway (like a work permit, study permit, or recent permanent residency) through special programs.

If you’re simply visiting Canada with no Canadian address or status, it’s usually very hard to qualify.

KOHO Essential

If you want something you can use for everyday spending while you work toward a traditional credit card, with KOHO Essential:

• It has a low monthly plan fee that can be waived when you set up direct deposit or add +$1,000.

• Use a prepaid Mastercard® for groceries, bills, subscriptions, and travel.

• Grow your savings with a 2% interest savings rate on your entire balance.

• Earn 1% cash back on groceries, eating & drinking, and transportation.

• You can subscribe to Credit Building for $10/month, it's an affordable way to build your credit history.

• Enjoy unlimited transactions and free e-transfers (never worry about fees when sending money to someone again).

If You’re a Newcomer With Status in Canada

You may qualify through “newcomer” credit card programs if you are:

• A new permanent resident

• An international student

• A foreign worker

These programs often say you can apply with no Canadian credit history, but you’ll still need the right documents.

What You’ll Usually Need

Requirements vary by bank, but common ones include:

• Being the age of majority (18 or 19 depending on your province)

• Valid passport and immigration documents (like a study or work permit, or PR documents)

• A Canadian address (many applications expect this)

What If You’re Not Eligible for a Regular Credit Card?

Secured credit cards

A secured credit card can help some people, but many secured cards still require you to be a resident of Canada (and sometimes a permanent resident).

Prepaid cards

If you just need a card you can use for spending, a prepaid card may be easier to get than a traditional credit card.