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

Yes, some non-residents can get a credit card in Canada. Your options depend on your status in the country. International students and temporary foreign workers may qualify through newcomer programs.

Someone visiting Canada without a Canadian address or immigration status will usually have a harder time qualifying.

KOHO Prepaid Mastercard

KOHO Prepaid Mastercard is a credit card alternative that lets you spend money you already have.

With KOHO Prepaid Mastercard, you can:

• Get instant approval with no credit check

• Spend only the money you load onto your account

• Pay no interest on your purchases

• Earn up to 2% cash back

• Use your card for in-store purchases, online shopping, and recurring payments

Who Can Get a Credit Card in Canada?

Credit card requirements vary by issuer.

You may have options if you are:

• A permanent resident

• An international student

• A temporary foreign worker

• A newcomer with valid immigration status

Some newcomer credit card programs do not require an established Canadian credit history. You will still need to meet the issuer's identification and residency requirements.

What Do You Need to Apply?

The exact requirements depend on the card issuer.

You may be asked for:

• A valid passport

• A study or work permit

• Permanent resident documents

• A Canadian address

• Proof of income

• Other government-issued identification

You must also be the age of majority in your province or territory.

Do You Need a Canadian Credit History?

Not always.

Newcomers often arrive without a Canadian credit file. Some financial products are specifically designed for people in this situation.

Having no Canadian credit history is different from having bad credit. It simply means Canadian lenders have little information about how you have managed credit in the country.

Can a Visitor Get a Canadian Credit Card?

It can be difficult.

Someone visiting Canada without Canadian residency or immigration status may not meet a card issuer's requirements. A Canadian address may also be required.

Using a credit card issued in your home country may be easier for a short visit.

What If You Cannot Get a Traditional Credit Card?

You may want to consider a prepaid card once you meet the provider's residency requirements.

A prepaid card lets you load your own money before spending it. You are not borrowing against a credit limit. This also means you do not pay credit card interest on purchases.

If your goal is to establish Canadian credit history, look for a product that specifically reports payment activity to the credit bureaus.

The key is your status in Canada. New permanent residents, international students and workers may have credit card options even without Canadian credit history. Someone with no Canadian residency or immigration ties will usually have fewer choices.