Canadian Bank Account Options in the United States | Nova Credit (2024)

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April 22nd 2020

Opening a Canadian Bank Account from the US: 5+ Options

Can Canadians open U.S. bank accounts? In this guide, we’ll not only share how to go about cross-border banking and establishing a checking or savings account in the U.S., but we’ll also share some of the best U.S. banking options for Canadians.

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If you’re a Canadian frequently crossing the border to your friendly neighbors to the south, you may want to consider opening a bank account in the United States. With a U.S. bank account, you won’t have to worry about costly transaction fees whenever you use your debit card or the hassle of converting paper CAD to USD. However, it’s not always easy to find a Canadian bank with U.S. branches.

Can Canadians open U.S. bank accounts? In this guide, we’ll not only share how to go about cross-border banking and establishing a checking or savings account in the U.S., but we’ll also share some of the best U.S. banking options for Canadians.

How to Open a U.S. Bank Account

While policies vary from bank to bank, generally, all you need to provide is two forms of valid identification, such as a passport and a driver’s license, together with other details, such as your full name, phone number, employer and Canadian mailing address.

While most financial institutions in the U.S. allow Canadians to open accounts, you may not be able to use all of the services the bank offers. For instance, you might not be able to use online banking services unless you have a valid U.S. Social Security Number (SSN).

Reasons Canadians might want to open a U.S. bank account

There are several reasons Canadians might want to open a bank account in the United States:

You work in the United States.

If you are a Canadian working in the U.S. on a visa, having a bank account will save yourself a lot of time and hassle by having your checks deposited into a U.S. account.

You own a business in the U.S.

If you already own a business in the U.S. or you’re thinking about opening one in the future, having an American bank account might be beneficial. You’ll have the option to open a business account, which can provide numerous benefits from easier invoicing to faster payments and fewer fees.

You own property in the States.

If you own a property in the United States or you’re planning on buying property, opening a U.S. bank account lets you apply for bank loans. Paying your mortgage will also be a lot less stressful.

You travel to the U.S frequently.

If you travel to the States regularly, having an account with an American financial institution makes things a lot easier for you. You’ll have an easier time accessing your money when you need it, and you won’t have to worry about converting currencies from Canadian dollars to U.S. dollars and back again or paying transaction fees (the cost of which can add up over time).

Canadian banks in the United States

Several top Canaidan banks offer cross-border banking services that may benefit Canadians living and working in the U.S.

CIBC U.S. offers “tailored commercial, wealth management, personal and small business financial solutions, as well as cross-border banking services to clients with North American operations.” CIBC U.S. is backed by a “150-year-old Toronto-based, global financial institution.” Its U.S. headquarters is in Chicago, Illinois.

Pros: You can set up an account online, so you don’t have to travel to an actual physical bank to get yourself set up. Transferring money between your Canadian bank account and U.S. bank account is seamless; you don’t have to go through any additional steps like you might have to at other financial institutions. CIBC U.S. accounts are also compatible with Apple Pay.

Cons: Banks will require you to be an existing client with the financial institution before you open a checking account or savings account. You also have to maintain a high balance to avoid being account charges, and be in good standing.

Use your foreign credit history to start your U.S credit history

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BMO Harris

BMO Harris offers “banking that’s on your side, north and south of the border.” This financial institution advertises financial services and products for Canadians that simplify the process of cross-border banking.

Canadians have several options at BMO Harris:

  • BMO U.S. Dollar Account. You can choose to open a checking account or a savings account with a BMO U.S. Dollar Account, and you’ll have the ability to transfer funds between this account and your BMO Canadian Dollar Account with ease. You can also use this account to make your BMO U.S. Dollar MasterCard payments.

  • BMO Harris Personal Checking Account.This account is designed to “meet your everyday U.S-based banking needs;” you can make deposits, draw checks, take out cash from physical banks or ATMs and pay bills.

You can also sign up for online banking and use the BMO Harris Bill Pay to pay and receive U.S.-based bills automatically. You will also receive a BMO Harris Debit MasterCard (with advanced chip security features), and you won’t be charged any transaction fees when you use BMO Harris ATMs to withdraw money from your account.

Chase Bank

Chase Bank is a U.S.-based financial institution that offers cross-border banking options for Canadians. You’ll have the option to choose from several different accounts, so you can find something to suit your specific needs.

Note that to open an account with Chase Bank, you will need to have a Social Security Number (SSN). You’ll also be required to deposit a specific amount of money into your account when you open it and maintain a specific balance to avoid being charged fees.

Chase Bank offers ATMs throughout the United States and several financial services and products, such as online banking, personal loans, mortgages, wealth management and more.

Desjardins Florida

If you’re a Canadian who travels to, owns a home in, works or does business in Florida, you may want to consider opening an account with Desjardins Florida. This bank is associated with Desjardins Caisse Bank in Canada so you can open an American account from Canada with ease. You’ll be able to use your Desjardins Bank debit card and the multiple products and services that the financial institution offers.

Transaction fees are low, so you won’t need to maintain a high balance like with other banks. However, to open an account, you will have to make a minimum deposit to be paid via a funds transfer.

TD Bank

TD Bank offers cross-border banking options specifically designed for Canadians who travel to, work in or live in the States on a part-time basis.

With a TD Bank account, you’ll be able to avoid fluctuating high foreign exchange fees because you’ll be able to pay American dollars when you’re in the U.S. You’ll also have the benefit of being able to move money around with ease; you can transfer money right online or over the phone 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also access cash from your U.S.-based checking account from one of the thousands of TD banks or ATMs located across the United States.

Options for Canadians at TD Bank include:

  • Borderless Plan. A TD Canada Trust checking account specifically designed for Canadians who regularly travel to the U.S. Fees are low and you can make unlimited transactions; however, the minimum monthly balance is a bit on the high side if you want to take advantage of the fee rebate.

  • TD Convenience Checking. With this checking account, you don’t have to maintain as high a balance as you would have to with a Borderless Plan account.

  • TD U.S. Dollar Visa Card. A TD Canadian Trust credit card, you’ll be able to make purchases with U.S. dollars without having to deal with conversion fees.

Other common banking options for Canadians

Apart from these banks, there are other banking options to consider, too, including:

  • Toronto-Dominion Bank

  • Bank of Nova Scotia

  • HSBC

  • National Bank of Canada

  • RBC Bank

  • Royal Bank of Canada

  • Bank of Montreal

Each bank offers different options, and the requirements for opening and maintaining accounts vary from financial institution to financial institution. Therefore, we recommend you explore the different options that are available and consider your specific needs before you decide which bank you should choose.

The takeaway

Canadians with a U.S-based bank account can avoid expensive exchange rates and won’t have to deal with the hassle of converting money from U.S. dollars to Canadian dollars. Just remember that, whichever bank you choose, make sure you find out what the requirements and options are to find the best bank for you.

Use your foreign credit history to start your U.S credit history

New to the U.S.? Check if you can use your country's credit history in the U.S. to apply for credit cards and start your U.S credit history using Nova Credit. No SSN is needed to start your U.S credit history.

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Canadian Bank Account Options in the United States | Nova Credit (2024)

FAQs

Can you open a Canadian bank account from the US? ›

Can I Open a Canadian Bank Account from the US? Yes, it is possible. Typically, most banks in Canada will require you to make a personal appearance for you to open a bank account.

What is required for a Canadian to open a bank account in USA? ›

As such, Canadian citizens should obtain an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) in order to open an account. You might also need to provide other identification documents, including two pieces of government-issued ID, your passport, and a document that proves your address, such as a utility bill.

Which Canadian banks have branches in the USA? ›

Canadian Banks in the U.S.
  • BMO Harris. BMO Harris makes it very easy for a Canadian to open a U.S. bank account. ...
  • CIBC Online Banking. This is another bank that provides you with the opportunity of opening a U.S. bank account. ...
  • RBC Georgia. ...
  • Desjardins Florida. ...
  • NatBank by National Bank. ...
  • Chase. ...
  • TD Bank.
Nov 15, 2022

Can I open a Canadian bank account from outside Canada? ›

CMPA applicants from outside of Canada can start the process of opening a Canadian bank account and then finalize the process upon arrival in Canada. By starting this process, applicants can acquire the banking information needed to complete a CMPA application.

Can a Canadian citizen open a Chase bank account in the US? ›

You'll need to provide official, government-issued photo identification. Many of these requirements may be familiar to U.S. citizens as well. Some financial institutions may require more than one form of ID to verify your identity, particularly for non-residents.

Can a non resident open a Canadian bank account? ›

Yes! Foreigners are eligible to open bank accounts in Canada as long as they provide sufficient identifications properly.

Can I open a Canadian bank account online? ›

Yes, bank account opening online is quick and easy in Canada. Whether you're looking to open a chequing account online or set up an online savings account, you can now open a bank account in Canada from anywhere.

Does Canada have Chase bank? ›

1982: Chase Manhattan Canada Ltd. receives its charter as a Canadian bank. 1988: J.P. Morgan Securities Canada Inc. is the first U.S. securities subsidiary established in Canada. 1994-2000: J.P. Morgan opens offices in Montreal and Calgary.

What is the easiest bank account to open online? ›

Easiest Bank Accounts To Open Online
  • Easiest account to open — Revolut.
  • 2nd-easiest account to open — Chime.
  • 3rd-easiest account to open — Capital One.
  • 4th-easiest account to open — Current.
  • 5th-easiest account to open — Wise.
  • 6th-easiest account to open — Majority.
  • FAQ about online banking.

Can I use TD Bank in USA? ›

When you bank with TD, we make travelling to the U.S. a breeze. We'll help answer all your questions so you can find the best solution for your trip. Your TD Access Card is accepted in the U.S. and in 200 countries worldwide where Visa is accepted1.

Which Canadian bank is international? ›

Canada's Most International Bank | Scotiabank.

Is there TD Bank in USA? ›

It operates primarily across the East Coast, in fifteen U.S. states and Washington, D.C. TD Bank is the seventh-largest U.S. bank by deposits and the 11th largest bank in the United States by total assets, resulting from a series of several mergers and acquisitions.

Can I have a Canadian bank account while living abroad? ›

Note: You can keep a Canadian bank account and it can be really useful while living in the U.S. or overseas to have one! But change your address on this account to your new non-Canadian address. Do not change it to a family member's address in Canada, even though it may seem convenient to do so.

Where can I open a bank account without residency? ›

However, larger banks such as US Bank, TD Bank, Bank of America, Chase, and Wells Fargo will allow non-residents to set up a checking account and a savings account. Instead of your SSN, they'll ask for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) and other documents.

How can I open a Canadian bank account from overseas? ›

What do you need to open a bank account in Canada?
  1. Your valid, unexpired passport.
  2. Your immigration papers (or permanent residency card if you have one)
  3. Your Social Insurance Number (SIN)
  4. Proof of address.
Nov 10, 2020

Does Chase accept Canadian money? ›

Yes, the chase bank exchange foreign currency similar to all other banks. The exchange rate of the chase bank is relatively competitive for the other exchanges and affect the currency market in the economy.

Can I use Chase Bank in USA? ›

You can use your numberless card to make free withdrawals at any Chase Bank ATM in the United States. If you're planning a holiday to a restricted destination such as Cuba, please note that you won't be able to use your card or any other Chase services there.

Does CIBC have US accounts? ›

The CIBC Bank USA Smart Account is available to CIBC clients with an eligible CIBC (Canada) deposit account or Personal Line of Credit (PLC) who are Canadian or U.S. residents and are over 18 years of age. The CIBC Bank USA Smart Account is a non-interest-bearing chequing account.

Can I open a Canadian bank account without a Canadian address? ›

Canadian banks will typically require you to be resident in the country before considering opening an account for you. This means you'll need proof of address, identity documents, immigration documents, and a government-issued reference number to progress your bank account application.

Do you need a SIN number to open a bank account in Canada? ›

The Income Tax Act requires banks to ask you for your Social Insurance Number (SIN) when you open an interest-bearing account, so the bank can report your interest income to the government. Other accounts, however, can be opened without your SIN.

Can the government see how much money is in your bank account? ›

The Short Answer: Yes. Share: The IRS probably already knows about many of your financial accounts, and the IRS can get information on how much is there.

What is the easiest bank account to open online Canada? ›

With HSBC EasyID you can start and finish your account application online and within a few minutes with instant identity verification.

Can you open a Royal Bank of Canada account online? ›

Personal accounts can be opened online, while business accounts must be opened at an RBC Royal Bank branch. You can currently open the following accounts through online banking: RBC Signature No-Limit Banking.

Which online bank is available for Canada? ›

Best Online Banks in Canada Owned by Credit Unions
  • Motusbank. motusbank is one of the newer entrants into the online Canadian banking world. ...
  • Alterna Bank. ...
  • Outlook Financial. ...
  • AcceleRate Financial. ...
  • Achieva Financial. ...
  • Hubert Financial. ...
  • KOHO. ...
  • Motive Financial.

Can I open a Canadian bank account from Chase? ›

Chase Bank is a U.S.-based financial institution that offers cross-border banking options for Canadians. You'll have the option to choose from several different accounts, so you can find something to suit your specific needs.

Is Wells Fargo available in Canada? ›

Wells Fargo & Company provides financial services in Asia, Canada, and Latin America through its duly authorized and regulated subsidiaries.

Is Royal Bank of Canada in the US? ›

Royal Bank opened a representative office in San Francisco, California. Further expansion into the United States included Royal Bank's opening of representative offices in Houston, Texas, Denver, Colorado and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and also a wholesale branch in Portland, Oregon.

Can I open a bank account online without going to the bank Canada? ›

You can open a bank account either in person, by electronic means or by telephone. The bank must be able to confirm your identity through proper identification.

What banks allow me to open an account online? ›

Wells Fargo, Bank of America, U.S. Bank and most other big banks offer the ability to open accounts on their websites. Some of the top online banks and credit unions — including Alliant Credit Union, Ally Bank, Discover Bank and SoFi — make it possible to open checking accounts online in just a few minutes.

Does Wells Fargo give second chance? ›

What bank gives you a second chance? Some banks that offer second-chance checking accounts are Varo, SoFi and Wells Fargo.

How can I open a TD Bank account in USA? ›

Open account
  1. Online. The fastest way to open an account. Open account.
  2. In person. Book an appointment at your local TD Bank to set up your account. Find a TD Bank.
  3. By phone. A Banking Specialist can walk you through opening an account online. 1-888-751-9000.

Can I use my U.S. debit card in Canada? ›

Yes. Cards issued by U.S. Bank can be used in most foreign countries for transactions.

Can I use my U.S. TD debit card in Canada? ›

You can use your card worldwide, anywhere Visa is accepted – in person, online, over the phone or to make purchases through your smart phone. And you can withdraw funds and check your balance for free at any TD ATM in the U.S. or Canada. You control how much money you spend.

What bank is in both Canada and US? ›

Why choose TD? Convenience: Access your Canada-based accounts at TD Canada Trust or U.S.-based accounts at TD Bank, America's Most Convenient Bank® online, through the TD mobile app or at any of the thousands of locations across Canada and the U.S. that have convenient extended hours.

What is the best Canadian bank? ›

  • Best Banks in Canada.
  • Best for Chequing: Scotiabank.
  • Best for Saving: EQ Bank.
  • Best for Investing: BMO.
  • Best for Mortgages: RBC.
  • Best for Loans: TD Bank.
  • Best for Small Businesses: CIBC.
  • Best for Online Banking: Tangerine.

Are Canadian banks safer than US banks? ›

Canada regulates its banks very strictly and doesn't let many players enter the market. As a result, Canadian banks tend to be safer than U.S. banks. In this article, I will explore two Canadian bank stocks that are relatively safe compared to their U.S. cousins.

Is TD Bank in U.S. connected to Canada? ›

TD Bank is TD Bank, N.A., a wholly-owned U.S. subsidiary of The Toronto-Dominion Bank. Member FDIC. Accounts issued by TD Bank, N.A. are not insured by Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation. TD Canada Trust does not provide service on TD Bank, N.A. products.

How do I transfer money from my Canadian TD account to my U.S. TD account? ›

  1. Step 1: Access Send Money. Open the TD app. ...
  2. Step 2: Register (one-time-only) The TD Global Transfer screen offers you an overview of the service and our partners. ...
  3. Step 3: Get an estimate. ...
  4. Step 4: Select and confirm transfer method. ...
  5. Step 5: Enter transfer details. ...
  6. Step 6: Review and confirm transfer.

Where is the main branch of TD Bank in USA? ›

1 Branch Office
UNINUMBranch NumberAddress
55116Main Office2035 Limestone Rd Wilmington, DE 19808

What happens if I stay out of Canada for more than 6 months? ›

If you stay longer than 6 months under the eTA program and your stay has not been extended by Citizenship and Immigration Canada (emergency situations only), you will lose your travel authorization and not be able to use the eTA for future trips.

How long can I stay out of Canada as a Canadian citizen? ›

In actual fact, you can be absent from Canada as long as you want. The Canadian government recognizes that citizens may travel extensively, work or study abroad. You will always maintain your Canadian citizenship. What absentia may affect is your Canadian health care coverage and income tax.

What happens if I have more than $10000 in a foreign bank account? ›

A United States person that has a financial interest in or signature authority over foreign financial accounts must file an FBAR if the aggregate value of the foreign financial accounts exceeds $10,000 at any time during the calendar year. The full line item instructions are located at FBAR Line Item Instructions.

What is the easiest country to open a non resident bank account? ›

Belize – Best choice for low deposit and remote opening

Generally, Belize is considered one of the easiest countries to have a bank account. The reason behind the popularity of Belize is its stability. To begin with, Belize's offshore banking system is among the most stable in the world based on its liquidity rates.

How can I open a bank account without proof of address in USA? ›

Requirements for opening bank accounts in the US
  1. Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
  2. A government-issued ID by a foreign country.
  3. Unexpired passport/ foreigner driver's license.
  4. Utility bills.
Jun 1, 2020

How to open a bank account in the US without being a citizen? ›

Yes, a foreigner can open a bank account in the U.S., it just takes some additional paperwork to make it happen. If you have a foreign government ID, passport or resident alien number from a green card, those will help. If you don't have a Social Security number, you'll need an ITIN.

Can I open a bank account in the USA if I'm Canadian? ›

Canadians can begin the process of opening a US bank account online. You can usually begin your application and start providing information on your computer or mobile device. However, you will likely need to visit an actual US bank branch in person in order to fully complete the registration process.

Can I open a TD account from outside Canada? ›

If you do not reside in Canada, you cannot open a new TD Direct Investing personal account, in accordance with the TD Direct Investing Foreign Resident policy.

Can a foreigner open a TD bank account? ›

TD Bank. TD Bank seems to be the easiest, simplest option as a non-resident or citizen. All you need to supply is a passport and a mailing address within the US.

How to open a bank account online in Canada from USA? ›

5 steps to open a bank account online in Canada
  1. Compare banks. Compare bank accounts you can open online from these trusted providers. ...
  2. Apply online. Apply for the bank account by completing the online application. ...
  3. Verify your identity. ...
  4. Your debit card arrives. ...
  5. Start using your online bank account.
Apr 12, 2023

How do I open a Canadian bank account from overseas? ›

You will need to have your immigration documents in order (study or work permit and more) and get in contact with your chosen bank to begin the process. Then you'll be contacted by the bank to set up your account (if all your paperwork is correct).

Can I open a bank account in another country from the US? ›

An international bank account is entirely possible and could offer benefits that you may not get with a bank account here at home. Be sure to take your own financial goals into consideration as you keep reading to learn why and how to open an international bank account.

Which bank is easy to open online in Canada? ›

With HSBC EasyID you can start and finish your account application online and within a few minutes with instant identity verification.

Can I keep a Canadian bank account while living abroad? ›

Yes! As long as you have appropriate forms of personal identification you can open a bank account in Canada while visiting Canada, using a foreign address for the account. In fact, this is the easiest and best way to open an "unrestricted" bank account that you can use while in Canada or while you are abroad!

Can the IRS see my foreign bank account? ›

Yes, eventually the IRS will find your foreign bank account. When they do, hopefully your foreign bank accounts with balances over $10,000 have been reported annually to the IRS on a FBAR “foreign bank account report” (Form 114).

Are offshore bank accounts illegal? ›

Is it legal to have an offshore bank account? There is nothing criminal about opening an offshore bank account. However, it is a crime to use an offshore account to avoid paying taxes or to attempt to shield funds from the U.S. government. Offshore banking should not be used for those purposes.

What ID do I need to open a Canadian bank account? ›

“Account opening requirements include two forms of valid ID such as passport, national ID card with photo or driver's license. You will also require a proof of residential address like a voter's card or utility bill.” The Royal Bank of Canada does provide specialist support for newcomers to the country.

What is the best online bank in Canada? ›

Best online banks in Canada
  • Tangerine. Tangerinehas over 2 million users and close to $40 billion in total assets. ...
  • EQ Bank. EQ Bank is the online banking branch of Equitable Bank. ...
  • Simplii. ...
  • Manulife Bank. ...
  • Motusbank. ...
  • Wealthsimple. ...
  • Nest Wealth. ...
  • Koho.

Which is the best Canadian bank? ›

  • Best Banks in Canada.
  • Best for Chequing: Scotiabank.
  • Best for Saving: EQ Bank.
  • Best for Investing: BMO.
  • Best for Mortgages: RBC.
  • Best for Loans: TD Bank.
  • Best for Small Businesses: CIBC.
  • Best for Online Banking: Tangerine.
3 days ago

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