Yes, you can open most bank accounts online in Canada, but the process and what you need depends on which bank you choose

The major Canadian banks—Royal Bank, TD, Scotiabank, BMO, and CIBC—all let you start a chequing or savings account through their websites or apps without visiting a branch. You can complete the application in 10 to 20 minutes. However, you will need to verify your identity, and the method varies: some banks use video verification with a live agent, others use document upload, and a few still require you to visit a branch or use a third-party verification service to finish the process.

Smaller banks and online-only institutions like Tangerine, EQ Bank, and Simplii Financial also open accounts online, often with fewer steps because they do not offer in-branch services at all. The trade-off is that you lose access to physical locations if you need to deposit cash or speak to someone in person.

Key Takeaways

  • Major Canadian banks allow you to start an account application online, but most require identity verification through video call, document upload, or in-person visit before the account is active.
  • You will need a valid government-issued ID (passport, driver's license, or provincial ID card), proof of address (utility bill or lease dated within the last three months), and a Social Insurance Number.
  • Online-only banks like Tangerine and EQ Bank typically complete the entire process online without requiring you to visit a branch, but they do not accept cash deposits.
  • The account is usually ready to use within one to three business days after verification is complete, though some banks activate it the same day.
  • If you do not have a Canadian address or Social Insurance Number yet, you may need to visit a branch or use a bank that serves newcomers specifically.

What documents and information you need before you start

Have these items ready before you open the application: a valid government-issued photo ID (passport, driver's license, or provincial ID card), proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last three months), and your Social Insurance Number. If you do not have a SIN yet, some banks will let you open an account with a temporary number or will defer verification until you receive one.

You will also need an email address and a phone number where the bank can reach you. Some banks ask for employment information or your annual income, though this is not always required for a basic chequing account. If you are opening a joint account, both account holders need to provide their own ID and proof of address.

How the identity verification process works at each major bank

Royal Bank, TD, and Scotiabank use video verification as their primary online method. You schedule a short video call with a bank representative (or it happens immediately after you submit your application), show your ID and proof of address to the camera, and answer a few security questions. The call usually takes 5 to 10 minutes. Once verified, your account is active the same day or the next business day.

BMO and CIBC offer document upload as an alternative. You photograph or scan your ID and proof of address, upload them through the app or website, and the bank reviews them within one to three business days. This method is slower but does not require you to be available for a video call at a specific time.

Tangerine and EQ Bank use automated verification through third-party services like Equifax or Onfido. You answer security questions about your credit history, and the system verifies your identity instantly or within a few hours. No video call or document upload is needed. If automated verification fails, you may be asked to upload documents or visit a partner location.

Timeline: from application to using your account

The fastest route is video verification with a major bank. You can complete the application and video call on the same day, and your account is usually active within 24 hours. You will receive a temporary card number or access to a digital wallet (Apple Pay, Google Pay) immediately so you can make online purchases or tap to pay at stores while you wait for your physical debit card to arrive by mail (usually 5 to 10 business days).

Document upload takes longer. You submit your photos or scans, and the bank reviews them within one to three business days. Once approved, your account is activated, and your debit card is mailed separately. Total time is typically one to two weeks.

Online-only banks with automated verification are the fastest for account activation—sometimes within minutes or hours—but you will still wait for your physical card to arrive by mail. Some online banks offer no physical card at all and provide only digital access through their app.

What happens if you do not have a Canadian address or Social Insurance Number yet

If you are a newcomer to Canada and do not yet have a SIN, some banks will open an account using a temporary number or a letter from Service Canada confirming your application. Royal Bank, TD, and Scotiabank have programs specifically for newcomers and will accept a passport and proof of address (such as a lease or letter from your employer) even if your SIN is not yet issued.

If you do not have a Canadian address yet, you will likely need to visit a branch in person or wait until you have a lease or utility bill in your name. A few online banks accept a mailing address outside Canada temporarily, but this is rare. Contact the bank directly to ask whether they can accommodate your situation before you start the application.

Differences between online-only banks and traditional banks with branches

Online-only banks like Tangerine, EQ Bank, and Simplii Financial have no physical branches. They are faster to open online, charge no monthly fees, and often pay higher interest on savings accounts. The downside is that you cannot deposit cash in person, and if you need to speak to someone, you are limited to phone, email, or chat support. Some online banks partner with convenience stores or other retailers to accept cash deposits for a small fee.

Traditional banks with branches (Royal Bank, TD, Scotiabank, BMO, CIBC) let you deposit cash, get a certified cheque, or speak to an advisor in person. They may charge monthly fees unless you meet a minimum balance or set up direct deposit. Opening online is convenient, but you still have the option to visit a branch if you need to.

What to watch out for during the online application

Read the account terms before you submit. Some accounts have monthly fees, minimum balance requirements, or limits on how many free transactions you get per month. Many banks waive fees if you set up direct deposit (payroll or government benefits) or maintain a minimum balance, usually between $1,000 and $3,000.

Check whether the account includes overdraft protection and what the cost is. Some banks offer free overdraft up to a certain amount; others charge a fee each time you go over. Confirm what debit card features are included—some cards have no foreign transaction fees, while others charge 2 to 3 percent when you use them outside Canada.

Be cautious of phishing emails or texts that claim to be from the bank and ask you to verify your information. Banks will never ask you to confirm passwords or full account numbers by email or text. If you are unsure, hang up and call the bank's official number on the back of your card or on their website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open an account if I do not have a permanent address yet?

Most banks require a Canadian address on file. If you are staying temporarily, use your current address (hotel, Airbnb, friend's place) and update it later once you have a lease. Some banks let you use a mailing address that is different from your residential address, which can help if you are between moves.

How long does it take to receive my debit card in the mail?

Physical debit cards usually arrive within 5 to 10 business days after your account is activated. Most banks issue a temporary digital card number or add you to Apple Pay or Google Pay immediately so you can use your account right away while you wait for the physical card.

What if the bank rejects my identity verification?

If your documents are unclear or do not match the information you provided, the bank will ask you to resubmit them or visit a branch in person. Make sure your ID is not expired and that your proof of address is dated within the last three months. If you still have trouble, call the bank's customer service line and ask what additional documents they need.

Do I need a minimum deposit to open an account online?

Most Canadian banks do not require a minimum deposit to open an account online. You can open the account with zero dollars and deposit money later. However, some accounts waive monthly fees only if you maintain a minimum balance or set up direct deposit, so check the terms for the specific account type you are opening.

Can I open a joint account online with someone else?

Yes, but both account holders must complete the identity verification process separately. One person starts the application and adds the other person's information, then both must verify their ID through video call or document upload. The process takes longer because the bank needs to confirm both identities before activating the account.