What do I need to open a bank account in Canada?

To open a Canadian bank account, you typically need: government-issued photo ID (passport, PR card, provincial driver's licence), a second piece of ID (health card in most provinces, SIN card, void cheque from another account), and proof of address (utility bill, bank statement, or government mail). Newcomers with foreign IDs can open accounts at most banks — the Big 5 all have newcomer banking programs that accept foreign passports. Some credit unions and online banks (EQ Bank, Simplii) allow fully online applications. You do not need a minimum deposit at most no-fee banks, though Big 5 accounts may require $0–$4,000 to waive monthly fees.

How does an Interac e-Transfer work in Canada?

An e-Transfer allows you to send money directly between Canadian bank accounts using email or mobile number (not account numbers). The sender initiates from their bank's app, enters the recipient email/mobile number and amount. The recipient receives a notification and deposits the money into their account. Most banks now use "Autodeposit" — the recipient pre-registers and money is deposited instantly without needing to answer a security question. Limits vary by bank (TD: $3,000–$10,000/day; RBC: $3,000/day; Simplii: $3,000/day). For large transfers (down payments, business), wire transfers or bank drafts are safer and have higher limits.

How do I switch banks in Canada?

Switching banks is less hassle than most people expect: (1) Open your new account and set up direct deposit before closing the old one. (2) Update any pre-authorized payments (utilities, insurance, subscriptions) to the new account. (3) Keep the old account open for 30–60 days with a small balance to catch any missed payments. (4) Once all payments have migrated, close the old account in writing (get a confirmation email). Regulatory rule: you can request free help from your new bank to move your pre-authorized debits — they are required to assist under the CBA voluntary guidelines. Moving your mortgage or investment products takes more steps but is doable — your bank should not "punish" you for switching.

What is CDIC deposit insurance and how much does it cover?

The Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation (CDIC) insures eligible deposits at member banks up to $100,000 per depositor per insured category. Key categories: deposits in your own name, joint deposits, RRSP deposits, TFSA deposits, RRIF deposits, RESP deposits, and registered disability savings plan (RDSP) deposits. Each category is insured separately — so individual deposits + joint deposits + RRSP deposits could total $300,000+ of coverage at a single bank. Credit unions are not CDIC members but are insured by provincial deposit protection organizations (e.g., Deposit Guarantee Corporation of Manitoba, Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario). Quebec credit unions (Desjardins) are covered by the Autorité des marchés financiers.

Banking in Canada: How to Open, Manage & Switch Accounts 2026

Every Canadian needs at least one chequing account and one savings vehicle. Understanding how the banking system works — fees, transfers, safety, and how to move between banks — helps you save money and avoid frustrating surprises.

Bank account types overview

Account Type	Purpose	Key Feature
Chequing	Day-to-day spending	Free or paid monthly fee; e-transfers; debit card
Savings / HISA	Growing savings	Higher interest; limited transactions
TFSA savings	Tax-sheltered savings	No tax on interest; contribution room limits
GIC / term deposit	Fixed-term savings	Locked rate; can be inside TFSA or non-registered
Business chequing	Business transactions	Higher fees; additional features
US Dollar account	Foreign currency	Avoid conversion fees on US transactions

Banking in Canada: How to Open, Manage & Switch Accounts 2026

Bank account types overview

Banking basics articles

Opening accounts

Fees

Transfers and payments

Cheques

Security and fraud

Routing and identification

Deposit insurance and rates

Special accounts

HELOC

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