Open a bank account in Canada with Desjardins Are you planning to move to Montréal, or have you recently arrived? Here you'll find the information you need to better understand the Canadian banking system, recognized as one of the strongest internationally by the World Economic Forum.
What are the benefits of opening an account in Montréal before you arrive? Make your move to Montréal easier by opening a bank account online from your country of residence before you leave. With Desjardins, you can transfer funds before you arrive, which can prove very useful during the first few weeks or months in a new country!
What documents will you need? To open your bank account, all you need is your passport and an official document from the Government of Canada or the Government of Quebec, issued as part of your immigration application (e.g. letter of acceptance or work permit).
How do you proceed once you've arrived in Montréal? Once you're in Montréal, make an appointment with a financial advisor to finalize the opening of your bank account. You'll need to provide the Canadian documents you received when you landed. Desjardins has a team dedicated to newcomers, who will explain to you how the banking system works, and the importance of building credit without having to wait. Make sure you bring along your ID (passport, driver's license, Canadian social insurance number, etc.) and the documents proving your status in Canada (visa, work permit, etc.).
Once your Canadian bank account is open, you will be ready to start your new life in Montréal!
Are there special offers available for recent immigrants? Some financial institutions provide personalized offers for immigrants to Canada. With the Desjardins banking package for newcomers, you get a bank account with unlimited free transactions for 1 year, a free credit card with no annual fee, recognition of all your previous driving experience when getting an auto insurance quote, and much more. 
Desjardins can help you at every step of your immigration process and get you set up with products and services tailored to newcomers like you.