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Housing and Banking Checklist

We are a Canadian Trusted Relocation Management Company

AHOM™ RMC is a Canadian relocation management company (private, women-led, NCAGE/DUNS registered, WBE. We deliver housing-first relocation services for individuals, families, corporate clients, and government agencies across Canada.

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Let AHOM Walk you into Your Newcomer Advantage Need Travel Documents? Welcome to CNAP — Your Comprehensive Newcomer Adjustment Framework Canada’s first branded, fully integrated newcomer adjustment program combines essential housing assistance, financial literacy, and intercultural training in one scalable, effective model. Through CNAP, newcomers gain the knowledge and skills to confidently navigate Canadian life, build economic stability, and cultivate meaningful community connections — all guided by AHOM’s trusted relocation expertise. Whether renting your first apartment, opening a bank account, or adapting to Canadian workplace culture, CNAP supports every step of your journey to belonging.
A.H.O.M™— (A .Home .of. Mine) - Where every Move feels like Coming Home
 
CANADIAN BANKS 

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Banks That Offer Pre-Arrival Online Account Opening

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  • CIBC (Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce)

    • The CIBC Smart™ Arrival program lets newcomers apply online from overseas, verify identity remotely, fund the account before arriving, and pick up cards upon arrival.

  • Scotiabank

    • Scotiabank’s StartRight® International Account can be opened online by newcomers and international students before arrival. This allows you to transfer funds to Canada in advance and pick up your debit card when you arrive.

  • National Bank of Canada

    • Offers the option to open an account online from abroad with a secure form. The account is fully activated upon your arrival in Canada.

  • Desjardins

    • Desjardins allows you to apply online from outside Canada and enjoy their special newcomer offers.

  • ICICI Bank Canada

    • ICICI Bank provides the Hello Canada Account, which can be opened while in your home country and converted to a regular Canadian account upon arrival.

Important Notes

  • Most banks require you to finalize the account (such as collecting your debit card or verifying documents) at a branch after you arrive in Canada.

  • Required documents may include a valid passport, proof of immigration status, and sometimes proof of Canadian address or arrival date.

  • Check the specific eligibility and steps for your country with each bank.

These pre-arrival programs help newcomers move their funds in advance and start settling quickly after landing in Canada.

The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) considers you a newcomer for the first year you’re here.

You become a tax resident on the day you arrive, based on your connections to Canada. 

Get a Social Insurance Number (SIN) 

A Social Insurance Number (SIN) is a nine-digit code essential for many activities, like working, opening a bank account and other benefits for newcomers in Canada.
A Social Insurance Number (SIN) is a nine-digit code essential for many activities, like working, opening a bank account and other benefits for newcomers in Canada.
Which large and medium banks should I prioritize contacting as a newcomer
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