Newcomer Mortgage Programs at Canada's Big Banks: RBC, TD, Scotiabank, and More

Published August 23, 2026

All six major Canadian banks offer newcomer mortgage programs — each with different loan-to-value (LTV) maximums, employment history requirements, and international credit recognition policies. If you're new to Canada, these specialized programs can help you secure a mortgage even if you lack a Canadian credit history or have been in the country for less than two years.

RBC Newcomer Mortgage

The RBC newcomer mortgage program is designed to help new Canadians purchase a home with as little as 5% down payment. Key features include:

  • Up to 95% LTV (Loan-to-Value) ratio for purchases up to $1 million
  • No Canadian credit history required
  • Employment letter from your new employer in Canada

TD New to Canada Mortgage

The TD new to Canada mortgage program offers flexible options for newcomers. Highlights include:

  • Up to 95% LTV for purchases up to $1 million
  • No Canadian credit history required
  • Employment letter or proof of permanent residency

Scotiabank StartRight Mortgage

The Scotiabank StartRight mortgage program is tailored for newcomers with unique benefits:

  • Up to 95% LTV for purchases up to $1 million
  • No Canadian credit history required
  • Employment letter or proof of permanent residency

Big Bank Newcomer Programs Comparison

Here's a comparison of the key features of the newcomer mortgage programs offered by Canada's big banks:

BankProgram NameMaximum LTVCanadian Credit History RequiredEmployment Letter Required
RBCNewcomer Mortgage95%NoYes
TDNew to Canada Mortgage95%NoYes
ScotiabankStartRight Mortgage95%NoYes
BMONewcomer Mortgage95%NoYes
CIBCNewcomer Mortgage95%NoYes
National BankNewcomer Mortgage95%NoYes

BMO Newcomer Mortgage

The BMO newcomer mortgage program is another excellent option for new Canadians. Key features include:

  • Up to 95% LTV for purchases up to $1 million
  • No Canadian credit history required
  • Employment letter from your new employer in Canada

CIBC Newcomer Mortgage

The CIBC newcomer mortgage program offers a range of benefits for newcomers. Highlights include:

  • Up to 95% LTV for purchases up to $1 million
  • No Canadian credit history required
  • Employment letter or proof of permanent residency

National Bank Newcomer Mortgage

The National Bank newcomer mortgage program is designed to help new Canadians secure a mortgage with ease. Key features include:

  • Up to 95% LTV for purchases up to $1 million
  • No Canadian credit history required
  • Employment letter from your new employer in Canada

Tip: If you're a newcomer looking to build your Canadian credit history, consider opening a secured credit card or becoming an authorized user on someone else's credit card. This can help you establish a credit history more quickly, making it easier to qualify for better mortgage rates in the future. For more details, check out our guide on how to build Canadian credit as a new immigrant.

Key Takeaways

If you're a newcomer to Canada looking to purchase a home, the big bank immigrant mortgage program Canada options can be incredibly helpful. Here are some key takeaways:

  1. All six major Canadian banks offer specialized programs for newcomers.
  2. These programs typically allow for up to 95% LTV, making it easier to secure a mortgage with a smaller down payment.
  3. Canadian credit history is not required, but an employment letter or proof of permanent residency is usually necessary.

For more information on how these programs compare to other mortgage options, check out our article on how the Big 6 banks in Canada compare. Additionally, if you're considering a commercial property, be sure to read about commercial mortgage renewal in Canada.

If you're planning to buy a home in the North, don't miss our guide on real estate and mortgage rules in Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut. And for a comprehensive overview of buying your first home as a new immigrant, check out our complete guide to buying a first home in Canada.

By understanding these programs and their requirements, you can make an informed decision about which bank's newcomer mortgage program is right for you. Good luck with your home-buying journey!

Reviewed for accuracy
Manbir Natt BCFSA Lic. #MB612411
Licensed mortgage broker · MBA, Rotman School of Management, University of Toronto

AI-generated content. This article was produced with AI assistance and reviewed for general accuracy. It is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, mortgage, or legal advice. Always consult a licensed mortgage professional before making any financial decisions.

This article is for informational purposes only and is not mortgage, financial, or legal advice. Speak with a licensed mortgage professional about your specific situation.

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