Your credit history doesn’t move with you — every newcomer starts at zero in Canada. Here is the fastest honest path to your first credit score.
The easiest path: the RBC, TD, Scotiabank, BMO and CIBC newcomer packages include a credit card with no Canadian history required. Use it for small purchases and pay it in full, on time, every month. That payment history is your credit file being built.
Neo’s Secured card needs a refundable $50+ deposit (your limit equals your deposit) and reports to both Equifax and TransUnion. Honest caveat: it requires the $9.99/month Build membership — factor that cost in before choosing it over a free newcomer card.
KOHO opens a $225 line of credit in your name — no deposit, no interest — and reports to Equifax every month. Credit Building costs $10/month on the free Essential plan. A decent no-bank-account option.
Pay on time, every time — one missed payment hurts more than anything else helps. Keep balances under 30% of your limit. Don’t apply for five cards at once; each application is a small ding.
How long? Expect 6–12 months of history before you have a meaningful score. Check it free with Borrowell (Equifax) or Credit Karma (TransUnion) — checking your own score never hurts it.
Compare newcomer banking offers — most bundle the credit card from step 1.
