Moving to a new country is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming — new routines, new cities, new seasons and a new financial system to navigate. In Canada, the banking landscape can feel unfamiliar, with different account types, fees and credit practices.
Without guidance, even small decisions — like choosing an everyday savings account or setting up a first credit card — can feel daunting. That’s why the right support makes all the difference.Ìý
A head start before arrival
µþ²Ñ°¿â€™s pre-arrival program gives applicants in 13 countries the chance to open a bank account — and, if eligible, an International Student GIC — before they arrive.
“The program enables online applicants in eligible jurisdictions to have their BMO pre-arrival bank account applications processed instantly,†said Sumit Sarkar, Head of Customer Growth, Segments and Value Proposition for BMO.
Early access means newcomers can land in Canada ready to pay rent, set up phone plans and take care of daily needs without delay — and with the added benefit of two years of no-fee banking once their account is activated. To complement that, offers interactive lessons on budgeting, credit and investing at no cost — practical knowledge that helps ease the transition into the Canadian banking system.Ìý
“At BMO, we understand the challenges that newcomers face when settling in Canada,†Sarkar said. “BMO SmartProgressâ„¢ can help newcomers build confidence through interactive modules, enabling good financial habits right from the start.â€
Settling in with support
Once here, it’s important to set up banking essentials — the is designed with that in mind. It provides up to $2,300 in value*, including no monthly fees for two years on the Performance Chequing account*. Those first two years give newcomers room to adjust while building financial habits that set them up for success, helping to make the transition to life in Canada as seamless as possible.Ìý
Tools to build confidence
Building confidence is an important part of starting fresh in a new country, and BMO extends that support beyond everyday accounts. Digital resources like help clients set and track goals, while the connects new Canadians with opportunities and networks to support their broader integration. Together, these tools reflect µþ²Ñ°¿â€™s holistic approach — helping newcomers not only manage money, but also feel more established in their new community.Ìý
“BMO is committed to helping customers make real financial progress by continuing to invest in digital capabilities and aiming to be the bank of choice for newcomers, both before and after arrival,†explained Sarkar.
A sense of connection
Practical tools matter — but so does feeling at home in a new country. BMO supports newcomers not only through banking programs, but also by building connections with communities across Canada. One example is its partnership with cricket star Rohit Sharma as its Global Cricket Ambassador, helping to connect newcomers with a piece of home.Ìý
“Rohit Sharma’s story of ambition and success is an inspiration for many across the globe, including fans who come to Canada to build a new life,†said Sarkar. “Sports creates a sense of community and connection beyond borders and our partnership with Rohit speaks to the global connection cricket brings to people and allows us to meet newcomers wherever they are in their financial journey.â€
Sharma agrees. “From becoming captain to playing on new turf, I know firsts can be scary. But teaming up with BMO was simple. They know how to help get your financial ball rolling in a new place.â€
Finding your footingÌý
The first few months in a new country are full of small victories. With the BMO NewStart® Program— including its two years of no-fee banking on the Performance Chequing account* — and digital tools such as BMO SmartProgress™, newcomers can spend less time worrying about logistics and more time focusing on building their new life in Canada. With the right resources behind them, financial progress doesn’t just start on day one — it keeps building for the future.
To learn more about the BMO NewStart® Program, visit or stop by a local BMO branch.Ìý
*Terms and conditions apply.
