Open a Scotiabank International Account* online before you arrive

With the StartRight™ Program1 you can apply for an Investment Account and transfer up to $50,000 CAD before moving to Canada.2

Why do you need an International Account before you move?

When moving to Canada, you're often required to prove you have enough money to cover the cost of living. An International Account can help you show proof of funds and prepare you for the move.

A Scotiabank International Account can help you

  • Feel more prepared knowing you have proof of funds ready

  • Reduce the need to carry large amounts of cash while traveling

Student banking with Scotiabank in Canada just makes sense

  • No monthly account fees on a student chequing account.

  • Earn Scene+™ rewards on your everyday purchases.

  • Scotia Smart Money budgeting tool.

  • 4,000+ ABM and convenient branch locations.

  • Personalized banking advice.

What documents do I need to bring?

Once you arrive in Canada, you’ll need to bring two forms of identification into a branch to set up your account.

  • Passport
  • Permanent Resident card
  • Citizenship and Immigration Canada Form (IMM 1000, IMM 1442, IMM 5688 or IM 2592)
  • If you're an international student, you must also bring proof of enrolment form your Canadian Educational Instituation

Why do I need a chequing account once I arrive?

You will need a chequing account for your regular banking needs like withdrawing cards and paying bills. You will have the option of transferring all or part of the funds from your International Account into your new chequing account. Once you arrive in Canada, you will need to book an appointment to visit a Scotiabank branch to set up your account.

A man and two children sitting on a couch, enjoying each other's company.

A chequing account lets you

  • Withdraw money by using your account debit card or taking out cash at a Scotiabank branch or ABM

  • Write cheques and move money from one account to another

  • Pay bills online and set up automatic payments for recurring monthly bills

  • Send money to or from the bank account of any participating Canadian bank electronically with Interac e-Transfers

Ready to open your account?

For your information, only selected countries are eligible for the Scotiabank International Account. Before we continue with your application, please make sure your country of origin is listed here: 

  • Brazil
  • Chile
  • China
  • Colombia
  • France
  • Germany
  • India
  • Mexico
  • Pakistan
  • Peru
  • Philippines
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Spain
  • UAE
  • UK
  • Venezuela
  • Vietnam
  • Senegal 
  • Morocco 

Is your country not listed here? Our team would be happy to help you with all of your banking needs once you arrive in Canada. Please contact us to book an appointment.

Apply for International Account

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Registered trademarks of The Bank of Nova Scotia.
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Trademark of The Bank of Nova Scotia.
*
A Scotiabank International Account is a Scotiabank Investment Account opened from outside of Canada. More information about the Scotiabank Investment account can be found here. Read more terms and conditions.
1
Scotiabank StartRight® Program is available only for Canadian Permanent Residents from 0-5 years in Canada, International Students and Foreign Workers.
2
Scotiabank cannot accept more than one wire payment per family and such payment cannot exceed CAD $50,000. You are responsible to ensure that your wire payment to Scotiabank in Canada, including the amount, is in compliance with the local laws of your country.