Can You Open A Bank Account Online In Canada?

EMT, eStatement, Apple Pay. All these words tie to the digitization of money and spending. In this day and age; people no longer need to go in person to their banks, they can handle everything online.  Over the last few years, online banking has become quite popular due to its low fees and easy accessibility. Moreover, it is as simple as ever to open a bank account online in Canada.

Can You Open A Bank Account Online In Canada?

In Canada, opening a bank account is as easy as opening your browser and going to your bank’s website. Through online banking, you can open a chequings or savings account; you can even open a TFSA or an investing account.

Benefits Of Opening A Bank Account Without Having To Visit A Branch

• Save Time – You don’t need to make a trip to your branch; you can skip the hassle and save time.
• 24/7 Access – You can make changes to your account outside of your branch’s hours of operation, which are typically Monday to Friday 9AM to 5PM. Moreover, you have the freedom and flexibility to bank when you want and how you want. .
• Easy Online Process – It usually only takes around 5 minutes to open a bank account and get started. The application forms are all available online and are easy and convenient to use.

Which Banks Can You Open A Bank Account Online?

What Do You Need To Open A Bank Account Online?

In order to open up a bank account online, there are a few documents you will need in order to verify your identification and get the ball rolling.

Personal Information

You have to tell the bank who you are. You’ll need your Social Insurance Number and other personal information about yourself including your address.

Identification

Proof of identification will be required to validate your identity as a security measure for fraud prevention. You may be required to provide two pieces of identification which can be taken from the list below, reach out to your bank if you have any questions:

• Current Canadian Passport
• Driver’s License
• Canadian Birth Certificate
• Provincial/Territorial Health Card
• Permanent Resident Status Card

Contact Information

You will need to provide your bank with your up-to-date contact information so they can get in contact with you concerning your account.

What Are The Minimum Requirements To Open A Bank Account Online?

In order to open up a bank account online, there are a few eligibility requirements that must be met:

• You must be at least 18, or the age of majority in the province or territory you reside in. In some cases, however, minors can open up a bank account with a guardian’s support.
• You must be a Canadian resident with an address in Canada.
• As detailed above, you must supply a government-issued ID and may have to scan it and send a copy of it to your bank.

Do You Need Money To Open A Bank Account Online?

It is not necessary for you to have cash in order to open a bank account online. Most Canadian banks do NOT require an initial deposit to get your account started. It is, however, advisable to put money into your account shortly after opening if your account is charged a monthly usage fee. If your account is charged and there are no funds in it to cover the cost, you may be charged NSF (non-sufficient fund) fees.

Signatures And Opening A Bank Account Online

Depending on what bank you end up signing on with, you may need to provide a physical copy of your signature or an e-signature may suffice. If your bank is okay with e-signatures, you can start banking almost immediately, however, if you need to provide a physical signature, it may lengthen the process. It is best to contact your bank ahead of time and figure out what their procedure is.

Opening A Bank Account Online As A Newcomer To Canada

If you’re new to Canada, you might have a bit of a longer process, depending on what point you are at in your move. If you have yet to move and are in the process of moving, you can potentially open a bank account within 75 days before your impending arrival. This will require two forms to be filled out and then signed by a lawyer and sent to the bank you intend to open an account with:

• A Letter of Direction
• A Certificate of Identity

If you are currently in Canada, whether you just arrived or have been here for a while, you will need to apply for a Social Insurance Number before you can open up a bank account. Once you receive your SIN you will need another piece of ID to open up an account (preferably a passport); it is likely that in this case, you will need to physically go to your branch in order to open your account.

Additional Reading

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How To Use An Online Bank Account

Once you have set up your bank account, it is time to start using it and making transactions. Through online banking, you can send and receive email transfers (EMT), pay off your credit card, and check on your balance, all from the comfort of your home There are multiple things you can do with your new bank account.

• Set up Payroll Deposits: If you are currently employed, you can set up direct deposit with your employer so that your paycheques go right into your account and you don’t need to manually deposit a cheque.
• Set up Recurring Bill Payments: For any bills you pay frequently (i.e. monthly), you can set up automatic withdrawals so you never have to worry about forgetting. You can do this for your cell phone and internet providers, as an example.

Features Of An Online Bank Account

• With an online banking account, there are several features you can use as long as you have an internet connection:
  • Paying for bills
  • Send online money transfers
  • Locate the nearest ATM to you in your bank’s network
  • Use currency converters and other helpful tools
  • Deposit cheques by taking a photo of them
  • Manage your investing accounts

Do Banks Have Mobile Deposits? 

Yes, they do, but it is always best to check with your bank to figure out the exact process. Typically, through your mobile banking app, you can make deposits by following these steps:

• Sign the back of the cheque you are looking to deposit.
• Using your bank’s mobile app, enter how much the cheque is for and which account you would like it to go to.
• Follow the app’s lead and take photos of the front and back of the cheque.

Things To Consider When Opening A Bank Account Online In Canada

Are You A Non-Resident?

Non-residents can, of course, still open a bank account. There are just often extra steps involved.

Do You Have A Thin Credit Profile?

When verifying your information, it is commonplace for the bank to check your credit and if you have little or no credit history they may require you to come into the branch.

Are You A Minor?

People under the age of 18 cannot open their own bank account and need a guardian to do so.

Do You Own A Business?

Some institutions do not allow you to open a business account online and you will have to do it in person.

Is This The Right Account For You?

Before you start the process of opening a new account, it is essential to consider how you’ll use the account, what fees you may be subject to, the amount of interest you can earn, and if you will be protected by deposit insurance. You must have a solid understanding of the terms and conditions of your new account before you make it; it is advisable to retain a copy of your account agreement for your records.

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Final Thoughts

All in all, opening a bank account online in Canada is very simple provided you have the necessary documentation and information. Having online banking access is very handy when dealing with your finances on a day-to-day basis.