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Foreign Workers

As a foreign worker, you’ll be moving from your home country to Canada for work, which can be a big change. But we can help you throughout your financial journey. Whether you're looking for guidance or products to help manage your finances in Canada, TD has solutions to help make banking easier.

How TD helps foreign workers

At TD, we want to help make your move as easy as possible. Since you'll need to have access to money once you arrive, we can help you open and transfer money into a new TD account. If you’re currently living in China or India, here’s how we can help you get started: 

Open a chequing account

We'll help you set up a bank account, so your money is protected and accessible. If you live in China or India, you can set up a TD bank account over the phone. Then within 75 days, visit a TD branch in Canada to activate your account.

Transfer your money before you arrive

After setting up your new TD bank account, you can transfer up to $25,000 into your account before your arrival. Once you arrive in Canada, visit a TD branch in Canada to activate your new bank account.      

Book an appointment

Guiding your journey

As you plan on moving to Canada for work, you may want to consider a couple factors to help make your move as seamless as possible. Here are some things to consider and prepare for, before you arrive:

  1. Get your credentials assessed.
    The credentials you have from your home country may not fully be recognized in Canada. Compare your qualifications and verify what's needed to get the certification/license required for your job.

  2. Apply for a work permit.
    To work in Canada, you'll need a work permit. You can apply for either an Employer-specific work permit or an Open work permit. The Government of Canada's website can help you figure out which to get.

  3. Plan and prepare your finances.
    The cost of living in Canada is likely different than your home country. Wherever you plan on settling in Canada, it's important to prepare for expenses such as your home, food, transportation, etc.

  1. Secure a place to live before you arrive.
    Whether you live with family or rent a home, the choice is yours. However, if you want to buy a home, review the rules for non-Canadians from the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation website.

  2. Prepare all the documentation needed for your arrival.
    When arriving in Canada, you'll need to present your passport, visitor visa (if needed), travel documents, an approved work permit and at times, proof of work experience and your offer of employment.*

  3. Work on improving your English and/or French.
    English and French are the official languages of Canada. If either of them is not your native language, enhancing your language skills can help you in your daily interactions and with your new job.

New to Canada Banking Package

At TD, we want to help you manage your money with confidence. Get started with our New to Canada Banking Package.

Book an appointment

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, foreign workers are able to open and hold TD bank accounts based on eligibility requirements.

Yes, you are able to open a chequing account without a SIN number, as long as the account does not earn interest. When opening an account in a TD branch, you'll be required to bring your:

  • Temporary Work Permit (IMM Form #1442/1102) 

And one personal ID: 

  • A valid passport
  • Canadian driver’s license
  • Canadian Government ID Card

If you currently live in China or India, you can call us to help you set up an account. However, you will have 75 days from your initial set up to visit a TD branch to activate your TD bank account.

Make sure you have your Canadian Immigration Visa ready when you call.

Once you arrive in Canada, visit a TD branch to activate your new bank account.

With TD Global Transfer™, we offer multiple ways for you to send money internationally.

  • Western Union® Money TransferSM
  • Visa Direct
  • International Bank Transfer

Registering for EasyWeb online banking is easy. Click here to register now.

Resources to help get you started

More resources for foreign workers

  • TD New to Canada Banking Package

    Explore chequing accounts, savings accounts and credit cards.

  • Send money

    We make it easy to send money to over 200 countries and territories with TD Global TransferTM.

  • Ways to bank with TD

    Bank online, in person or by phone. Plus, use the TD app for convenient banking on the go.

Get in touch

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