Newcomer Guide

New to Canada Mortgage Guide

Welcome to Canada! You don't need years of credit history to own a home. Discover specialized mortgage programs designed specifically for newcomers to help you achieve homeownership faster.

Keys, smile and portrait of family in new home for moving, property investment and security. Happiness, mortgage approval and real estate with parents and child in living room of house for rent
35%
Down Payment
As Low As 5%

Who Qualifies as a Newcomer?

Understanding eligibility requirements for newcomer mortgage programs in Canada

Permanent Residents

Landed within the last 5 years with PR card

Work Permit Holders

Valid work permit with 12+ months remaining

International Students

Study permit holders with job offer or PR application

Protected Persons

Refugees or protected status holders

Why Choose Newcomer Programs?

No Canadian Credit History Required

Your international credit can be considered

Lower Down Payment Options

As low as 5% down for eligible buyers

Flexible Employment Requirements

Job offer letters accepted in some cases

Foreign Income Considered

International income can help you qualify

Competitive Interest Rates

Access prime rates from major lenders

Expert Guidance

Support navigating the Canadian system

Down Payment Requirements

Understanding your down payment options based on purchase price

5%

Under $500,000

Minimum Down Payment

5% minimum down payment

CMHC insurance required

Example: $25,000 on $500K

7.5%

$500K - $1M

Blended Rate

5% on first $500K

10% on amount over $500K

Example: $60,000 on $700K

20%

Over $1 Million

Conventional Mortgage

20% minimum required

No mortgage insurance

Example: $240,000 on $1.2M

Acceptable Down Payment Sources

Personal Savings

Your own funds in Canadian or international accounts

Gift from Family

Non-repayable gift from immediate family

Sale of Property

Proceeds from selling property abroad

Investment Income

Returns from stocks, bonds, or other investments

Important Note

All down payment funds must be verified and show a 90-day history. Borrowed funds (loans, line of credit) are not acceptable as down payment.

Required Documentation

What you'll need to apply for a newcomer mortgage in Canada

Immigration Status

  • Valid passport with travel history
  • Permanent Resident card (PR card)
  • Work permit or study permit (if applicable)
  • Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR)
  • Visa or entry stamp

Employment & Income

  • Job offer letter or employment contract
  • Recent pay stubs (if working in Canada)
  • Employment verification letter
  • Foreign income documentation (if applicable)
  • Notice of Assessment (if filed Canadian taxes)

Financial Information

  • 90-day bank statements (Canadian accounts)
  • International bank statements (if applicable)
  • Investment account statements
  • Gift letter (if using gifted funds)
  • Proof of down payment source

Credit & ID

  • Canadian driver's license (if available)
  • Social Insurance Number (SIN)
  • Foreign credit report (if no Canadian credit)
  • Proof of current address in Canada
  • Letter of explanation for your situation

Pro Tip

Start gathering these documents as soon as you arrive in Canada. Opening a Canadian bank account and building a credit history early will give you more mortgage options and better rates when you're ready to buy.

The Application Process

Your step-by-step journey to securing a newcomer mortgage

1. Initial Consultation

Meet with me to discuss your situation, goals, and review your eligibility for newcomer programs.

⏱️ Duration: 30-60 minutes
1
2

2. Pre-Approval

Submit your documents and get pre-approved to know exactly how much you can borrow and your estimated rate.

⏱️ Duration: 2-5 business days

3. Home Search

Armed with your pre-approval, work with a realtor to find your perfect home within your budget.

⏱️ Duration: Varies (weeks to months)
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4

4. Formal Application

Once your offer is accepted, we'll submit a full mortgage application with all supporting documentation.

⏱️ Duration: 1-2 days to submit

5. Underwriting & Appraisal

The lender reviews your application, orders a property appraisal, and verifies all documentation.

⏱️ Duration: 7-14 business days
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6. Approval & Closing

Receive final approval, meet with your lawyer, sign documents, and get your keys!

⏱️ Duration: 1-2 days

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Let's get you pre-approved and on the path to homeownership in Canada.