Landing in the US or Canada brings excitement—and financial hurdles. Without a local credit history, renting an apartment, getting a phone plan, or buying a car can feel impossible. But here’s the good news: building credit as a newcomer is straightforward with the right strategy. Follow this actionable guide to turn your "no credit" into a strong score quickly.
Why Credit Matters in North America
In the US and Canada, your credit score (typically 300–850) impacts:
✅ Rental applications
✅ Loan/credit card approvals
✅ Insurance rates
✅ Utility deposits (often $500+ without credit)
✅ Job opportunities (some employers check credit)
Newcomer Reality: Your financial history from your home country doesn’t transfer. You start at zero.
Step 1: Open a Bank Account (Your Foundation)
Do this immediately after arrival.
- US: Major banks (Chase, Bank of America) offer newcomer packages with checking accounts and starter credit cards.
- Canada: Scotiabank’s StartRight® or RBC’s Newcomer Advantage include credit-building tools.
- Pro Tip: Bring your passport, visa, and proof of address (lease/utility bill).
Step 2: Get Your First Credit Product
Option A: Secured Credit Card
- How it works: You deposit $200–$500 as collateral. This becomes your credit limit.
- Best for: Those with no credit history.
- Top Picks:
- US: Capital One Secured Mastercard ($0 annual fee)
- Canada: Home Trust Secured Visa (no income proof required)
Option B: Newcomer Credit Card
- Requirements: Valid visa/permanent residency. No credit history needed.
- Top Picks:
- US: Deserve® EDU (for students) or Chase Freedom Rise
- Canada: CIBC AC Conversion™ Visa (for newcomers < 3 years)
Option C: Become an Authorized User
- Ask a trusted friend/family member with good credit to add you to their card. Their history boosts your score.
Step 3: Use Your Credit Correctly (The 30% Rule)
Your payment history = 35% of your score. Avoid these traps:
🚫 Maxing out your card → Keep usage below 30% of your limit ($60 spent on a $200 limit card).
🚫 Late payments → Set up autopay for the minimum due.
🚫 Applying for multiple cards → Space applications by 6+ months.
Step 4: Add Diversity to Your Credit Mix
After 6–12 months of responsible card use, add:
- US: A credit-builder loan from Self or Credit Strong ($25/month).
- Canada: A small phone plan (Rogers/Bell) or utility account in your name.
- Impact: Shows you can manage different credit types → +20–50 points.
Step 5: Monitor and Grow Your Score
- Check reports monthly:
- Dispute errors: 1 in 5 reports have mistakes hurting scores.
- Increase limits: After 6 months of on-time payments, request a higher limit → lowers credit utilization.
4 Pitfalls Newcomers Must Avoid
- Using debit cards exclusively: Builds no credit.
- Ignoring "secured" options: They report to bureaus like regular cards.
- Closing your first card: Shortens credit history length (15% of your score).
- Cosigning too soon: If the main borrower defaults, your credit is destroyed.
Success Story: From 0 to 720 in 14 Months
"I moved to Toronto from India with no credit. I got a CIBC secured card, used it for groceries, and paid it off weekly. Added a Koodo phone plan after 8 months. Checked Borrowell for progress. In 14 months, I qualified for a car loan!"
– Raj T., Mississauga
The Bottom Line
Building credit takes 6–24 months—but starts on Day 1. By combining a secured card, on-time payments, and credit monitoring, you’ll unlock better rates and opportunities. Remember: North America runs on credit. Start yours today.
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