Guide

Buying a home on arrival: a mortgage without Canadian credit history

Lenders assess down payment, verifiable income and credit history. Newcomer programmes exist for the third, if you ask the right question at the first call.

⚠ Immigration thresholds and programs change fast — check the date

This page describes the general structure of the system, which stays stable. But exact thresholds, fees, and specific program statuses can change within weeks. Before relying on a specific figure or date below, confirm the current status on Quebec.ca or Canada.ca.

Check before acting

Lenders assess down payment, verifiable income and credit history. Newcomer programmes exist for the third, if you ask the right question at the first call.

The obstacle is the file, not the rate

Without a Canadian credit file, some lenders use an international reference or rental history, others require time in the country. Ask about eligibility before visiting houses.

Official sources

Sources: CMHC — insured mortgages (https://www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca/en/); Autorite des marches financiers (https://lautorite.qc.ca/en/). Checked September 20, 2026 — amounts, deadlines and fees are not reproduced here: confirm with the official source.

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