Office 289-505-0631  ·  Direct 647-291-7116 Rajiv Verma, Mortgage Broker · Mortgage Architects · FSRA Licence #12728
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New to Canada mortgages — buy your first home sooner than you think

Newcomers can qualify for a mortgage with limited Canadian credit history. If you’ve been working here even a few months, let’s talk about getting you into your own home.

Quick answer: Newcomers to Canada can qualify for a mortgage — often with as little as a few months of local employment — through special new-to-Canada programs, even without an established Canadian credit history. Permanent residents and many work-permit holders are eligible.

What newcomers usually need

  • Proof of employment or income in Canada (a few months is often enough).
  • A down payment (gifted funds are frequently accepted).
  • Identification and immigration status (PR or eligible work permit).
  • Alternative credit references if you don’t yet have a Canadian score.

How I help newcomers

  • Match you to lenders with dedicated new-to-Canada programs.
  • Explain the process in plain language — in English or Punjabi.
  • Help you build Canadian credit for even better rates later.
Eligibility
PR & many work permits
Employment
Often just a few months
Credit
Alternative references accepted
Languages
English & Punjabi
AI-enabled FAQ

New to Canada — your questions, answered

Real answers to the questions clients actually ask. Search or tap any question.

Can newcomers to Canada get a mortgage?
Yes. Special new-to-Canada programs help permanent residents and many work-permit holders buy a home, often without an established Canadian credit history.
How long do I need to have worked in Canada?
Often just a few months of employment is enough for many newcomer programs, though requirements vary by lender and status.
Do I need a Canadian credit history?
Not necessarily. Lenders can consider alternative credit references — like rent, utilities, or an international credit report — while you build a Canadian score.
How much down payment do I need?
Similar to other buyers — from 5% on the first $500,000 for eligible programs — and gifted down payments are commonly accepted.
Can I qualify on a work permit?
Many work-permit holders qualify, depending on the permit and lender. I’ll confirm your options based on your status.
Are gifted down payments allowed?
Yes, gifts from close family are widely accepted with a simple gift letter — a common route for newcomers.
Will my rate be higher as a newcomer?
Not necessarily. Many newcomer programs offer competitive rates; building Canadian credit over time opens better options.
How do I start?
Book a free, friendly consultation — available in English or Punjabi — and I’ll map your path to homeownership in Canada.

Related services

First-time buyers · Pre-approval · Contact

New here and want to buy?

Let’s talk — in English or Punjabi — about getting you into your own home.

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Welcome to Canada — let’s get you home

Newcomer-friendly mortgage guidance, start to finish.

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Go deeper — the answer library

A thin Canadian credit file isn’t the same as bad credit — but lenders treat them differently. Knowing the thresholds before you apply matters more here than almost anywhere.

Open the New to Canada Centre →

Also relevant: Non-Residents & Foreign Buyers — the taxes, the exemptions, and what changes on 1 January 2027.