Canada welcomes over 500,000 newcomers annually, and many want to buy a home as quickly as possible. The good news: there are mortgage programs specifically designed for newcomers that don't require Canadian credit history.
Newcomer Mortgage Programs in Ontario
CMHC Newcomer Program: Available to permanent residents and non-permanent residents with valid work permits. Allows as little as 5% down with CMHC insurance.
International Credit Programs: Some lenders accept credit references from your home country (US, UK, India, China, etc.) in lieu of Canadian credit history.
Employment Letter Programs: If you have a job offer or are employed in Canada, many lenders will approve you based on your employment letter and income.
What You'll Need
- Valid immigration documents (PR card, work permit, etc.)
- Proof of income (employment letter, pay stubs, or 2 years of tax returns)
- Down payment (typically 20-35% for newcomers without Canadian credit)
- International credit references (if available)
- Bank statements showing down payment source
Cities with Strong Newcomer Communities
Brampton, Mississauga, Scarborough, and Markham have large newcomer communities with support networks, cultural amenities, and community organizations that can help you settle in.
Sam's Newcomer Mortgage Expertise
Sam Sethi has helped hundreds of newcomers from India, Pakistan, Philippines, China, and other countries get their first Canadian mortgage. He understands the unique challenges newcomers face and knows which lenders are most flexible.
New to Canada and want to buy a home? Call Sam at 647-784-7924 — he speaks Punjabi and English.