Practical Money Guides for Newcomers to the USA and Canada
Money Abroad Guide is a free financial guide for immigrants in the USA and Canada. Because the rules differ on each side of the border, we explain banking, credit, housing, and taxes in plain English.
Where are you starting?
Clear guidance, so you can act with confidence. No financial jargon.
What do you need help with?
Banking
First, compare accounts and check the usual requirements. As a result, you avoid unnecessary fees.
Credit
Build a credit history from zero. Above all, learn how scoring really works locally.
Cost of Living
Realistic budget breakdowns, so there are no surprises after you arrive.
Money Transfers
Compare transfer apps and fees first. Then send your money with confidence.
Starting in the USA
First, open a bank account. Then build credit, manage housing costs and take your first financial steps.
Starting in Canada
Understand banking, credit, living costs and housing. In addition, get the newcomer financial essentials.
What This Financial Guide for Immigrants Covers
Moving countries changes almost everything about your money. First, you need a bank account. Then you need a credit history, because lenders in the USA and Canada cannot see the one you built at home. Finally, you need to know how taxes and health coverage work where you now live.
That is why this financial guide for immigrants walks through each of those steps in order. Moreover, every guide is written in plain English. In addition, each one cites official sources such as the IRS, the FDIC, the CFPB, the FCAC, the CRA and the CDIC.
So whether you landed last week or last year, you can start where you are. Above all, this financial guide for immigrants stays practical, current and free.
See How Bank Fees Add Up
Enter the fees you know and see the estimated yearly cost. Your entries stay in your browser and are never saved.
Illustrative estimate only. Calculations run entirely in your browser and are never sent anywhere. Not individualized financial advice.
Want the full checklist?
Banking, credit & transfers — one email.
Compare the Best Money Transfer Services
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See all providers →Want the Complete US Credit Roadmap?
The free guides help you get started. However, the ebook brings the whole credit-building process together in one structured roadmap.