Landed Canada
CreditReviewed by Landed Canada Editorial Team · Updated May 2026

KOHO Card for Newcomers in Canada 2026 — No Credit Check Required

No credit check. Start building credit immediately. Best first card for newcomers.

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KOHO is a fintech prepaid Mastercard that does not require a credit check or Canadian credit history — making it the most accessible first financial product for newcomers. KOHO's credit building subscription ($7/month) reports on-time payment history to Equifax and TransUnion, helping you build a Canadian credit score from day one. KOHO also offers up to 4% savings interest on cash balances, 1% cash back on purchases, and instant notifications. For newcomers, KOHO is often recommended as a supplement to a Big Six bank account — use the Big Six for salary deposits and bills, use KOHO for credit building. After 6–12 months of consistent KOHO payments, many newcomers have a score of 650+, enough to apply for an unsecured credit card.

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Frequently asked questions

Does KOHO require a credit check for newcomers?
No. KOHO does not require a credit check or Canadian credit history, making it one of the most accessible first financial products for newcomers.
How much does KOHO's credit-building feature cost and how long until it helps?
KOHO's credit building subscription costs $7/month and reports on-time payment history to Equifax and TransUnion. After 6–12 months of consistent payments, many newcomers reach a credit score of 650+, enough to apply for an unsecured credit card.

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See how this program compares to all other newcomer banking programs:

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