Mortgages for Newcomers

Newcomers to Canada play an increasing role in Canada’s future population growth, creating new market opportunities. CMHC financing is available to borrowers with permanent and non-permanent residence status, helping newcomers to realize their dream of homeownership in Canada. 

Canadian Mortgage & Housing Corporation Program for Newcomers

• Newcomers with permanent resident status have access to all CMHC and Genworth Mortgage Loan Insurance products (subject to product-specific eligibility requirements).
• For permanent residents, where there is limited Canadian credit history and where foreign credit bureaus are not available, CMHC and Genworth continue to consider alternative sources of payment history for Loan-to-Value ratios up to 95%.
• Immigrants with non-permanent resident status have access to CMHC and Genworth insured financing of up to 90% loan-to-value ratio for the purchase of a 1 unit owner-occupied residential property.
• No additional fees or premiums as a result of residency status – standard product specific premiums apply.
• No minimum period of residency required.

Benefits to Newcomers

• Access to Homeownership – Newcomers with permanent residence status can purchase a home with as little as 5% down payment.
• Competitive Interest Rates – Access to CMHC insured financing, and as a result, competitive interest rates from many banks in Canada.
• Availability – Coast-to-coast-to-coast with no set maximum loan amount.

Non-Residence Lending

Non-residence lending is a program for Canadians living abroad and non-Canadian Citizens that wish to purchase a property in Canada. Do note that various lenders have restricted lending areas, and in some cases, certain lenders will not lend under this program.

Program Requirements include:

• Down Payment: 35% is the required minimum down payment from one’s own resource. Down payment must be available in a Canadian Bank account prior to the Mortgage funding. Down payment cannot be in the form of a Gift and proof of funds for 90 days prior to financing is also required.
• Proof of Income: To prove income, a letter of employment from your current employer confirming the length of time at the company, your annual salary including bonuses and confirmation that you are not on probation and your salary, are required. A recent paystub will also be necessary.
• Proof of Credit: If a Canadian Credit bureau is not available to you, then an international credit bureau or letter of reference from the bank you currently deal with should suffice.

Some lenders will require a year’s worth of mortgage payment in a Canadian bank account before they will approve.