As we cross the ocean and change the currency we decided to open an account in canada from ireland to make our life easier.

Two canadian bank offer on their website the possibility to do so for the “new comers in canada” :

• Desjardins: http://www.desjardins.com/en/particuliers/clienteles/nouveaux_arrivants/index.jsp
• HSBC : https://www.hsbc.ca/1/2/en/personal/immigration-canada/new-to-canada/financial-services-new/hsbc-passport

But who choose? Both offers are interesting, Desjardin is really popular in Quebec, and, HSBC worldwide… what to do?

I give a try, I call their customer service for more info!

HSBC :

Me : Good Morning, I’d like to obtain more detail on your HSBC Passeport account.
Consultant: … (long silence) what?
Me: (it starts well) Yes, you know the HSBC Passeport account you describe on your website.
Consultant: … are you on the canadian website?
Me: YES…
Consultant: … (long silence again) Wait a moment, I am inquiring.

In my head I told myself, he is new, or it’s not the right department. I managed to pull some information on general banking and I skip to the next one.

Desjardins :

Without re-doing the conversation, I can tell you that the consultant knows more about the product, and, gives me some details. The most important is that she clearly states that the account cannot be opened before being in Canada. Suddently the offer has less interest, as, we want to save time for this now instead of doing this at our arrival as we’ll have so much to do !

So, only remains the HSBC.

I don’t give up on this first call I decide to dig into the website and found another phone number. I’m now at the HSBC International center with a french speaker consultant who knows the product ! LOL It’s possible to open your account and receive the debit card before beign in canada within 20 working days.

This post is also available in: French