How to Get a Mortgage in Canada as a Foreigner
Canada offers a robust range of property financing options for foreign buyers, making it a top choice for real estate investments. Typically, loan-to-value (LTV

Canada offers a range of financing options for real estate investors, with competitive interest rates and flexible loan-to-value ratios. Major banks like RBC, TD, and Scotiabank provide specialized services for foreign buyers and diverse property types. Investors can choose from various mortgage types, including fixed, variable, open, and closed mortgages, each catering to different financial strategies and risk appetites. The Canadian market is characterized by a stable economic environment and a transparent legal framework, making it an attractive destination for real estate investment.
Foreign buyers in Canada typically need a larger deposit compared to residents. Most banks require 25-40% down payment for non-resident mortgages. Plan your financing accordingly.
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Inflation Rate
2.0%
Interest Rate
4.25%
• High quality of life index (150/200) attracts international residents and supports long-term value.
Foreign buyers, vacation properties
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Residential properties, new immigrants
Investment properties, condos
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Commercial properties, high-net-worth individuals
First-time buyers, urban properties
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Tip 1: Focus on high-demand urban areas for better rental yields.
Tip 2: Consider properties near public transportation for higher appreciation.
Tip 3: Diversify investments across different cities to mitigate risks.
Tip 4: Stay updated on local market trends and economic indicators.
Tip 5: Work with a local real estate agent for expert insights.
Tip 6: Evaluate properties based on long-term growth potential.
Tip 7: Consider energy-efficient homes for future-proofing investments.
Tip 8: Assess the impact of property taxes on overall returns.
Tip 9: Explore government incentives for first-time buyers.
Tip 10: Be cautious of over-leveraging to avoid financial strain.
Tip 11: Conduct thorough due diligence on property titles.
Tip 12: Consider the impact of currency fluctuations if investing from abroad.
| City | Price/m² | Rental Yield | Price Growth | Popular Areas |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toronto | CAD 10,000 | 3.5% | +6.0% YoY | Downtown, North York, Scarborough |
| Vancouver | CAD 12,500 | 3.2% | +5.5% YoY | West End, Kitsilano, Burnaby |
| Montreal | CAD 7,500 | 4.0% | +4.8% YoY | Plateau Mont-Royal, Old Montreal, Griffintown |
| Calgary | CAD 6,000 | 4.5% | +3.5% YoY | Beltline, Kensington, Bridgeland |
| Ottawa | CAD 5,500 | 4.7% | +4.0% YoY | Centretown, The Glebe, Westboro |
Local banks in Canada are open to working with foreign buyers, though they often require more stringent documentation compared to domestic borrowers. Foreign buyers can expect interest rates that are competitive, typically aligned with the prime rate, plus an additional margin. Loan terms can range from 25 to 30 years. Essential documentation includes a valid passport, proof of income, bank statements, and credit history. Some lenders may also require a Canadian bank account and a minimum down payment of 35% to 50% of the property's value, reflecting a lower LTV ratio compared to domestic buyers.
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Interest rate fluctuates with market conditions
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Allows for early repayment without penalties
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Fixed repayment schedule with penalties for early repayment
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Start gathering your documentation 2-3 months before applying. Non-resident mortgage applications typically require notarized translations and apostille stamps for foreign documents, which can take several weeks to process.
Use our interactive mortgage calculator to estimate your monthly payments for a property in Canada.
Financing Tip
Your down payment of 20% or more typically qualifies you for the best available rates.
Property developers in Canada often offer attractive financing options directly to buyers, which can be an appealing alternative for foreign investors. These payment plans typically involve an initial reservation fee, followed by a series of staged payments leading up to completion. A common structure might include a 5% deposit upon signing the agreement, another 5% after 30-60 days, and subsequent payments at various construction milestones. This approach allows buyers to manage cash flow more effectively while securing their desired property without immediate full payment.
Always verify the developer's credentials, track record, and financial stability before committing. Request to see building permits, completion guarantees, and consider using escrow accounts for staged payments.