Bank Accounts

How to Open an Account

Opening an RBC Royal Bank banking account is easy. You can visit any RBC Royal Bank branch that is convenient to you and an RBC Royal Bank representative will guide you through the process. Or, if you prefer, you can get started right now and open your account online.

When you click through to the Open an Account page, you’ll be asked to select the type of account you wish to open, and then answer a few simple questions.

Within two business days, we will mail you a Welcome Package that has everything you need to complete the process.

Just follow the directions in the Welcome Kit, and return the required information to us, along with the required identification. We will then activate your account, so that you can deposit funds. If you prefer, you can complete this stage at your RBC Royal Bank branch.

To receive your RBC Client Card, which will allow you to make withdrawals and transfer funds, you will need to visit an RBC Royal Bank branch in person. This also gives you an opportunity to ask any questions you may have and benefit from advice about planning for your future.

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What Identification do You Need to Open an Account?

To open a Canadian dollar account with RBC Royal Bank, you must show two pieces of identification — one from List A and and second one from List A or List B.

List A

• Permanent Resident Card or Citizenship and Immigration Form IMM1000, IMM1442 or IMM5292
• Canadian or foreign passport
• Canadian or U.S. driver’s licence
• Canadian Social Insurance Number card
• Certificate of Canadian Citizenship or Certificate of Naturalization in the form of a paper document or card (but not a commemorative issue)
• Canadian or U.S. birth certificate
• Canadian Old Age Security card
• Provincial Health Insurance card for any province except Ontario, Manitoba or P.E.I.

List B

• Employee photo identity card
• Canadian credit card
• Canadian university or college photo student card
• Senior Citizen Privilege card
• Confirmation of identity by a client in good standing with RBC Financial Group or by an individual of good standing in the community where the bank is situated, in the opinion of RBC
• Introduction letter, with signature, from previous bank.

If you do not have any of the documents listed above, you may still be able to open an account. Please call 1-800-ROYAL 1-1 (1-800-769-2511) for assistance.

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Make Sure Your Identification is Valid

To open your account, you need valid identification. Here are some guidelines:

• The date on each document must be current. We cannot accept documents that have expired or that have been cancelled.
• The documents must be original. There should be no markings on the identification or any sign that the documents have been altered.
• Your name must be the same on all pieces. If the names don’t match, you will also need to bring with you a certificate (either the original or a certified copy) showing the name change.
• Photo identification is not mandatory, but is preferred.

U.S. dollar accounts have different ID requirements and must be opened at an RBC Royal Bank branch in person.

	Learn more about our RBC Welcome to Canada package that has been tailored to meet the needs of newcomers to Canada.
	Select and apply to other RBC accounts and services.

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