Cost of Living in Canada
Planning your move to Canada? Here is everything you need to know about cost of living for digital nomads and expats in 2026.
The Canadian banking sector is an incredibly stable oligopoly (The "Big Five"), but it lacks innovation and charges high fees.
- The SIN: The Social Insurance Number is required to work or access government services. You cannot get one on a tourist/visitor visa.
- Interac e-Transfer: The Canadian equivalent of Venmo/Zelle. It is integrated into every bank app and is used to pay for everything from splitting a dinner bill to paying your landlord.
- Opening an Account: While tourists can technically open a bank account (e.g., at RBC or TD), branch managers often refuse unless you have a work or study permit.
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