How a newcomer couple thrived with trusted support
“Our CIBC advisor gave us advice early on, which helped us build our savings, start investing and envision our goals."
May. 15, 2026
5-minute read
Starting over in a new country wasn’t easy, but we were determined to create opportunities and a brighter future. We moved to Canada in October 2022.
Back home in India, we had established careers. I was a lawyer and Cammy was a dentist, but moving here meant obtaining recertification in Canada — a three or four-year process in Canada for us to rebuild our careers in a new place. Those early months were difficult, as we adjusted to a new culture, had to figure out our finances and braved our first winter.
Banking in Canada was completely new to us. Back home in India, banks just handle deposits and withdrawals. Here, it felt very different — the bank took the time to explain our options, offer advice, and talk to us about credit and long-term planning. That was a big shift for us. We didn’t just need bank accounts, we needed to understand how the entire system worked so we could make smart financial decisions.
Fortunately, we met Ashley, an Associate Financial Advisor at CIBC. From the day we walked into our local banking centre, we felt at ease.
Building a financial foundation
Ashley began with the basics. She helped us open our first bank accounts, obtain credit cards and took the time to help us understand how everything worked. She explained how CIBC could support our long term plans.
Learning about credit was probably one of our biggest adjustments in Canada. Back home, saving was always part of our upbringing. We mostly avoided credit cards. When we first arrived, we didn’t prioritize applying for or using a credit card. That meant building a solid credit rating took longer. We quickly learned that a strong credit score is crucial for securing loans, mortgages and other financial products.
Ashley explained to us why credit matters, how to use credit cards responsibly and how small, consistent actions could help us establish a solid credit record in the long run. She never rushed us or assumed we already knew things. She made us feel comfortable to ask questions.
Over time, we started learning more about investing. Ashley introduced us to options like RRSPs and the First Home Savings Account. She shared details on how to move our money from India to Canada.
Developing a personal connection
Those early conversations weren’t just about finances, though. Ashley made a point of getting to know us first. She wanted to learn about our culture, what mattered to us, our goals and what we were trying to build in this new chapter of our lives.
She followed up regularly and ensured we never felt uncertain or left on our own. When we needed information, she was always easy to reach, whether it was a quick phone call, an email or an in-person meeting. That approach helped us build confidence and feel supported as we settled into life in Canada.
At the same time, we were focused on growing our careers in Canada. When we arrived, we were prepared to do odd jobs, if needed. I found employment outside of my field and Cammy worked at a dental clinic part time. Leaving our careers behind in India was challenging, but we knew it was necessary while we figured out the next steps to build our future.
The process of recertifying my law license in Canada was long and there were times when I wanted to give up. But Cammy encouraged me to keep going. During those tough moments, she helped us stay focused on our long-term goals. I'm happy to say that I now have my license to practice law in Canada.
During that time our family also grew. Our daughter was born here, which has changed the way we think about everything, including our plans for the future.
Especially throughout our first few years in Canada, Ashley has always been there for us. She hasn’t just helped us with banking and investments, her advice and encouragement has always felt personal and focused on what matters most to us.
Cammy and I try to balance enjoying our life in Canada with being disciplined about saving and investing. Our primary goals are to get settled professionally, continue to grow our family and buy a home. Ashley suggests we concentrate on one milestone at a time, so we don’t get overwhelmed.
When we look back at our early years in Canada, it feels good to see how far we’ve come. The journey has had its challenges, but having Ashley and CIBC provide the right guidance at the right time has made all the difference.
Ashley’s advice for newcomers to Canada
Starting over in a new country can feel daunting, especially when the banking system is entirely different than what you’re used to. Ashley encourages newcomers to focus on taking a few key steps early on to build confidence and create a strong financial foundation.
Start with the basics and build your credit history
Opening a chequing account is often the first step in managing your day to day finances in Canada. It allows you to deposit your salary, pay bills easily and access your money. And as a newcomer, applying for and responsibly using a credit card is also one of the most effective ways to start building your credit history.
CIBC offers newcomer banking options, like the CIBC Smart® Account for Newcomers. It has no monthly fee for 2 years. They also offer the CIBC Dividend Platinum Visa. It provides a two-year fee rebate helping you establish credit from day one.
Get financial advice early on
You don’t have to wait until you’re established to meet with a CIBC advisor and create a goal plan. They will explain how the Canadian system works, answer all your questions and help you set realistic goals for your new life. They’ll also help you open savings and investment accounts, like a TFSA, RRSP or First Home Savings Account (FHSA).
With the right guidance and support, newcomers can build confidence, make informed decisions and create a solid financial future in Canada.
Real CIBC clients, compensated for their time
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