If you’ve just arrived in Canada and are looking to rent a home, navigating the process without a local credit history or employment record can be difficult. That’s where SingleKey’s Rent Guarantee Program can help. It offers landlords peace of mind and gives tenants like you a better chance of getting approved—even without a long financial track record in Canada.
Whether you’re employed, currently unemployed, or arriving as a refugee, here’s a breakdown of the documents you’ll need to qualify.
🧾 For Employed Newcomers
If you're working in Canada or transferring from an employer abroad:
Proof of Income
This could be a job offer letter, recent pay stubs, or a transfer letter from your previous employer if you're continuing employment in Canada.Government-Issued ID and Immigration Documents
Acceptable documents include your passport, work permit, or study permit.International Credit Report
If available, this can be used to demonstrate financial reliability when Canadian credit history is not yet established.
🧾 For Unemployed Newcomers
If you’re not currently working but have savings:
Proof of a Canadian Bank Account
This shows your ability to receive and manage funds in Canada.Proof of International Savings
Include bank statements or other documents confirming savings in your home country.Rent-to-Income Ratio Based on Savings
Your monthly rent must not exceed 50% of your total savings (converted to CAD). This ensures financial sustainability.Government-Issued ID and Immigration Documents
Such as your work permit, study permit, or passport.International Credit Report (if available)
🧾 For Refugees
If you’re arriving in Canada as a refugee:
Government-Issued ID and Immigration Documents
This can include a refugee claimant document, work/study permit, or passport.Proof of Income or Savings
Whether from employment or savings in Canada or abroad.Proof of Government or Organizational Support
If applicable, such as government funding or aid from a settlement organization (e.g., common for Ukrainian refugees).
🚀 Bonus: Apply for the Tenant Passport
If you don’t yet meet all the Rent Guarantee criteria or want additional support in securing a lease, you can apply for the Tenant Passport—a powerful tool offered by SingleKey.
What is the Tenant Passport?
It acts like a rental guarantor for tenants. It helps landlords feel more confident about approving your application—even if you're new to the country.
You may qualify if you have:
No bankruptcies or evictions on your credit report in the past three years
At least one employed household member
A Rent-to-Gross Income Ratio under 50%
👉 Join the waitlist here to boost your rental application with the Tenant Passport.