Can I keep my credit card active after I leave?

When leaving Canada for an extended period or permanently, many immigrants and expats wonder whether they should keep their Canadian credit card active. For many, it is an important payment tool and part of their credit history, but it can also create risks and additional costs. In this article, we will look at all aspects, from maintaining your credit rating in Canada to possible fees and security, and we will advise you on how to properly maintain or close your card before you leave.

Advantages of keeping your credit card

By leaving your card open after you leave, you keep your credit limit and maintain your credit history in Canada. This can be useful in several cases:

  • Credit score. An active card with regular payments helps maintain your rating with Canadian credit bureaus, which will be useful when you return or apply for credit in Canada in the future.
  • Access to credit. You will be able to make online purchases on Canadian websites and pay for subscriptions and services (such as Netflix Canada) that do not always accept international cards.
  • Financial flexibility. For unexpected trips to Canada or short business trips, you won't have to open a new card or go through another credit check.
  • Rewards accumulation. If your card has a bonus program or cashback, you'll continue to earn points or cash back without having to re-register your card.

Possible risks and disadvantages

However, you should exercise caution when leaving your card active after emigrating, as there are several drawbacks:

  • Conversion and service fees. Most cards charge 2–3% for foreign currency transactions. Using your card in your new country of residence may incur additional transaction fees.

  • Annual fees. If your card has an annual fee, it will be charged automatically and will increase your debt even if you do not use the card.

  • Security and fraud. Sensitive data is at risk of espionage or unauthorized debits. You rarely check your statements, and fraudulent transactions may take time to be detected.

  • No mobile push notifications. Your Canadian bank may not send notifications to your new region, and you may not be able to respond to debt obligations or unusual transactions in a timely manner.

Terms and conditions of banking institutions

Each bank has its own rules for non-residents with open accounts. At most major institutions (RBC, TD, Scotiabank, BMO, CIBC), after a prolonged period of non-resident status (e.g., more than 1 year without active use), your card may be transferred to “inactive” or “dormant” status, blocked, or offered for closure. Before leaving, you should review your credit agreement and terms of service.

How to safely keep your card open

If you decide to keep your card active, we recommend:

  1. Set up minimum usage. Periodic small transactions (such as a streaming service subscription) will ensure that your card is not blocked due to inactivity.

  2. Enable online banking. Make sure you have access to your bank's mobile app and email to receive statements and transaction alerts.

  3. Set up automatic payments. Set up a minimum automatic payment linked to a Canadian or international account to avoid late payments.

  4. Cancel unnecessary services. Before you leave, choose a plan with no annual fees or a reduced payment plan, if available. Banks sometimes allow you to change your card type to a free version online.

  5. Check your statements. Log in to your account every month and review your transactions. If your bank supports SMS notifications in other countries or email alerts, enable them.

Alternatives to keeping your card

If the risks outweigh the benefits, you may want to consider alternatives:

  • Close your card and open a new one abroad. In your new country of residence, choose a card with favorable conversion rates and no annual fees.

  • Maintain your credit rating through a local bank and expat service. Some international banks (e.g., HSBC, Scotiabank International) offer programs for expats where your Canadian account is automatically transferred to an international service.

  • Use of fintech platforms. Revolut, Wise, N26, and other services allow you to maintain multi-currency accounts with low fees and often support credit services for expats in cooperation with global banks.

Conclusion

It is possible to keep your Canadian credit card active after leaving the country, but the decision should be based on a balance between the benefits and risks. Maintaining your credit history and access to credit in Canada are definite advantages, while high fees, fraud risks, and bank terms and conditions can be significant disadvantages. Carefully review your bank's terms and conditions, set up automatic payments and notifications, or choose alternative financial instruments in your new country of residence. This will allow you to maintain financial control and comfort while living abroad.