Best Auto Insurance Options For Newcomers In Canada | September 2025

Best Auto Insurance Options for Newcomers in Canada | September 2025

As a newcomer to Canada, securing proper auto insurance is a crucial step in establishing your new life. While managing settling-in expenses can be challenging, understanding the Canadian auto insurance landscape is essential for protecting yourself and complying with legal requirements. This guide will help you navigate the available options and make an informed decision.

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Summary Table for Best Auto Insurance Options for Newcomers in Canada | September 2025

What Newcomers Need to Know

• Canadian auto insurance is mandatory in all provinces and territories
• Insurance rates are typically higher for newcomers without Canadian driving history
• Most insurers require proof of driving experience from your home country
• Provincial regulations vary, with some provinces having public insurance systems
• You'll need a valid Canadian or international driver's license
• Many insurers offer specific newcomer packages with gradual premium reductions
• Bundle options with home insurance can provide additional savings

Our Top Recommendations

• Intact Insurance leads with comprehensive newcomer packages and recognition of international driving experience
• Aviva Canada offers competitive rates and accident forgiveness specifically for new residents
• Desjardins Insurance provides excellent coverage in Quebec and Ontario with newcomer-friendly policies
• The Co-operators stands out for personalized service and flexible payment options
• TD Insurance offers valuable bundling discounts for newcomers establishing multiple services

1. Intact Insurance

Category: Insurance Program

Intact Insurance is Canada's most trusted insurance provider, serving over four million consumers. For newcomers to Canada, they offer comprehensive insurance solutions for cars, homes, and businesses with potential savings of up to 25% on personalized coverage.

What newcomers need to know:

• Available for personal, auto, home, and business insurance coverage
• 24/7 claims support available at 1-866-464-2424
• Must work with an insurance broker to get coverage
• Competitive rates, especially for drivers under 25
• Originally established as part of ING Group, now a major Canadian insurer

Benefits for newcomers:

• Save up to 25% with personalized insurance quotes
• Access to Canada's most trusted insurance provider
• 24/7 claims support services
• Company-specific discounts available (up to 20% savings noted)
• Diverse and supportive service environment

How to apply:

• Visit official website to learn more

2. Aviva Canada

Category: Insurance Program

Aviva Canada is one of Canada's leading property and casualty insurance companies, providing essential coverage to more than three million customers. For newcomers to Canada, Aviva offers comprehensive insurance solutions including home, auto, and personal coverage that can help provide peace of mind during their settlement process.

What newcomers need to know:

• Full-service insurance provider offering home, auto, personal, and business coverage
• 24/7 claims service available via phone at 1-866-692-8482
• Online claims submission available through their website
• Main office located at 10 Aviva Way, Suite 100 Markham, ON L6G 0G1
• Multiple branch offices across Canada for in-person service

Benefits for newcomers:

• Comprehensive property and casualty insurance coverage
• Online quote comparison tools for different insurance products
• Award-winning insurance services (voted in 2021)
• Multiple insurance products under one provider
• Access to online and phone support for questions and claims

How to apply:

• Visit official website to learn more

3. Desjardins Insurance

Category: Insurance Program

Desjardins Insurance is a comprehensive insurance provider and part of one of Canada's largest financial institutions, offering a wide range of insurance products specifically designed for different lifestyles and needs. As a high-ranking insurer with proven financial stability, they provide essential coverage options that can help newcomers protect themselves and their assets in their new life in Canada.

What newcomers need to know:

• Multiple insurance products available including life, health, auto, and visitors to Canada insurance
• Online services accessible via tablet, laptop, or mobile app for convenient management
• Claims support available through multiple channels (phone: 1-888-776-8343)
• Two main subsidiaries: Desjardins Financial Security and Desjardins General Insurance
• Specific coverage options for different types of drivers and lifestyles

Benefits for newcomers:

• Comprehensive visitors to Canada insurance options
• Personal health and disability insurance coverage
• Online quote system for immediate pricing
• Mobile app for easy insurance management
• Multiple discount options available for auto insurance

How to apply:

• Visit official website to learn more

4. The Co-operators

Category: Financial Services and Insurance Program

The Co-operators is one of Canada's leading multi-line insurance providers and financial services cooperatives, offering comprehensive coverage for newcomers' insurance and investment needs. As a Canadian-owned organization with over 70 years of experience, they provide essential financial protection and services that can help immigrants establish security in their new country.

What newcomers need to know:

• Provides multiple insurance types including home, auto, life, business, and travel insurance
• Offers comprehensive financial services including investments and retirement planning
• Available across Canada with local financial advisors
• Customer service available Monday to Friday (8 am to 8 pm) and Saturday (9 am to 5 pm)
• Multi-line insurance options can be bundled for better coverage

Benefits for newcomers:

• Access to comprehensive insurance solutions under one provider
• Professional financial advice and planning services
• Group coverage and benefits available
• Local advisor support for personalized service
• Multi-line insurance and wealth products for complete financial protection

How to apply:

• Visit official website to learn more

5. Economical Insurance

Category: Insurance Program

Economical Insurance is one of Canada's leading property and casualty insurance companies, serving Canadians since 1871. For newcomers to Canada, it offers comprehensive insurance coverage across multiple categories, including auto, home, and business insurance, making it a reliable one-stop solution for essential insurance needs.

What newcomers need to know:

• One of Canada's longest-standing insurance providers, operating since 1871
• Headquarters located in Waterloo, Ontario, with regional offices across Canada
• Offers multiple insurance types: auto, home, commercial, farm and surety products
• Serves more than one million Canadians nationwide
• Works across different tiers, including standard and higher-risk clients

Benefits for newcomers:

• Access to comprehensive property and casualty insurance coverage
• Named P&C Insurer of the Year, demonstrating service excellence
• Strong focus on customer service and community engagement
• Multiple insurance products available through one provider
• Nationwide coverage with regional office support

How to apply:

• Visit official website to learn more

6. TD Insurance

Category: Insurance Program

TD Insurance offers comprehensive coverage solutions for newcomers to Canada, providing essential protection for their cars, homes, and families as they establish their new life. Their mobile-friendly services and 24/7 access make it especially convenient for immigrants managing their insurance needs.

What newcomers need to know:

• Coverage available for multiple insurance types including auto, home, travel, life, and business
• 24/7 access to policy information through MyInsurance online portal
• Mobile app available for both Android and Google Play users
• Customer service available at 1-866-361-2311 for general insurance inquiries
• Self-serve features to manage policies and download important documents

Benefits for newcomers:

• Customized coverage suited to individual needs and lifestyle
• Digital access to policy management through mobile app and online portal
• Ability to view and download proof of car insurance instantly
• Easy management of payment and contact information
• Convenient self-service features for policy management

How to apply:

• Visit official website to learn more

7. RBC Insurance

Category: Insurance Program

RBC Insurance provides comprehensive insurance solutions essential for newcomers establishing their life in Canada. As one of Canada's leading insurance providers, they offer a wide range of protection options that help immigrants safeguard their families, homes, and investments as they settle into their new country.

What newcomers need to know:

• Multiple insurance types available including car, home, life, health, and travel insurance
• Online enrollment available for personal insurance and group benefits
• Direct contact available through 1-800-769-2568 for personal information discussions
• Specific services for RBC clients with additional protection options
• Secure communication methods required for sharing personal information

Benefits for newcomers:

• Comprehensive coverage options combining personal and family protection
• Access to retirement investment solutions
• Integration with RBC banking services for existing clients
• Online access to manage insurance policies and claims
• Dedicated customer support for insurance-related inquiries

How to apply:

• Visit official website to learn more

8. BCAA (British Columbia Automobile Association)

Category: Insurance & Automotive Services Program

BCAA is a membership-based organization serving over 1 in 3 BC households, providing essential services for those settling in British Columbia. For newcomers establishing their life in BC, BCAA offers comprehensive coverage and peace-of-mind through various insurance products and automotive services.

What newcomers need to know:

• Membership is with the person, not tied to a specific vehicle
• Part of both Canadian (CAA) and American (AAA) Automobile Associations
• Available across British Columbia and the Yukon
• Services are available through multiple Auto Service Centres across the province
• Membership provides access to multiple insurance and automotive services

Benefits for newcomers:

• Comprehensive roadside assistance anywhere in the world
• Access to car, home, travel, and small business insurance
• Full auto repair services at BCAA Auto Service Centres
• Access to Evo Car Share program
• Member benefits through CAA Rewards program

How to apply:

• Visit official website to learn more

9. Wawanesa Insurance

Category: Insurance Program

As one of Canada's largest mutual insurers, Wawanesa Insurance provides essential coverage for auto, home, farm, and commercial insurance to over two million Canadians. For newcomers to Canada, having a trusted insurance provider with over 125 years of experience and a nationwide broker network can help ensure protection and peace of mind as they establish their new life.

What newcomers need to know:

• Company is mutually owned by its policyholders, meaning clients have a stake in the company
• Over $10.5 billion in assets and 2 million policies in force
• Services available through 1,900+ broker partners across Canada
• Founded in 1896 and headquartered in Winnipeg, Manitoba
• Ranked among top 10 largest property insurers in Canada

Benefits for newcomers:

• Comprehensive coverage options for auto, home, farm, and commercial insurance
• Access to nationwide network of independent insurance brokers
• Competitive pricing and responsive customer support
• Multiple insurance products can be bundled
• Practical online services including payment and claims submission

How to apply:

• Visit official website to learn more

10. Allstate Insurance Canada

Category: Insurance Program

Allstate Insurance Canada is one of the leading producers and distributors of home and auto insurance in Canada, operating across five provinces - Alberta, Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. For newcomers to Canada, Allstate offers comprehensive insurance coverage options with potential savings through bundling services.

What newcomers need to know:

• Available in five provinces: Alberta, Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia
• 24/7 claims service available at 1-800-ALLSTATE (1-800-255-7828)
• Offers both home and auto insurance coverage options
• Network of agents available who speak multiple languages
• Requires understanding of policy coverage and terms to avoid claim issues

Benefits for newcomers:

• Potential savings of up to $960 when bundling home and auto insurance
• Comprehensive coverage options for both auto and home insurance
• Access to trusted insurance coverage through an established provider
• Multilingual agent support for diverse communities
• 24/7 claims support accessibility

How to apply:

• Visit official website to learn more

Final Words

Securing the right auto insurance as a newcomer to Canada doesn't have to be overwhelming. Start by gathering your previous driving records and license documentation from your home country, as these can significantly impact your premiums. Many insurers now offer digital quotes and application processes, making it easier to compare options and find the best coverage for your specific situation. Remember to review your policy annually as your Canadian driving history builds, as you may qualify for better rates and additional discounts over time.

What are the best auto insurance companies for newcomers in Canada?

The top-rated insurance providers for newcomers are Intact Insurance, Aviva Canada, and Desjardins Insurance, offering specialized newcomer packages with flexible payment options and multi-vehicle discounts.

How do I get car insurance in Canada as a new immigrant?

New immigrants can obtain car insurance by providing their driver's license (international or Canadian), proof of address, and previous insurance history to companies like The Co-operators or Economical Insurance who offer newcomer-specific policies.

Which car insurance company gives the best rates for new immigrants to Canada?

Intact Insurance and Aviva Canada typically offer the most competitive rates for newcomers, with special programs that recognize international driving experience and provide additional discounts for bundling policies.