Thats funny. I was able to open my account without a credit history (with BMO). I also applied for a credit card by putting 125% cash as collateral. They told me that theyd release the collateral after 6 months depending on the activity and performance of payments etc.

Try BMO. I can ask the person I am dealing with if you are in Toronto so you can maybe get a contact that can help you.

Good Luck.

P.S. I do have a minimum 7 day hold for any checks written on my account and a 30 day hold for any US denominated checks which in todays world is a REALLY LONG time for a hold. But it is what it is.