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Canada (CA)

Canada is the world's second-largest country by land area and one of the most immigration-friendly nations on earth.

Capital: Ottawa
Region: Americas
Language: English
Currency: CAD (CA$)
Cost of living: Expensive (index 72)
Emergency: 911
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Currency & Money

Practical money tips for living in Canada.

CA$
Canadian Dollar
CAD

Denominations

Coins: 1¢, 5¢, 10¢, 25¢, $1 (loonie), $2 (toonie). Notes: $5, $10, $20, $50, $100.

Payment Culture

Canada is largely cashless. Debit (Interac) and credit cards are accepted almost everywhere. Contactless (tap) is ubiquitous. Cash is increasingly uncommon but useful in rural areas and farmers markets.

ATM Tips

Use bank ATMs (TD, RBC, Scotiabank, BMO, CIBC) to avoid third-party surcharges of $2–$5. Many convenience stores have independent ATMs with high fees. Interac e-Transfer is the standard for peer-to-peer payments.

Exchange Tips

Avoid airport exchange bureaus. Wise and Remitly offer competitive rates for international transfers. Most major banks offer Global Money Transfer services but at poor exchange rates.

Pro tip: Best apps for expats

  • • Wise — Send money internationally at near-interbank rates
  • • Revolut — Multi-currency account, free ATM withdrawals (limits apply)
  • • N26 — German IBAN, free account, good for EU residents