Using your debit card in Canada: a complete cash, card, and ATM guide for your trip (2024)

If you're planning to travel to Canada, you might wonder if you have to carry Canadian dollars (CAD), or if you can use your debit card while sightseeing and shopping abroad. Holidays should be relaxing, not stressful — and preparing in advance will help you avoid any unpleasant surprises in Canada.Read on to find out if you can use your debit card while in Canada, which ATMs are available to tourists, if you risk being charged extra fees, and much more.

Using your debit card in Canada: a complete cash, card, and ATM guide for your trip (1)

Can I use my debit card in Canada?

Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, using a debit card in foreign countries like Canada can come in handy‌ — not only for convenience but also as an extra measure in case you run out of Canadian dollars. Generally speaking, many establishments in Canada accept debit cards, especially cards affiliated with major international payment networks like Visa or Mastercard.

Are debit cards widely accepted in Canada?

Debit cards have become increasingly popular and widely accepted in Canada, especially in urban areas and tourist destinations. Many establishments, including restaurants, hotels, and retail stores, have card payment terminals that accept debit cards from major international networks like Visa and Mastercard.While major cities and tourist areas in Canada typically accept debit cards, some smaller shops, local vendors, or remote locations may only accept cash. Carrying some Canadian dollars for these situations is always a good idea.

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Tips for using your debit card in Canada

Follow our tips for a smooth and secure experience when using your debit card in Canada:

  1. Before traveling to Canada, notify your bank about your travel plans. This prevents your card from being flagged for suspicious activity, and you can access your funds without any fuss.
  2. Always carry some Canadian dollars for small purchases, street vendors, or establishments that only accept cash.
  3. When using your debit card or ATMs in Canada, always opt to be charged in Canadian dollars to avoid higher exchange fees. The exchange rate offered by your bank will usually be a better deal than the rate at the ATM or card terminal, so it’s smart to pay in local currency.
  4. Keep your debit card secure, and always cover the keypad when entering your PIN.
  5. Use ATMs in well-lit and secure areas, such as banks or shopping malls. Withdraw larger amounts less frequently, and try to choose ATMs with lower withdrawal fees.
  6. Always check your transaction receipts and monitor your account activity regularly. Report any unauthorized transactions to your bank immediately.

Using ATMs in Canada

Most ATMs in Canada are equipped to accept international debit cards. These ATMs typically display logos of international card networks like Visa and Mastercard. When inserting your card, the ATM usually prompts you to choose your preferred language and transaction type. The withdrawal limits at Canadian ATMs vary between CAD $200 to $1,000 per day.Several banks in Canada are known for being more accommodating to international cardholders, including Royal Bank of Canada (RBC), Scotiabank, Toronto-Dominion Bank (TD Bank), Bank of Montreal, and Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC). Besides the ATMs in bank branches and lobbies, you can find ATMs in grocery stores, gas stations, and shopping malls.

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Say goodbye to exchange rate markups

N26 never marks up foregin exchange rates. This means we pass along the real exchange rates provided by Mastercard to you—no hidden fees or confusing small print to ruin your holiday.

Foreign transaction fees to look out

Using your debit card in Canada: a complete cash, card, and ATM guide for your trip (4)

Using your debit card in Canada: a complete cash, card, and ATM guide for your trip (5)

Paying with your N26 card when traveling

N26 doesn’t hide fees or add a foreign exchange rate. We also don’t tack on extra charges for rare currencies or for paying on the weekend. Spend abroad and benefit from Mastercard's real exchange rate.

Using your debit card in Canada: a complete cash, card, and ATM guide for your trip (6)

Withdrawing money abroad is free with N26 You. Anywhere.

N26 You gives you free withdrawals in currencies around the globe, saving you up to 7% on fees. That means N26 You pays for itself in just a few trips.

FAQs

  • Which debit card networks are accepted in Canada?

  • Is it safe to use your debit card in Canada?

  • Can I use my debit card to withdraw cash in Canada?

  • Are there any fees for using my debit card in Canada?

  • Is it safe to use ATMs in Canada?

  • What should I do if my debit card is lost or stolen in Canada?

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Using your debit card in Canada: a complete cash, card, and ATM guide for your trip (2024)
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