Canadians primarily use Interac e-Transfer, PayPal, and digital wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay for payments. While US-based apps like Venmo and Cash App are not available, alternatives such as Wealthsimple Cash, KOHO, and Wise are commonly used for peer-to-peer transfers, international payments, and mobile transactions.
A closer look at the best money transfer apps in Canada
Unlike Zelle, which only works for domestic bank-to-bank transfers in the US, PayPal lets you send money across borders, making it a go-to option for international payments. One of PayPal's main advantages is that personal transactions within Canada are free when funded by a linked bank account or PayPal balance.
Spoiler alert: Cash App isn't available in Canada. But don't worry – we've got something even better. If you've been hearing your American friends rave about Cash App and wondering why you can't get in on the action, here's the deal: Cash App only works in the US and UK.
Venmo is unavailable in Canada or anywhere else outside the United States of America. But, why is that? The requirements to be on-boarded on Venmo include: The user must be physically located or resident in the USA.
Best ways to send money to the USA from Canada with WISE
The best way to send Canadian dollar to United States dollar is by using money that's in your Wise account. It's cheapest and usually arrives in seconds. Bank transfers are also cheap, but can be slower.
Google Wallet and Google Pay – Google Wallet stores payment cards, IDs, transit passes, and more, while Google Pay allows contactless transactions. PayPal – A widely accepted digital wallet for online shopping, often used in Canada for business and peer-to-peer transactions.
Alternatives to Zelle for Canadian businesses
A: No, Cash App is not available in Canada. The platform only operates in the United States and the United Kingdom. Canadian businesses must use alternatives like Venn, Wise, or other Canadian-built payment platforms.
You can receive EFT credits, also known as direct deposits, or with Interac Autodeposit. Most people making personal transfers in Canada use Interac, so they may not be familiar with sending EFT credits. They may need to reach out to their bank for help.
Bottom line. Zelle isn't an option for international money transfers because both the sender and recipient of a Zelle payment need a US based bank account and mobile phone number.
Yes, PayPal works extensively in Canada for online shopping, sending/receiving money domestically and internationally, and managing finances, supporting CAD and other currencies, allowing users to link bank accounts or cards for transactions, though fees apply for certain international or card-funded payments. It's a widely used platform, even accepted by major Canadian retailers, and serves as a common alternative to other services like Venmo in Canada, note this Wise article.
Apple Pay participating banks in Canada, Latin America, and the United States. Apple Pay works with many of the major credit and debit cards from the top banks. Just add your supported cards and continue to get all the rewards, benefits, and security of your cards. We're working with more banks to support Apple Pay.
Buy Trust Wallet Token in Canada in 5 Easy Steps
Select CAD from the list of currencies if not pre-selected. Choose a payment method and see the equivalent amount of TWT you will receive. Input your Trust Wallet Token-supported wallet address. Login with email and verify your information.
The Real-Time Rail (RTR) will be Canada's new national real-time payment system, facilitating instant A2A payments through the real-time exchange and real-time clearing and settlement of funds.
Send USD to Interac e-Transfer in Canada securely with Remitly. Enjoy great rates, no hidden fees, and fast delivery through your preferred method. Popular currencies are supported, with access to thousands of trusted providers worldwide.
Send money securely to the US
Send money with PayPal in a fast and safe manner to the US from Canada. You will be notified in app when funds have been sent and are on their way to your recipient.
Just like Venmo, Cashapp and Zelle aren't currently available in Canada. Using Apple Pay to send funds isn't available either. Cashapp is available for use in the United States as well as the United Kingdom, and Zelle and Apple Cash are available for use only in the United States.
Unlike Cash App, which primarily operates in the United States, PESA is tailored to the Canadian market and 20+ other countries. This localization extends to customer support, ensuring that users can access assistance tailored to their specific needs and concerns.