8 Best Crypto Exchanges in Canada for 2025

Finding the best crypto exchanges in Canada is crucial, especially with over 10% of Canadians now owning cryptocurrency. But how do you know which platform to trust?

We analyzed security, fees, asset range, and unique features to identify the top choices for Canadian investors.

Our list highlights the top exchanges designed for those seeking specialized features like low fees or advanced tools. Explore our guide to find a platform that meets your needs and sets you up for success in the cryptocurrency space.

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An in-depth look at the best crypto exchanges in Canada

Below is a detailed list of the best crypto exchanges for Canadians to consider in 2025.

1. NDAX: Best for security-conscious Canadians with robust compliance and insurance

NDAX impressed us with its combination of factors catering to the Canadian crypto market. It has been approved as an Investment Dealer, ATS operator, and (Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization) CIRO Member.

It also offers insolvency protection under the Canadian Investor Protection Fund (CIPF).

NDAX combines simplicity, security, and innovation to create a seamless cryptocurrency trading experience. With an intuitive interface, one-click trading allows you to execute buy and sell orders instantly, while advanced order types such as limit, stop, and trailing stop orders optimize your trades.

For high-net-worth individuals, NDAX offers personalized over-the-counter (OTC) trading services with deep liquidity pools and secure, high-volume trades.

NDAX overview

It’s not hard to see why NDAX is considered one of Canada’s most favored crypto exchange platforms.

The platform provides robust security measures, including cold and hot wallet storage, multi-signature authorization, and MPC technology, ensuring your assets and information are safe. Additionally, NDAX simplifies portfolio management with Auto Invest, enabling dollar-cost averaging and scheduled purchases for effortless diversification.

Unlock up to 13% APY through NDAX’s staking platform on top cryptocurrencies like Ethereum and Cardano, earning reliable passive income. Enjoy transparent fees, including a 0.2% trading fee, free deposits, and competitive withdrawal fees, with support for multichain transactions to lower costs.

NDAX also caters to businesses with treasury services, institutional solutions, and liquidity support. Features such as an address book for managing transactions, tax software integration, and an affiliate program offering bonuses and commissions further enhance the platform’s appeal.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced trader, NDAX’s regulatory compliance and customer-focused tools ensure a secure and efficient trading environment, making it a top choice in the Canadian crypto market.

Cryptocurrencies	40+
Funding methods	Interac e-Transfer, EFT, and wire transfers.
Trading fees	0.2% (Trading fees)
Customer service	Email, phone, and live chat.
Regulation	FINTRAC and Revenue Québec
KYC required	Yes

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2. Coinbase: Best for beginners due to its user-friendly interface and wide coin selection

Coinbase Canada is a leading cryptocurrency exchange platform operating in the Canadian market. Its subsidiary has gained prominence as part of the global cryptocurrency giant’s expansion efforts.

Coinbase Canada excels at bridging the gap between traditional finance and the cryptocurrency world.

Its seamless fiat-to-crypto conversion process makes it accessible to many users, from those looking to invest a small amount to more substantial investors. This ease of entry is a key factor in its popularity.

Coinbase overview

Coinbase Canada is a cornerstone in the Canadian cryptocurrency landscape, designed for newcomers and seasoned traders. With over 200 assets in its listings, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and popular altcoins, it combines simplicity with advanced functionality.

The platform offers lower, volume-based pricing through Advanced Trade, accommodating diverse trading strategies with Market, Limit, Stop Limit, and Auction Mode orders. Powerful tools, including charts powered by TradingView with EMA, MA, MACD, RSI, and Bollinger Bands, make it a compelling choice for technical analysis.

Coinbase Canada simplifies account management by unifying balances, allowing seamless switching between Simple and Advanced Trade modes. Built specifically for Canadian users, it supports easy cash top-ups via fee-free Interac e-Transfer and instant withdrawals to most banks.

The onboarding process is straightforward and secure, ensuring users can start trading without hassle. Whether you’re just starting or are a seasoned trader, Coinbase Canada has a tailored experience for every need.

Coinbase Canada’s regulatory standing as a Restricted Dealer since April 2024 underscores its commitment to security and compliance, making it the largest registered cryptocurrency exchange in the country. Though fees may be higher than some competitors, the ease of use, advanced trading tools, and robust features make it a top choice for Canadians venturing into cryptocurrency.

Cryptocurrencies	200+
Funding methods	Bank transfer, Debit card (No Credit Card or PayPal)
Trading fees	Maker: 0% and 0.40%, Taker: 0.05% – 0.60%
Customer service	Primarily online resources and email support
Regulations	FINTRAC
KYC required	Yes

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3. Kraken: Best for advanced traders seeking deep liquidity and trading tools

Kraken is a top pick for advanced traders due to its robust trading platform, deep liquidity, and wide range of cryptocurrencies.

It is a seasoned cryptocurrency exchange with a strong foothold in Canada. Renowned for its robust trading platform and deep liquidity, it caters to novice and experienced traders. Offering a wide array of cryptocurrencies and advanced trading tools, Kraken prioritizes security and regulatory compliance.

Kraken overview

Kraken, a veteran in the cryptocurrency exchange scene, has established a powerful presence in Canada.

Renowned for its innovative listings, robust trading platform, and deep liquidity pools, Kraken is a haven for seasoned traders who can leverage advanced features for in-depth market analysis and strategic execution.

In November 2024, Kraken revealed that it holds over $2.0 CAD under custody (assets and cash).

From charting tools that unveil hidden trends and identify potential entry and exit points to technical indicators that forecast future price movements and gauge market sentiment, Kraken empowers traders to make informed decisions and confidently navigate market volatility.

This extensive toolkit doesn’t stop there. Order types catering to various trading strategies, margin trading for experienced users seeking to amplify returns (with limitations for Canadian residents), and real-time market data keep traders at the forefront of the ever-evolving crypto landscape.

However, it’s important to acknowledge that the platform’s interface, geared towards advanced users, might be daunting for beginners who are just starting their crypto journey.

Cryptocurrencies	175+
Funding methods	Payment options: credit/debit card, wire transfer, e-Transfer, or Canada Post.
Trading fees	Kraken Pro: Maker fees start as low as 025%, taker fees start at 0.40%. Instant Buy: 0.9% for stablecoins, 1.5% other cryptos
Customer service	24/7 Support via Email and Live Chat.
Regulations	FINTRAC (Registered)
KYC required	Yes

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4. Bull Bitcoin: Best exchange for buying and selling Bitcoin in Canada

Founded in 2015, Bull Bitcoin is a reputable Bitcoin exchange in Canada. If you are only interested in Bitcoin and no other cryptocurrencies, Bull Bitcoin is your top choice.

The exchange is registered with FINTRAC ( #M16730720). You can buy Bitcoin in three different ways: Traditional Bitcoin, traditional Bitcoin on the Lightning Network (BTC L2 chain), and Liquid Bitcoin (L-BTC).

You must have a Bitcoin wallet. The website guides you on creating your own wallet, along with customer support, to answer any questions you may have. Choosing the right wallet is important. If you choose to buy BTC on the Lightning Network, the wallet must support it.

If, despite the online guide, it is too complex for you, packages are offered that include phone support for setting up the wallet, including an option to buy a hardware wallet.

To buy Bitcoin, the funding methods are:

E-mail money transfer: Up to $3,000 CAD per day (some banks may allow more).

Bank transfer: Best method for sending over $10,000 CAD.

Inbound bill payment: Bill payment from your banking app by adding Bull Bitcoin as a biller.

Cash or debit via Canada Post: From any Canadian Post office, scan the QR code in ‘fund your account, Cash or Debit at Canada Post.’

Some individuals find it more flexible to buy Bitcoin with cash. If you wish to sell Bitcoin, the withdrawal can be made via email money transfer, standard biller, credit card, bank account, gift cards (Amazon, Apple, DoorDash, and others), or added to your Bull Bitcoin account balance.

Cryptocurrencies	1 = Bitcoin
Funding methods	Email money transfers, bank wire, bill payments, cash or debit via Canada Post
Fees	Yes (you will have limited options if you only verify your phone number and address without your ID).
Customer service	Email (phone support is available for certain packages)
Regulation	Registered with FINTRAC
KYC required	Yes (you will have limited options if you only verify your phone number and address).

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5. Bitbuy: Best for Canadian users with fast deposits, withdrawals, and strong security

Bitbuy is the top pick for Canadian crypto newcomers due to its user-friendly platform, strong security, and seamless integration with Canadian banking.

Bitbuy is a leading Canadian cryptocurrency exchange platform renowned for its user-friendly interface, robust security measures, and focus on Canadian investors.

Since its launch in 2016, it has grown significantly, becoming Canada’s first approved cryptocurrency marketplace in November 2021 and amassing over 375,000 users and $4.4 billion in transaction volume.

Bitbuy overview

Bitbuy stands out as a reliable and accessible crypto exchange tailored for Canadians. Its clean interface and straightforward navigation make newcomers to digital currencies easy.

Bitbuy has established itself as a reliable and trusted cryptocurrency exchange in Canada, making it a solid platform for Canadian investors looking to enter the crypto market.

The platform is committed to user experience, as evident in its recent improvements. For instance, they added a real-time news feed to keep users informed, a “top gainers and dippers” feature to help identify trading opportunities, and implemented various performance enhancements for a smoother overall experience.

However, if you require a wider selection of cryptocurrencies or advanced trading features, you might consider exploring other options.

Cryptocurrencies	50+
Funding methods	Interac e-Transfer, Wire transfer (CAD only)
Trading fees	Express Trade: 0.5% – 2% spread Pro Trade: Lower spreads (variable)
Customer service	Email, Live chat (limited hours)
Regulation	Registered with FINTRAC
KYC required	Yes

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6. VirgoCX: Best for OTC trading and institutional clients

Launched in 2018, VirgoCX has become a standout platform in Canada’s cryptocurrency market. It supports over 90 cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and various altcoins, making it suitable for beginners and seasoned traders.

With focuses on user experience, VirgoCX offers intuitive tools for newcomers while providing institutional-grade features like over-the-counter (OTC) trading for high-net-worth clients. Its commitment to transparency and innovation has earned it a trusted reputation.

VirgoCX overview

One of VirgoCX’s key strengths is its fee structure. Free e-transfers, CAD deposits, and crypto withdrawals for most coins make it an attractive option for Canadians looking to minimize costs.

While it excels at offering competitive spreads for major cryptos like Bitcoin and Ethereum, its smaller altcoin spreads can be notably higher. Additionally, the trading spreads for Bitcoin recently increased from 0.80% to 1.60%, which may affect frequent traders.

Despite these challenges, VirgoCX remains one of Canada’s most cost-effective platforms for large-cap cryptocurrencies, offering discounts starting at $3,000 trading volume and a transparent fee breakdown.

VirgoCX is a multifunctional trading platform that supports both crypto-to-crypto and crypto-to-fiat pairs. Users can trade popular cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Stellar, as well as fiat currencies like USD and CAD. The platform offers features such as deep liquidity pools, which help to minimize price slippage for institutional investors.

With no hidden fees, VirgoCX supports transparent pricing and secure transactions. Dedicated account managers and referral programs add value for retail and institutional clients, enhancing VirgoCX’s appeal in Canada’s competitive crypto landscape.

Cryptocurrencies	90+
Funding methods	Credit/Debit cards, Interac e-Transfer
Trading fees	Credit card (2.99%), Debit cards (3.99%), Interac e-Transfer (Free)
Customer service	Email and live chat support
Regulation	Registered with the Ontario Securities Commission (OSC)
KYC required?	Yes

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7. Netcoins: Best for those prioritizing low fees and a wide range of supported cryptocurrencies

Netcoins offers a seamless user experience catering to novice and experienced investors. Its straightforward platform and essential features make cryptocurrency trading accessible to many users turning it into one of the most reputable canadian crypto exchanges.

Netcoins was established in 2014. While it initially operated as a virtual Bitcoin ATM provider, it has since expanded its services and become a complete cryptocurrency exchange.

Netcoins overview

Designed primarily for beginners, the platform offers a straightforward on-ramp into the world of digital assets. Its intuitive interface and clear layout make buying, selling, and holding cryptocurrencies accessible to many users.

While Netcoins excels in providing a secure and simple trading environment, it might fall short for experienced traders seeking advanced features, such as margin trading or a vast array of trading pairs.

Netcoins’ commitment to regulatory compliance is evident through its registration with the British Columbia Securities Commission (BCSC).

This adherence to industry standards instills confidence in users regarding the platform’s security measures and operational transparency. However, it’s essential to note that the platform’s primary focus on simplicity might limit its appeal to those seeking sophisticated trading tools or a deep liquidity pool.

Cryptocurrencies	50+
Funding methods	Interac e-transfer, Bank wire, Cryptocurrency deposits
Trading fees	0.5% (Trading fees)
Customer service	Email and Phone support
Regulation	FINTRAC, Canadian Securities Administrators (CSA, BCSC)
KYC required	Yes

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8. Shakepay: Best for those seeking instant crypto purchases and a rewards program

Shakepay shines as an excellent entry point for newcomers to the crypto world. Its user-friendly interface and straightforward approach make it an ideal platform to start your crypto journey.

As a Canadian cryptocurrency exchange platform, it has gained significant traction due to its user-friendly interface and focus on security.

Founded in 2015, the platform has grown to serve over 1.3 million Canadians, offering a range of cryptocurrencies for buying, selling, and trading.

Shakepay overview

Shakepay is a Canadian cryptocurrency exchange that has established itself by prioritizing simplicity and accessibility. Designed for beginners, the platform offers a clean, intuitive layout that effortlessly guides users through the crypto buying and selling process.

One of Shakepay’s standout features is its Shake and Earn program, which allows users to accumulate small amounts of Bitcoin by simply shaking their phones. This gamified approach to crypto investing is a fun way to introduce newcomers to digital currencies and even pay with Bitcoin.

Shakepay is great for beginners, but advanced traders may miss some desired features. Other platforms may provide more advanced tools and options for those exploring crypto trading more deeply.

As one of Canada’s earliest and most established cryptocurrency platforms, Shakepay has played a pivotal role in increasing crypto adoption.

Cryptocurrencies	Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH)
Funding methods	Interac e-Transfer ®, Wire transfer, Bitcoin, Ethereum, Shakepay a friend
Trading fees	Free, 1.75% fee to BTC-to-CAD and CAD-to-BTC market rates.
Customer service	Email, Live chat (limited hours)
Regulation	FINTRAC and Revenue Québec
KYC required	Yes

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Best crypto exchanges in Canada compared

Exchange	No. of Cryptos	Funding	Trading Fees	Support
NDAX	40+	Interac e-Transfer, Wire transfer	0.2% (Trading fees)	Live chat, email, phone
Coinbase	200+	Bank transfer, Debit card (No Credit Card or PayPal)	Maker: 0% and 0.40%, Taker: 0.05% – 0.60%	Live chat, email, phone
Kraken	175+	Credit/Debit card, wire transfer, e-Transfer, or Canada Post	Kraken Pro: Maker 0.25%, taker 0.40%. Instant Buy: 0.9% stablecoins, 1.5% others.	Email, ticket system
Bull Bitcoin	1	Email money transfers, bank wire, bill payments, cash or debit via Canada Post	Spread, almost no fees on most methods	Email (Phone for certain packages)
Bitbuy	50+	Interac e-Transfer, Wire transfer	Express Trade: 0.5% – 2% spread Pro Trade: Lower spreads (variable)	Live chat, email
VirgoCX	90+	Credit/Debit cards, Interac e-Transfer	Credit card (2.99%), Debit cards (3.99%), Interac e-Transfer (Free)	Email, live chat
Netcoins	50+	Interac e-transfers, Wire transfer, or crypto deposits	0.5% (Trading fees)	Email, phone
ShakePay	2	Interac e-Transfer ®, Wire transfer, Bitcoin, Ethereum, Shakepay a friend	Free, 1.75% fee to BTC-to-CAD and CAD-to-BTC market rates.	Email, in-app support

Trading fees vary significantly based on transaction type, volume, and other factors. Also, cryptocurrency regulations and fees can change rapidly. Payment methods: Some exchanges offer additional payment options or have specific limitations for particular methods.

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Different types of crypto trading platforms in Canada

• Cryptocurrency exchanges: Cryptocurrency exchanges are platforms that specialize in one thing – the buying and selling of cryptocurrency. They provide specialized tools for crypto trading and may also include extra features like a debit spending card or ways to earn rewards on crypto you already own.
• Stock brokers: You can now buy crypto from an increasing number of stock brokers and trading platforms in Canada. Typically, they offer only a handful of assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum and perhaps a few altcoins if you’re lucky. ETFs are an increasingly popular way to invest in crypto via a stock broker, thanks to the launch of several high-profile BTC and ETH ETFs in 2024.
• Trading apps: Trading apps like Robinhood, Revolut, and WeBull are gaining popularity among certain investors because they simplify investing. These days, you can find a good range of cryptocurrencies on these apps in Canada.

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How to choose the best cryptocurrency exchange in Canada

Here are some important factors you should remember when choosing a crypto trading platform:

• Your investment goals: Different platforms cater to different trading volumes and styles, so there should not be a one-size-fits-all approach here. Are you seeking low deposit or withdrawal fees, high liquidity, fast order execution, or accessible customer support?
• Supported cryptocurrencies: What coins are available for purchase or sale on the platform?
• Trading fees: These fees differ from one exchange to another. If you trade often, you may want a market that offers competitive rates.
• Security measures: Look for exchanges with high-security standards, such as two-factor authentication or cold storage options, which offer maximum protection against loss or theft due to hacking or other vulnerabilities.
• Customer support: Does it have customer service that could address problems if any arise?
• Ease of use: Looking at the user interface, would it be considered beginner-friendly? i.e., is the user interface easy to understand and navigate?

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Risks of using a crypto exchange in Canada

Cryptocurrency exchanges come with a unique set of risks that set them apart from traditional trading platforms like stock brokers.

• Security breaches: Unfortunately, security breaches are a major risk of using crypto exchanges. While many exchanges employ top-tier security, thieves can still target users directly. This is usually through phishing or scam attempts that target your email address. They will often send an email that looks like its from the exchange, inviting you to login via a link provided in the email.
• Third-party custody: A common saying in crypto is “Not your keys, not your coins.” This refers to the fact that you only truly own your own crypto if it’s in a personal wallet, and you control the private keys, too. When you leave your crypto on an exchange, you ultimately trust the exchange to care for those funds responsibly.
• Lack of consumer protection. In Canada, exchanges have to register as Money Services Businesses (MSB) with FINTRAC. While this gives you some consumer protections, the laws around MSBs were made before crypto was around and are a loose fit at best. As such, if anything goes wrong, you have limited options for legal recourse.
• Asset delistings. Centralized exchanges in Canada may occasionally remove certain assets. This can happen for a number of reasons, including regulatory or legal, poor performance or market interest in the asset, and security concerns.

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Understanding Canadian cryptocurrency regulations

The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) requires Canadian crypto users to report half of their capital gains as taxable income on their tax returns. The fair market value of crypto-assets during a trade is generally used for tax reporting. Keeping thorough records of all transactions is mandatory for both individuals and businesses.

Records should include the transaction details, such as type and number of crypto-assets, dates, values in Canadian dollars, wallet addresses, and the nature of each transaction. Additionally, starting and ending wallet balances for the year must be documented. Supporting receipts for expenses like legal fees, accounting services, and software costs used to manage taxes should also be retained.

Crypto-asset exchanges operating in Canada follow stricter rules than foreign exchanges. The CRA can demand detailed account information from Canadian exchanges, including trade and transfer ledgers.

Conversely, the CRA has less authority to obtain user data for foreign exchanges like Kraken, which are regulated by FINTRAC but not based in Canada.

This difference is significant for users concerned about privacy, as Canadian exchanges are obligated to comply fully with CRA requests. However, regardless of the exchange used, the Canadian crypto community must adhere to all tax laws to avoid penalties.

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How to get started on a crypto exchange in Canada

Getting started on a crypto exchange in Canada involves several straightforward steps. Here’s a detailed guide to help users begin their trading journey:

1. Choose the Right Exchange

• Research exchanges that suit your needs. Look for factors like regulation, fees, supported cryptocurrencies, and user reviews. Try to ensure the exchange supports CAD deposits and complies with Canadian laws.

Writer’s note: We suggest the exchanges/platforms listed above.

2. Create an account

• Click on the “Sign Up” or “Register” button.

3. Verify your identity

• Complete the Know Your Customer (KYC) process, as required by Canadian law.

• Disclaimer: You might need to upload a valid government-issued ID (e.g., passport, driver’s license). Provide proof of address, such as a utility bill or bank statement. Some exchanges may even require a selfie for identity verification.

4. Deposit funds

• Choose your preferred payment method (e.g., Interac e-Transfer, wire transfer, credit card, or PayPal).
• Follow the instructions to link your bank account or card for deposits. Transfer funds in CAD or other currencies to your exchange wallet.

5. Explore the platform

• Familiarize yourself with the interface, including the dashboard, trading pairs, and available features. Most exchanges offer tutorials or demos for beginners.

6. Make your first trade

• Navigate to the “Buy/Sell” section. Select the cryptocurrency you want to buy, such as Bitcoin (BTC) or Ethereum (ETH).

• Enter the amount you want to purchase and review the fees. Confirm the transaction to complete your trade.

7. Monitor and manage your portfolio

• Track your investments using the exchange’s portfolio management tools. Review market trends and adjust your trading strategy as needed. Explore advanced features like staking or margin trading (if offered).

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Methodology: How we chose the best crypto exchanges in Canada

Our rating system was designed to identify the best cryptocurrency exchanges in Canada based on factors important to Canadian crypto investors. Here are some of the factors we looked at:

• Regulation and security: We emphasize platforms registered with bodies such as FINTRAC and the Canadian Securities Administrators (CSA). We also look at security measures such as two-factor authentication, cold storage for crypto assets, and a history of preventing hacks.
• Trading fees: We consider fees for buying, selling, or trading cryptocurrencies. These include maker-taker and spread fees and other deposits or withdrawal charges. Our approach is to prefer transparent fee structures with competitive rates.
• Supported cryptocurrencies: This process evaluates the choices available to investors who want to engage in trading activities. These range from popular choices like Bitcoin and Ethereum to newer altcoins.

• Ease of use: This criterion examines how easily users can interact with the platform’s user interface and user experience (UI/UX). Factors such as intuitive design, simple navigation menus, mobile app availability, and ease of use for beginners contribute to this evaluation.
• Customer support: We assess the quality and accessibility of customer support provided by each exchange. This includes response times, the variety of support channels available, such as live chat, phone, or email, and the general helpfulness of support staff.
• Additional features: In addition to a user-friendly interface, an exchange might have included other features to make it more attractive. Examples include educational resources, staking rewards, referral programs, or useful integrations.

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FAQs