The cryptocurrency landscape in Canada continues to grow, with increasing user adoption and trading volume. However, Canadian residents face a more limited selection of crypto exchanges compared to other countries due to stringent regulations by the Canadian Securities Administration (CSA). Global giants like Binance, KuCoin, and OKX are either unavailable or offer restricted services in Canada.
This guide explores the best legal crypto exchanges in Canada, highlighting their features, pros, and cons to help you make an informed decision.
Top 9 Crypto Exchanges for Canadian Users in 2025
- Kraken – Best overall exchange for Canadians
- Coinbase – Most user-friendly platform
- VirgoCX – Safe and easy access to crypto
- Bitget – Innovative copy trading features
- Crypto.com – Powerful DeFi-focused app
- Gemini – Trusted and regulated exchange
- Bitbuy – CSA-regulated trading platform
- NDAX – Canada-based exchange with staking
- Shakepay – Simplified Bitcoin investing
Detailed Review of the Best Exchanges
1. Kraken – Best Overall Exchange for Canadians
Why It Stands Out:
- Supports 200+ cryptocurrencies and 600+ trading pairs.
- High-security standards with zero hacks since 2011.
- Features like margin trading, futures, staking (up to 26% APY), and NFTs.
| Founded | 2011 |
| Supported Coins| 217 |
| Trading Volume| CA$1.92B daily |
Best For: Traders seeking security and diversity.
2. Coinbase – Most User-Friendly Platform
Why It Stands Out:
- Simple interface ideal for beginners.
- 220+ supported cryptocurrencies.
- Publicly traded, ensuring transparency.
| Founded | 2012 |
| Supported Coins| 219 |
| Trading Volume| CA$5.13B daily |
Best For: New investors and ease of use.
3. VirgoCX – Canadian Exchange with Low Fees
Why It Stands Out:
- 0.95% spread for BTC/ETH (lower with USDC pairs).
- Recurring buys for dollar-cost averaging (DCA).
- Interac e-Transfer support for instant deposits.
| Founded | 2018 |
| Supported Coins| 84 |
Best For: Canadians preferring local payment methods.
4. Bitget – Copy Trading Leader
Why It Stands Out:
- Copy trading mirrors top traders.
- 126% growth in native token (BGB) in 2024.
- PoolX & Premarket for early token access.
| Founded | 2018 |
| Supported Coins| 828 |
Best For: Traders interested in social trading.
5. Crypto.com – DeFi and Visa Rewards
Why It Stands Out:
- 5% cashback on crypto Visa card.
- NFT marketplace and staking.
- 80M+ users worldwide.
| Founded | 2016 |
| Supported Coins| 304 |
Best For: DeFi enthusiasts and card users.
6. Gemini – Trusted and Regulated
Why It Stands Out:
- Founded by Winklevoss twins (early Bitcoin investors).
- Earn Lending program (though under SEC scrutiny).
| Founded | 2014 |
| Supported Coins| 44 |
Best For: Security-focused users.
7. Bitbuy – CSA-Regulated Platform
Why It Stands Out:
- Fully CSA-licensed.
- No deposit fees for Interac/bank transfers.
| Founded | 2016 |
| Supported Coins| 18 |
Best For: Canadians prioritizing regulation.
8. NDAX – Staking and Referral Rewards
Why It Stands Out:
- 13% APY staking for Cosmos.
- CA$1,000 referral bonuses.
| Founded | 2018 |
| Supported Coins| 36 |
Best For: Passive income seekers.
9. Shakepay – Bitcoin-Focused
Why It Stands Out:
- 1% Bitcoin cashback Visa card.
- Auto-buy DCA feature.
| Founded | 2015 |
| Supported Coins| 2 (BTC/ETH) |
Best For: Bitcoin investors.
FAQs
Q: Which exchange has the lowest fees?
A: VirgoCX (0.95% spread for BTC) and Bitget (0.02% futures fees).
Q: Are these exchanges CSA-approved?
A: Bitbuy, NDAX, and Shakepay are fully regulated; Kraken and Coinbase operate under interim approval.
Q: Can I use Interac e-Transfer?
A: Yes, VirgoCX, Bitbuy, and NDAX support Interac.
Conclusion
While Canada’s strict regulations limit exchange options, platforms like Kraken, Coinbase, and Bitbuy provide robust services. For new investors, Coinbase’s simplicity is ideal, while advanced traders may prefer Kraken or Bitget.
👉 Explore these exchanges today to start your crypto journey in Canada!