With mobile payments becoming the norm, apps like Venmo are increasingly popular for splitting bills, paying friends, or sending money instantly. However, if you’re living in or moving to Canada, you might wonder: Does Venmo work in Canada?
Here’s the short answer:
No, Venmo does not currently work in Canada.
Whether you're a student, a business owner, or someone who frequently sends money, this guide will help you choose the best app for your needs.
Why Doesn’t Venmo Work in Canada?
Venmo is owned by PayPal, but it is designed exclusively for use within the United States. There are a few main reasons why Venmo isn't available in Canada:
- It’s linked only to U.S. bank accounts and U.S.-issued cards.
- Venmo operates under U.S. financial regulations and hasn’t expanded licensing for Canada.
- Canada has its own digital payment infrastructure that’s well-integrated and secure.
So, even if you try to download Venmo in Canada or use it with a Canadian phone number, it won’t work.
What Are the Best Venmo Alternatives in Canada (2025)?
Canada has several secure and user-friendly alternatives to Venmo that serve the same purpose—often with better domestic integration.
Here’s a breakdown:
Top Venmo Alternatives for Canadians
| App Name | Type | Key Features | Best For |
| Interac e-Transfer | Bank-based | Instant bank-to-bank transfers, secure, trusted | Everyday transactions |
| Wealthsimple Cash | App-based | Peer-to-peer payments, free cash transfers | Young adults, tech-savvy users |
| PayPal Canada | Global wallet | Send/receive internationally, shopping, invoices | Freelancers, online buyers |
| Wise (formerly TransferWise) | International | Low-cost currency exchange, global transfers | Sending money abroad |
| Koho | Prepaid + Wallet | Budgeting, cashback, bill payments | Budget-conscious Canadians |
| Revolut Canada | Digital bank | Multi-currency account, crypto, investments | Travelers, global citizens |
1. Interac e-Transfer
Used by most Canadian banks and credit unions, Interac e-Transfer is the most popular peer-to-peer (P2P) transfer system in Canada.
- Send money using email or phone number.
- Real-time or within 30 minutes.
- Directly linked to your bank account.
Why it’s great: No need to download a separate app; works through your existing banking app. Highly secure.
2. Wealthsimple Cash
This free app allows Canadians to send and receive money quickly, much like Venmo, with a modern interface.
- Easy peer-to-peer transfers.
- No fees.
- Works like a mobile wallet.
Bonus: If you use Wealthsimple Invest or Trade, all accounts are integrated in one app.
3. PayPal Canada
While PayPal owns Venmo, it is available in Canada with full functionality for both personal and business use.
- International transfers
- Buyer protection
- Invoice generation
Downside: Fees can apply, especially for currency conversions.
4. Wise (TransferWise)
If you need to send money to the U.S. or other countries, Wise offers some of the lowest exchange rates and transparent fees.
- Real-time exchange rate tracking
- Fast international transfers
- Multi-currency wallet
Best for: Expats, freelancers, and global business owners.
5. Koho
Koho is a Canadian financial app with a prepaid Visa card. It allows budgeting, saving, and sending money.
- Send money to other Koho users
- Real-time spending alerts
- Cashback on purchases
Great for students or those looking to build better financial habits.
6. Revolut Canada
Revolut is a digital banking app that launched in Canada with a suite of features:
- Instant transfers to Revolut users
- Currency exchange with minimal fees
- Crypto and investment options
Perfect for those who travel often or hold multiple currencies.
Comparison Table: Venmo vs Canadian Alternatives
| Feature | Venmo (US Only) | Interac e-Transfer | Wealthsimple Cash | PayPal Canada | Wise | Koho | Revolut |
| Works in Canada | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Instant Transfers | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ (fees apply) | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Free to Use | ✅ | ✅ (some banks may charge) | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Bank Integration | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Currency Conversion | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ (with fee) | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
Final Thoughts
While Venmo remains a top choice for money transfers in the U.S., it is not available in Canada. But Canadians have no shortage of great alternatives. Whether you're sending a friend money for coffee, paying rent, or doing business globally, apps like Interac, Wealthsimple Cash, and Wise are efficient and trustworthy.