The cryptocurrency industry in Canada is rapidly growing, and with it, the demand for Money Services Businesses (MSBs) that can facilitate the exchange of fiat currency for cryptocurrency. To operate legally as an MSB in Canada, businesses must register with the Financial Transactions and Reports Centre of Canada (FINTRAC). This process can be complex and time-consuming, but it is essential for businesses that want to operate in the cryptocurrency space. If you want to operate as a Crypto exchange in Canada, but don’t have any local presence/substance/local company and etc, you can register your business as a Foreign Money Service Business.

Overall, starting a crypto exchange in Canada with F/MSB registration offers a strong foundation for a legitimate and trusted business. The benefits of regulatory clarity, increased trust, and access to financial services can outweigh the initial investment and time commitment.

Key advantages:

• Regulatory Clarity and Stability: Compared to some other regions, Canada offers a relatively clear and stable regulatory environment for cryptocurrency businesses. The MSB framework provides a defined path for compliance, reducing uncertainty for your exchange.
• Increased Trust and Credibility: An MSB registration signifies your commitment to operating legally and adhering to anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorism financing (CFT) regulations. This builds trust with potential users and partners, attracting more business and fostering a safer trading environment.
• Access to Financial Services: Without MSB registration, opening bank accounts and receiving payments from financial institutions can be challenging. An MSB license allows seamless integration with the traditional financial system, facilitating smoother operations.
• Potential for International Expansion: While the MSB license itself may not directly grant international access, it demonstrates compliance within a respected jurisdiction. This can be advantageous when working with foreign remittance providers or crypto businesses, opening doors for future expansion.
• Innovation and Growth: Canada’s supportive stance towards blockchain technology fosters an environment for innovation. This can be attractive for crypto businesses looking to develop new products and services within a regulatory framework.

Get in touch with us to learn more about becoming a VASP in Canada