The Canadian Dollar (CAD) is the official currency of Canada and the fifth most-held reserve currency in the world, following the US Dollar, Euro, British Pound Sterling, and the Japanese Yen. Its value is shaped by policies set by the Bank of Canada, guided by its Governing Council, which plays a crucial role in maintaining the stability of the currency.
When you’re ready to buy or sell Canadian dollars, US First Exchange provides a reliable, secure, and cost-effective way to do it – offering real-time Canadian Dollar rates, insured delivery, and tools to help you make smarter foreign currency exchange decisions. With us, you can trade confidently knowing your funds are secure every step of the way.
Over the years, Canadian currency notes have gone through several design updates and improvements. The latest series of Canadian banknotes was first issued by the Bank of Canada between 2011 and 2013 and has more advanced security features for fraud prevention.
| 1935 Series | 1937 Series | Canadian Landscape Series (1952) | Scenes of Canada Series (1969) |
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| Birds of Canada Series (1986) | Canadian Journey Series (2001) | Frontier Series (2011) |
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If you're wondering where to buy Canadian Dollars, you can exchange your USD to CAD at competitive currency exchange rates online in a few simple steps using our secure foreign exchange platform.
Select the currency and the amount you want to buy.
Choose between multiple payment methods for your money transfer - by credit card, bank draft, or money wire.
Verify your identity to have a secure transaction.
Select your shipping address and your preferred shipping method.
Pick the currency you are interested in purchasing along with amounts. You can add multiple currencies in one
Select your method of payment. You have multiple options including credit card, bank draft, or money wire.
To provide secure and safe transactions, we will ask verification questions to prove your identity.
Enter your delivery information and choose your shipping information.
If you have leftover Canadian currency you wish to convert back to US dollars, you can exchange CAD to USD quickly and safely using our services.
Choose how much you wish to sell and calculate the price. Verify your identity and the preferred payout method for delivering your funds.
Request a shipping kit and shipping instructions. The instructions will be delivered to you electronically.
You will receive a receipt for the currency exchange, and the funds will be transferred into your account when we receive your shipment.
Anything else on your mind about Canadian currency?
Canadian money is called the Canadian Dollar (CAD), represented by the symbol $ or sometimes C$ to distinguish it from other dollar-denominated currencies. Locally, people simply refer to it as the “dollar”. The one-dollar coin is commonly called the “loonie” because it features a loon, a well-known Canadian bird. The two-dollar coin is nicknamed the “toonie”, combining “two” and “loonie.”
Canadian money is known for its vibrant colors, imagery, and advanced security features. Canadian banknotes are printed by the Bank of Canada and made from durable polymer note material, which gives them a smooth, glossy feel and helps prevent wear and counterfeiting. Each bill features a distinct color and portrait, e.g., the $5 note is blue and features Sir Wilfrid Laurier, while the $100 note is brown and features Sir Robert Borden.
Canadian coins are minted by the Royal Canadian Mint and vary in size, composition, and color, ranging from silvery to golden, and include the nickel (5¢), dime (10¢), quarter (25¢), the $1 “loonie,” and the $2 “toonie.”
The best way to buy Canadian dollars is through a licensed online foreign exchange platform like US First Exchange rather than at local airports or foreign exchange kiosks, as these alternatives often come with poor rates, high fees, and interest rates in Canada.
You can use our currency calculator to see how far your money will go, plan your budget effectively, buy Canadian dollars online at favorable exchange rates, and have local currency in hand before travelling.
You can get Canadian money in the US through licensed online platforms like US First Exchange, which handle foreign exchange cash transactions safely and conveniently. While some turn to local banks or kiosks, these options often come with higher fees and less favorable rates. Using a trusted platform ensures you can buy Canadian dollars at competitive rates.
Yes, you can get Canadian dollars at many US banks, but availability and procedures vary. Most banks will require you to request the currency in advance, as not every branch carries foreign currency on hand. Additionally, banks often charge higher fees and offer less favorable exchange rates compared to licensed online platforms like US First Exchange.
The rate you see online is a "spot rate" and will differ from the exchange rate the bank gives you, as they add a profit margin and may charge a markup for the transaction. Non-customers also might face higher fees. For convenience, competitive rates, and the ability to handle foreign exchange cash transactions quickly, at any time, and at any amount, using online currency exchange services is usually the best option.
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