Top 10+ Payment Gateways in Canada for 2024

Last updated on April 23rd, 2024

Introduction

In the modern digital landscape, payment gateways play a crucial role for businesses operating in the online realm. These sophisticated solutions enable companies to securely and effortlessly process payments from their customers via a variety of methods, including credit cards, debit cards, e-transfers, and more. As the digital economy grows, and the demand for online transactions continues to skyrocket, the market has seen a surge in the availability of payment gateway solutions. For businesses, this abundance of options can lead to confusion and difficulty in selecting the most suitable payment gateway that aligns with their specific operational needs and customer preferences.

To assist Canadian businesses in making an informed decision amidst this complex and ever-evolving scenario, we have meticulously curated a list of the top 10 payment gateway solutions in Canada for March 2024. This compilation has taken into consideration several critical factors such as the robustness of features offered by each platform, competitive pricing strategies, the quality of customer support services, and the overall user experience delivered. Our goal is to provide businesses with a comprehensive overview of the best payment gateway solutions available, enabling them to choose one that not only meets their requirements but also enhances their ability to conduct transactions smoothly and securely.

Some Important Statistics About Digital Payments in Canada

Before we dive into our list of the top 10 payment gateway solutions, let’s take a quick look at some notable statistics about digital payments in Canada:

• In 2020, the total revenue from digital payments in Canada amounted to approximately $217 billion.
• By 2024, it is estimated that the total transaction value of digital payments will reach $423 billion.
• Credit and debit card payments are the most popular digital payment methods in Canada, accounting for 65% of all transactions.
• The adoption rate of mobile wallets such as Apple Pay and Google Pay is steadily increasing, with a predicted growth rate of 28% by 2024.

Also Read: Ultimate Guide On Development Of a Payment Gateway: Cost, Benefit, Opportunities, and Uses

10 Best Canadian Payment Gateways

• Square: Ease and Cost-effective Solution for Digital Payments

Square is a popular payment gateway solution that offers businesses with an all-in-one platform for accepting payments. It provides cost-effective pricing plans and transparent transaction fees, making it an attractive option for small to medium-sized businesses. Square also offers various features such as invoice creation, recurring billing, and inventory management, making it a comprehensive solution for businesses looking to streamline their digital payment process.

• Stripe: An Developer Friendly Platform to Integrate Payments

Stripe stands out as a highly developer-friendly payment gateway solution, specifically designed to cater to businesses seeking an efficient and seamless API for integrating payment functionalities into their websites or mobile applications. It comes packed with an array of features aimed at enhancing the online payment experience, including advanced fraud detection to safeguard against unauthorized transactions, subscription billing options that allow for recurring payments without hassle, and fully customizable checkout options that can be tailored to match the unique brand identity of each business. Moreover, Stripe’s competitive pricing model makes it an attractive option for companies of all sizes. Additionally, its support for over 135 currencies and local payment methods across the globe positions it as an ideal choice for businesses aiming to reach international markets and accommodate a global customer base. This global reach, combined with its robust set of features, solidifies Stripe’s reputation as a leading payment solution in the digital age.

• Moneris: Leads Payment Processing for SMBs in the Market

Moneris, a leading Canadian-based payment processing company, has carved out a significant niche in the market, establishing itself as the go-to choice for small to medium-sized businesses looking for reliable and efficient transaction solutions. Its standout feature is its competitively low transaction fees coupled with remarkably fast processing times, which are particularly appealing for smaller businesses operating on tighter budgets. This advantage enables these businesses to manage their finances more effectively without compromising on the quality of payment processing services.

In addition to its cost efficiency, Moneris distinguishes itself by offering a diverse range of payment options. This includes traditional debit and credit card processing, as well as modern mobile payment solutions like Apple Pay and Google Pay. By accommodating a broad spectrum of payment methods, Moneris enables businesses to attract and retain customers who prefer the convenience of using their preferred payment method, thereby enhancing the overall customer experience.

Moreover, Moneris places a strong emphasis on security, implementing robust measures to safeguard against fraud and unauthorized transactions. This comprehensive approach to security not only protects the financial interests of businesses but also reinforces customer trust, which is essential for building long-term business relationships. With features like advanced encryption and real-time fraud monitoring, Moneris provides business owners with the peace of mind that their transactions are secure and their customers’ information is protected.

• PayPal: A Well-known Market Ruler of the Online Payments Industry

PayPal is undoubtedly one of the most renowned and widely used online payment solutions globally. With a presence in over 200 countries and supporting payments in over 25 currencies, PayPal has cemented its position as the market leader in the industry. It offers several features that make it an attractive option for businesses of all sizes, including fast processing times, competitive fees, and a user-friendly interface.

In addition to its core payment processing services, PayPal also offers additional features such as invoicing tools, subscription management, and international shipping capabilities. This makes it a one-stop-shop for all things related to online payments, simplifying the process for business owners and streamlining their operations.

• Elavon: One of the Top Five Global Payment Provider

Elavon is a leading global payment solutions provider, offering services to businesses in over 30 countries. Its extensive network allows for cross-border payments and supports multiple currencies, making it an attractive option for businesses looking to expand globally.

One of Elavon’s standout features is its focus on innovation and technology. It offers cutting-edge payment solutions such as mobile payments, contactless payments, and e-commerce integration, making it a top choice for businesses looking to stay ahead of the curve.

Furthermore, Elavon has an excellent reputation for customer service, providing businesses with 24/7 support and personalized solutions tailored to their specific needs. This level of care and attention has earned Elavon a spot as one of the top five global payment providers.

• Adyen:  A Comprehensive Payment Platform for Large Businesses

Adyen is a payment platform that caters specifically to large businesses with high volumes of transactions. Its all-in-one solution allows businesses to accept payments in over 250 currencies, making it an ideal choice for companies operating globally.

In addition to its wide range of currency support, Adyen also offers customizable payment flows, fraud protection, and data analysis tools, allowing businesses to optimize their payment processes and minimize risk.

Adyen’s platform is designed for large-scale enterprises, offering seamless integration with existing systems and the ability to handle high transaction volumes. With its focus on simplicity, security, and scalability, Adyen has become a top choice for many global businesses.

• BrainTree: A Flexible Payment Solution for Online Businesses

BrainTree is another popular payment platform that caters to the needs of online businesses. It offers a customizable API that allows businesses to create their own unique payment solutions, tailored to their specific industry and customer base.

One of BrainTree’s standout features is its sophisticated fraud detection system, which helps protect businesses from fraudulent transactions and chargebacks. It also offers a variety of payment methods, including credit and debit cards, as well as popular digital wallets like PayPal and Venmo.

BrainTree’s flexibility and wide range of features make it a popular choice for businesses looking to create a seamless payment experience for their customers.

• AfterPAy:  A Payment Solution for the Buy-Now-Pay-Later Trend

AfterPay, a payment solution, has significantly grown in popularity in recent years, especially among younger demographics such as millennials and Gen Z consumers. This innovative service allows customers to make purchases from participating merchants and then pay for these purchases in manageable installments over a period of time, rather than requiring a full payment upfront.

The rise of the buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) trend, with AfterPay at the forefront, has been remarkable. It caters to a modern consumer demand for greater financial flexibility and convenience, especially appealing to those who might not have the immediate funds for a full payment at the point of purchase. This method not only benefits consumers by offering a more accessible way to manage finances but also significantly aids merchants. By integrating AfterPay, merchants have observed a noticeable increase in their conversion rates and a reduction in cart abandonment rates. The reason behind this is that consumers are more likely to complete a purchase if they know they can spread the cost over time.

• WorldPAy: Global Payment Processing Made Easy

In today’s globalized economy, businesses are eagerly seeking avenues to widen their market presence and cater to customers from diverse geographical locations. This ambition to transcend local markets and embrace international commerce introduces a set of challenges, particularly in the realm of transaction processing. Enter WorldPay – a comprehensive global payment processing platform designed to empower businesses to seamlessly accept payments from customers across the globe.

WorldPay stands at the forefront of facilitating global commerce by offering a robust solution that supports transactions in over 140 currencies and provides access to more than 120 diverse payment methods. This includes everything from traditional credit and debit card payments to e-wallets and bank transfers, ensuring businesses can meet the preferences of their international customer base.

Moreover, WorldPay’s infrastructure is built with the complexity of cross-border transactions in mind, offering features like currency conversion and local payment options, which significantly ease the payment process for both businesses and their customers. This level of versatility and support empowers businesses to effortlessly expand their operations to new markets without the headache of navigating the complex landscape of international payments on their own.

• First Data: The Power of Integrated Payment Solutions

As businesses expand and their operations become more sophisticated, their requirements for processing payments also undergo significant changes. In the nascent phases of a business, simple payment processing methods might suffice. However, as the business attracts more customers and its operational complexity escalates, these initial systems can rapidly become obsolete. This evolution necessitates a more robust, efficient, and scalable payment processing solution to handle the growing demands. Enter First Data, a global leader in payment technology services. First Data offers comprehensive, integrated payment solutions that are designed to cater to businesses at every stage of growth. These solutions not only streamline the entire payment process but also enhance the customer experience, improve operational efficiency, and support the expansion of businesses into new markets. Whether a small startup or a large enterprise, First Data’s advanced technology and extensive expertise make it an indispensable partner for any business looking to thrive in today’s fast-paced commerce environment.

Read More: 10 Popular Mobile App Payment Gateways – A Complete Guide

How much does it cost to build Payment Gateways?

The cost of constructing a payment gateway varies widely, depending on several factors such as the complexity of the system, geographical location, compliance requirements, and the chosen technology stack. On average, the development cost can range from $50,000 to $150,000 for a basic payment gateway. However, for more sophisticated systems with advanced features such as fraud detection, multi-currency support, and seamless integration with a variety of payment methods, expenses can escalate to $200,000 or higher. Additionally, ongoing costs for maintenance, updates, security compliance, and customer support must also be considered, which can amount to approximately 15-20% of the initial development cost annually.

• Development Costs: The initial development costs for integrating basic payment gateway functionality typically range between $50,000 and $150,000. This includes setting up the core system that processes payments. However, for businesses looking to add advanced features to their payment gateway, such as custom user interfaces or specialized security protocols, costs can escalate to $200,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the requirements.
• Advanced Feature Costs: Incorporating sophisticated systems into the payment gateway, such as advanced fraud detection algorithms, support for multiple currencies, and the ability to integrate a wide range of payment methods, significantly increases the financial investment required. These features are essential for businesses that operate globally or in high-risk sectors, as they help to minimize risk and enhance user experience.
• Ongoing Expenses: Beyond the initial development, maintaining a payment gateway involves regular expenses. These include software updates, ensuring compliance with the latest security standards, and providing customer support to address any issues. These ongoing expenses generally amount to an additional 15-20% of the initial development cost annually, which is a critical consideration for long-term budgeting.
• Geographical Influence: The cost of developing a payment gateway can also vary significantly depending on the geographical location of the development team. Factors such as labor rates, the cost of living, and regulatory compliance requirements can all influence the overall cost. For example, developing a payment gateway in regions with a high cost of living and stringent regulatory frameworks, such as North America or Western Europe, is typically more expensive than in other regions.
• Technology Stack: The choice of technology stack—comprising the programming languages, databases, and server environments used—also plays a critical role in determining the cost and performance of a payment gateway. A more complex stack that enables greater scalability and security might increase initial costs but can offer better long-term value by accommodating growing transaction volumes and safeguarding against evolving security threats.

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How can iTechnolabs help you to build  Payment Gateways?

At iTechnolabs, we have a team of experienced developers and experts in the field of payment gateways. With our expertise, we can help your business to build a customized payment gateway that meets all your specific needs and requirements. Our development process is focused on delivering high-quality, robust, and secure payment gateways that provide seamless integration with your existing systems. We also offer ongoing support and maintenance services to ensure that your payment gateway remains up-to-date and functions smoothly.

Furthermore, our team stays updated with the latest industry trends and regulations to ensure that your payment gateway is compliant with all necessary standards. This can save you from potential legal issues and penalties in the future.

• Customization: iTechnolabs tailors payment gateway solutions specifically to your business needs, ensuring perfect alignment with your operational requirements.
• Expert Development: Leverage the expertise of our skilled developers who are proficient in the latest technologies for payment gateway development.
• Security and Compliance: Benefit from payment gateways designed with top-tier security measures and compliance with current financial regulations, safeguarding your transactions.
• Seamless Integration: Our payment gateways are built for smooth integration with your existing systems, ensuring a cohesive and efficient infrastructure.
• Scalability: We focus on creating solutions that can grow with your business, supporting increasing transaction volumes without a hitch.
• Continuous Support: iTechnolabs provides ongoing technical support and maintenance, ensuring your payment gateway remains operational and up-to-date.
• Future-Proofing: Stay ahead of industry advancements with a payment gateway that adapts to new trends and regulations, thanks to our forward-looking approach.

Are you looking for Payment Gateway solutions in Canada?

Choosing iTechnolabs for building your payment gateways offers a unique set of benefits that can significantly enhance the efficiency, security, and scalability of your financial transactions. By opting for our services, you align your business with a partner that prioritizes cutting-edge technology and customized solutions tailored to meet your specific needs. Our deep commitment to security and compliance ensures that every transaction processed through your gateway adheres to the highest standards, minimizing risks and protecting your customers’ data. Additionally, the seamless integration capabilities of our payment solutions mean that your transition to using our services will be smooth, with minimal disruption to your existing operations. The scalability of our gateways ensures that as your business grows, your ability to handle increasing volumes of transactions does so as well, without compromising on speed or reliability. Lastly, our continuous support and maintenance services ensure that your payment gateway remains up-to-date with the latest technological advancements and regulatory requirements, securing your infrastructure’s future and maintaining its effectiveness over time.

• Customized Solutions: At iTechnolabs, we understand that each business has unique needs. That’s why we offer customized payment gateway solutions that are specifically designed to meet the individual requirements of your business. This ensures optimal functionality and user experience, making transactions smoother and more efficient for you and your customers.
• Enhanced Security: Security is a top priority in today’s digital age, and our payment gateways reflect this by incorporating the latest in encryption and fraud prevention technologies. We provide unparalleled protection for your transactions and customer data, giving both you and your customers peace of mind when it comes to the safety of sensitive information.
• Scalable Infrastructure: As your business grows, so does the demand on your payment processing system. Our payment gateways are built with scalability in mind, designed to handle increased transaction volumes effortlessly, without compromising on performance or reliability. This means you can focus on expanding your business, knowing your payment infrastructure can keep up.
• Seamless Integration: We understand the importance of minimizing disruption to your operations during system upgrades or integrations. That’s why our payment gateways are designed for easy integration with your existing systems and platforms. This ensures a smooth transition and continued operational efficiency, allowing you to maintain business as usual even as you upgrade your payment processing capabilities.
• Regulatory Compliance: In the ever-evolving world of digital payments, staying compliant with the latest industry standards and regulations is crucial. iTechnolabs takes this responsibility seriously, ensuring that all our payment solutions adhere to the necessary legal requirements. This protects your business from potential legal and financial risks associated with non-compliance.
• Continuous Support and Upgrades: At iTechnolabs, our commitment to your success doesn’t end with the implementation of your payment gateway. We offer ongoing technical support and regularly update our systems to reflect the latest technological advancements and industry trends. This ensures that your payment infrastructure remains cutting-edge, securing its longevity and effectiveness in the rapidly changing digital landscape.

Important: How to Build a Payment App Like Zain Cash?

Conclusion:  

In today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving digital landscape, having a reliable and efficient payment processing system is crucial for the success of any business. At iTechnolabs, we understand the importance of staying ahead in this competitive market. That’s why we offer robust, scalable, and seamless payment solutions that cater to your unique business needs. With our continuous support and commitment to regulatory compliance, you can focus on growing your business while we take care of your payment infrastructure. Partner with iTechnolabs and experience the future of payments today.  So, whether you are a small startup or a large enterprise, choose iTechnolabs as your trusted partner for all your payment processing needs.

FAQ About Best Canadian Payment Gateways

How do payment processor apps work?

Payment processor apps function by securely transferring payment information from a customer’s account to a merchant’s bank account. These apps serve as vital intermediaries between the customer and the merchant. Their main roles include verifying the authenticity of card details provided by the customer, authorizing transactions to ensure that the funds are available, and then facilitating the seamless transfer of funds from the customer’s bank to the merchant’s account. This process involves a series of security checks and balances to protect both parties from fraud and unauthorized transactions, making digital transactions safe and reliable for everyday use.

Which payment method is mostly used in Canada?

Credit card payments are the most commonly used payment method in Canada. According to a study by Payments Canada, credit cards accounted for over 70% of all non-cash transactions made in 2020. Other popular payment methods include debit cards and online bank transfers, which have seen a significant increase in usage due to the rise of e-commerce and digital payments. However, with the emergence of new payment technologies such as mobile wallets and contactless payments, there is a growing trend towards using these methods for everyday transactions.

Which is the largest payment processor in Canada?

As of 2021, the largest payment processor in Canada is Moneris Solutions Corporation. It handles over 3 billion transactions annually and serves over 350,000 merchant locations across North America. Other major players in the Canadian payment processing market include Global Payments Inc., Chase Paymentech, and PayPal.

What is an API payment gateway?

An API payment gateway is a software interface that allows merchants to connect their online or digital platforms with the payment processor. This enables them to securely send and receive information related to transactions, such as customer details, credit card information, and authorization requests. With the growing demand for seamless and efficient online payments, many businesses are integrating API payment gateways into their systems to improve the customer payment experience and streamline their payment processes.