- Ethereum is an open access, community-run digital platform that provides access to the cryptocurrency ether or ETH.
- Ethereum is decentralized so you can trade ETH with another party without going through an intermediary such as a bank.
- The platform is programmable so you can use it to buy other digital assets including Bitcoin, NFTs, or other cryptocurrencies.
This step-by-step guide will take you through the process of buying Ethereum from Canada today.
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Where to buy Ethereum
On website
Highlights
- Get a $40 bonus when you sign up via Finty.
- CAD deposits are free, and you can withdraw via Interac e‑Transfer without paying extra.
- Choose between Express trades for speed or Pro trades with lower fees and more control.
- Regulated in Canada, Bitbuy is registered with the OSC and FINTRAC — making it one of the more trusted local platforms.
Pros
Cons
On website
Highlights
- Get $10 when you sign up and deposit at least $100 into your account.
- Quick deposits and withdrawals via Interac e-Transfer and wire.
- Low flat trading fee of 0.20% across all pairs, making costs predictable.
- Built for Canadians, with CAD support and compliance with Canadian banking standards.
- Advanced trading features like limit orders, recurring buys, and real-time charting for more control.
Pros
Cons
On website
Highlights
- Register in just 60 seconds and start investing with as little as $50.
- No CAD deposit and withdrawal fees.
- Coinberry is insured, FINTRAC registered & PIPEDA compliant and is the only digital asset platform trusted by Canadian Government municipalities.
Pros
Cons
On website
Highlights
- Get $10 when you sign up and get verified and an additional $20 when you deposit over $100.
- Trade over 60 cryptocurrencies with no deposit or withdrawal fees for Interac e‑Transfer and wire transfers in CAD.
- Choose between Quick Trade for fast transactions or Advanced Trade for full control with charts and limit orders.
Pros
Cons
Step 1: Select an exchange that sells Ethereum
Ethereum is one of the biggest names in cryptocurrency and is listed on practically every crypto exchange. Finding one that sells Ethereum is not difficult — we've listed some good options above — but there are some points of differentiation to consider: account funding options, what they charge for trades, and also if they charge a fee on deposits and withdrawals.
Step 2: Register and verify your identity
After you've chosen an exchange, you'll have to register an account and prove your identity. What information is required will vary by the exchange. Typically you'll need to provide your name, date of birth, and address. Additionally, a copy of a government-issued form of ID may be required before your account can be verified and secured. In all, this process can be completed within a few minutes.
Step 3: Set your budget
Crypto is a volatile asset class that experiences bull runs and sudden drops, so it's important to decide how much to invest in Ethereum and stick to it. Only ever invest what you can afford to lose.
Step 4: Fund your account
You can send fiat currency or cryptocurrency to your exchange account.
Most exchanges accept fiat currency (CAD) transfers from a bank account, credit card, or debit card. Payments via Interac e-Transfer, PayPal, etc. may also be supported, but this varies widely between exchanges. Fiat deposits can take a few days to clear into your account at the exchange.
An alternative way to fund your account is to transfer cryptocurrency from a wallet you control, but this may incur processing charges.
A minimum amount may be required for your first deposit.
Step 5: Buy Ethereum
Various order types are available for buying, much like there are with a stock broker. More complex order configuration tends to be limited to exchanges that are more geared towards the intermediate to experienced trader.
If you are new to trading, a market order is the easiest option, i.e. buy Ethereum at the next available price. Some exchanges offer the ability to configure recurring buys, which means you can take advantage of dollar cost averaging over time.
Where to store your Ethereum
You can store Ethereum in the exchange wallet and third-party wallets.
If you want easy access to your coins, store your Etherum in a hot wallet (e.g. at the exchange). Hot wallets are very accessible, meaning you can trade more frequently. However, they have a greater risk of theft since they are connected to the internet.
A safer alternative is to store your Ethereum in a cold wallet. These offline storage devices can be manually connected to the internet when you want to access your crypto.
