Global Major Cities Guide

Sections

1. Currency Type in Ottawa, Canada

The official currency used in Ottawa, as in the rest of Canada, is the Canadian Dollar (CAD). The symbol for the Canadian Dollar is $, and it is often abbreviated as CAD to distinguish it from other dollar-based currencies. Locally, it is simply referred to as the "dollar."

Subunits of the Canadian Dollar

1 Canadian Dollar (CAD) = 100 cents
The cent symbol is ¢.

2. Denominations of the Canadian Dollar

The Canadian Dollar is available in both coins and banknotes:

Coins

1 cent (penny): No longer in circulation (discontinued in 2013). Prices are rounded to the nearest 5 cents for cash transactions.
5 cents (nickel): Small silver coin.
10 cents (dime): Smaller silver coin.
25 cents (quarter): Larger silver coin.
1 dollar (loonie): Gold-colored coin with a loon (bird) on one side.
2 dollars (toonie): Bi-metallic coin with a polar bear design.

Banknotes

Canadian banknotes are colorful, polymer-based, and highly durable. They come in the following denominations:

$5: Blue, featuring Sir Wilfrid Laurier.
$10: Purple, featuring Viola Desmond or Sir John A. Macdonald (depending on the series).
$20: Green, featuring Queen Elizabeth II.
$50: Red, featuring William Lyon Mackenzie King.
$100: Brown, featuring Robert Borden.

3. Exchange Options for Foreign Currency

If you are bringing foreign currency to Ottawa, you will need to exchange it for Canadian Dollars. Here are the most common options:

Banks

Major Canadian banks such as RBC (Royal Bank of Canada), TD Bank, Scotiabank, and CIBC offer currency exchange services.
Banks typically provide competitive exchange rates but may charge a small service fee.
You may need to present identification (e.g., passport) for larger transactions.

Currency Exchange Offices

Dedicated currency exchange offices, such as ICE (International Currency Exchange), are available in downtown Ottawa and at the Ottawa International Airport (YOW).
These offices may offer slightly better rates than banks but often charge a commission.

ATMs

ATMs in Ottawa accept most international debit and credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Cirrus, Plus).
Using an ATM is convenient, but be aware of potential foreign transaction fees and exchange rate markups from your home bank.

Hotels and Airports

Hotels and airport kiosks offer currency exchange services, but their rates are often less favorable compared to banks or dedicated exchange offices.

Tips for Exchanging Currency

Compare rates at different locations before exchanging large amounts.
Avoid exchanging money at tourist-heavy areas, as rates may be less favorable.
Keep receipts for currency exchanges in case you need to convert unused CAD back to your home currency.

4. Typical Costs for Common Items in Ottawa

Understanding the cost of everyday items can help you budget effectively. Below are approximate prices in CAD:

Food and Dining

Coffee (e.g., at Tim Hortons or Starbucks): $2.00–$5.00
Fast food meal (e.g., McDonald's combo): $10.00–$15.00
Casual dining (per person): $20.00–$40.00
Fine dining (per person): $50.00–$100.00

Transportation

Single public transit fare (OC Transpo bus or O-Train): $3.75
Monthly transit pass: $125.50
Taxi ride (5 km): $15.00–$20.00
Gasoline (per liter): $1.50–$2.00

Groceries

Loaf of bread: $3.00–$4.00
Milk (1 liter): $2.00–$3.00
Eggs (dozen): $3.50–$5.00
Apples (1 kg): $4.00–$6.00

Accommodation

Budget hotel: $100.00–$150.00 per night
Mid-range hotel: $150.00–$250.00 per night
Rent for a one-bedroom apartment (monthly): $1,500.00–$2,200.00

5. Digital Payment Trends in Ottawa

Ottawa, like the rest of Canada, is highly digitized when it comes to payments. Visitors and immigrants will find it easy to use digital payment methods for most transactions.

Common Digital Payment Methods

Credit Cards: Widely accepted, including Visa, Mastercard, and American Express.
Debit Cards: Interac is the primary debit card network in Canada.
Mobile Payments: Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay are commonly used.
Contactless Payments: Tap-to-pay is widely available for purchases under $250.00.

E-Wallets and Apps

Apps like PayPal, Venmo, and WeChat Pay are less common but may be accepted in some places.
Local apps like Interac e-Transfer are popular for peer-to-peer payments.

Tips for Digital Payments

Inform your bank or credit card provider of your travel plans to avoid declined transactions.
Check for foreign transaction fees on your cards.
Always carry some cash for small vendors or in case of technical issues with card payments.

6. Local Considerations for Using Money in Ottawa

Tipping Culture

Tipping is customary in Ottawa, especially in the service industry.
Restaurants: 15%–20% of the bill (before tax) is standard.
Taxis: 10%–15% of the fare.
Hotel staff: $2.00–$5.00 per service (e.g., housekeeping, bellhop).

Taxes

Prices displayed in stores and restaurants do not include taxes.
In Ottawa, a 13% Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) is added at checkout.

Rounding Rules

Since the penny is no longer in circulation, cash transactions are rounded to the nearest 5 cents:
- $1.01 or $1.02 → Rounded down to $1.00
- $1.03 or $1.04 → Rounded up to $1.05
Digital payments are not rounded.

Counterfeit Awareness

Canadian banknotes have advanced security features, such as transparent windows and raised ink. Familiarize yourself with these features to avoid counterfeit bills.

Language on Currency

Canadian currency features both English and French, reflecting the country’s bilingual nature.

7. Emergency Financial Assistance

If you lose your wallet or run out of funds:

Contact your bank to block lost cards and request replacements.
Use Western Union or MoneyGram for emergency cash transfers.
Visit your country’s embassy or consulate in Ottawa for additional support.

By understanding the currency system and payment culture in Ottawa, you’ll be well-prepared to manage your finances effectively during your visit or stay. Let me know if you need further assistance!