It's been a while since we went to Canada, and we plan to go later on this year. My question is do we need a pin number for our credit cards? Any other information about recent changes to traveling there? Thanks!
Posted by
Vancouver, BC, Canada
1395 posts
I usually use my MasterCard in Google Wallet in my phone. When the amount exceeds the $250 Google Wallet limit, I use my credit card. Usually I can just tap my card without a PIN. Sometimes, I need to swipe and use a PIN, if the vendor is using older machine or when tapping fails. And if I need to take out cash with credit card in an emergency (e.g. lost stolen debut card), I would need a PIN at an ATM. Better to have a PIN than not.
Posted by
Calgary, AB, Canada
591 posts
For credit cards we can usually just tap, as funpig says. However my card has a $250 limit, after which I have to enter a PIN. Other changes might include that there are a few places that no longer accept cash. Not many, but you do see it.
Posted by
Calgary, Alberta, Canada
4742 posts
Tap, or chip and pin for over $250. Some machines still allow you to swipe, but I believe a pin is still required. Outside of the US, I can't recall the last time I swiped my card or signed a receipt.
Posted by
Bainbridge Island, WA
308 posts
We were recently in Victoria, BC and used our chip card for a $300+ purchase and had no issues with tap and pay. It was a Visa through BofA. We used it everywhere and had no issues nor a need for a PIN. Likewise on our December trip to London - no pin or signature needed anywhere.