Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC)
The Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC) is Canada’s national financial intelligence unit responsible for detecting, preventing, and deterring money laundering, terrorist financing, and other illicit financial activity. While FINTRAC does not regulate forex trading directly, all forex brokers operating in Canada must be registered as Money Services Businesses (MSBs) with FINTRAC and comply with AML/ATF (Anti-Terrorist Financing) requirements.
The Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC) plays a key role in Canada’s forex ecosystem by ensuring that brokers meet strict AML/CFT obligations. While it does not regulate trading itself, FINTRAC registration is a minimum legal requirement for any forex firm handling transactions in Canada.
- Requires forex brokers to register as Money Services Businesses (MSBs)
- Enforces AML/CFT policies, risk assessments, and suspicious transaction reporting
- Coordinates with other regulators such as CIRO, OSC, and IIROC for enforcement
- Visit the FINTRAC MSB Registry
- Search by business name, registration number, or location
- Confirm registration status, services offered, and expiry date
- Develop and implement a written compliance program
- Appoint a Compliance Officer
- Perform Know-Your-Client (KYC) and Customer Due Diligence (CDD)
File the following reports:
- Suspicious Transaction Reports (STRs)
- Large Cash Transaction Reports (LCTRs)
- Electronic Funds Transfer Reports (EFTRs)
- Conduct risk assessments and ongoing training
Country
Canada
Established
2000
Contact
1-866-346-8722
Complaint bodies
FINTRAC – for AML reporting and MSB compliance, CIRO / OSC / IIROC – for trading-related misconduct
Hotline
1-866-346-8722
Complaint email
Last updated on: April 07, 2025
High Risk Warning : Please note that foreign exchange and other leveraged trading involves significant risk of loss. It is not suitable for all investors and you should make sure you understand the risks involved, seeking independent advice if necessary.