How can I access my money in Montréal?
I am an American and want to spend two months in Montréal next year. As far as pocket money, can I wait till I'm in Canada and exchange USD for CAD there, or should I go ahead and do that here? Where are some places where I can change the currency I'm carrying?
Also, is it possible to use my Visa Debit Card while in Montréal--and the currency is automatically converted--or is there some sort of limbo I have to place my money in, in CAD, while I'm using my card for these two months?
More Questions From This User See All
Answers & Comments
Verified answer
Debit cards operate on networks - so, the short answer is that you can use your card here as long as the ATM from which you are withdrawing money is on the same network as your debit card.
Check the back of your card: If it has a Plus logo or Interac logo, then you will be able to use it - all Canadian cards are on those networks and therefore our ATMs are compatible..
Be aware that the conversion rate may not be great and your bank may charge you a fee for withdrawals in foreign currency, especially if you're withdrawing the cash from a credit account and not your bank account. You should speak with them before you go to get the details - it really depends on the bank you use.
Yes, you can convert your money once you are here. You can do so at the currency exchange kiosks at the airport, or around town - there are several Globex offices on Ste Catherine's and a Calforex in the Eaton's Center -- you can also do it at some banks, like RBC, but you'll also get charged a fee if you are not a client.
Those currency converter companies often gouge you, so your best bet is to have it done at your own bank in the US. It is very likely that your bank will have Canadian funny money on hand to convert - if not, the worst case scenario will be that they have to order it, which won't take more than a week or two.
Have fun!
hey try this place out they are in montreal downtown and they awsome prices!
Bureau de change Super
www.s-e.ca
2087 Rue guy
Montreal H3H 2L9
TEL: 514-932-2223
You can use your Visa Debit card while in Montreal, and yes, the currency is automatically converted. You can exchange USD for CAD at any bank in Canada - or even at the airport, where there are always money-changing booths.
Enjoy your visit.
You won't have any problem while you're here. It's very easy to get Canadian money, with exchange counters and banks all over the place. I know everywhere accepts VISA credit cards here, but you'd have to check on debit cards, since in Canada we don't even have VISA debit cards.
That said, it's best to get some Canadian cash before coming. That will ensure you get the best exchange rate and you can avoid paying any foreign surcharges your bank might impose if you use your card while here.
Your debit card should work in Canada. Perhaps not at every single machine, but at most of them. It gives you a very current exchange rate. It's not a bad idea to have some Canadian money before you arrive in Canada or very soon after. Many Canadian businesses will accept US money but the exchange rate they give you is usually not good. You should be able to exchange at your bank at home, but call ahead because not every US bank keeps Canadian money on hand and they might have to arrange to get it in for you.There are currency exchanges in many airports, and often at land border crossings.
you should be able to use your debit card without problem. just make sure to call VISA before you leave for your trip because it happens that they freeze your account if you make any withdrawls out of your usual zone. so call before hand!
also, there are tons of places to convert your money- banks, special currency exchange places. you will find them everywhere, without problem! walk down saint catherine (the major street downtown) and you will pass a handful in a matter of minutes.
enjoy!