Why Should you Register a Money Service Business in Canada

Embarking on the journey of registering as a Money Services Business (MSB) in Canada is not just a legal necessity; it is a strategic move that unlocks significant financial opportunities.

Canada’s regulatory framework ensures that MSBs operate within a well-defined legal structure, fostering transparency and security in the financial sector.

What Qualifies as an MSB?

According to the Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC), a business qualifies as an MSB if it provides one or more of the following services:

Foreign exchange dealing
Remitting or transmitting funds
Issuing or redeeming money orders, traveler’s cheques, or similar instruments
Dealing in virtual currency
Facilitating crowdfunding platform services

If your business falls under any of these categories, MSB registration is mandatory to ensure compliance with Canadian regulations.

Expanding into Canada: Foreign Money Services Business (FMSB) Registration

For businesses not currently located in Canada, the country offers an Foreign Money Services Business (FMSB) registration process. This designation allows international businesses to operate in Canada without having a physical presence in the country.

By registering as an FMSB, companies gain access to:

Canada’s market of nearly 40 million consumers
Enhanced credibility with financial institutions and partners
A regulatory framework that supports cross-border financial services

This alternative registration route expands business horizons and positions enterprises for global growth while maintaining compliance with Canadian financial laws.

Benefits of MSB or FMSB Registration

1. Access to Banking Services

Many financial institutions require MSB registration before providing banking services. Registering enhances your credibility and helps secure banking relationships more efficiently.

2. Opportunities for Profitable Partnerships

Being a registered MSB or FMSB signals compliance and legitimacy, making it easier to establish partnerships with payment processors, financial institutions, and other FinTech firms.

3. Regulatory Compliance and Business Longevity

MSB registration ensures that your business operates within the legal framework, reducing the risk of regulatory fines and operational restrictions.

4. Pathway to Licensing and Expansion

Registering as an MSB lays the foundation for obtaining additional financial service licenses, further expanding your business’s capabilities.

How to Register as an MSB or FMSB

The registration process involves submitting an application through FINTRAC, Canada’s financial intelligence unit. This includes providing details about the business’s operations, ownership structure, and compliance measures.

For more details, visit FINTRAC’s official page on Money Services Businesses.

Get Expert Assistance for Your MSB or FMSB Registration

Navigating the MSB registration process can be complex, but AML Incubator simplifies it for you. Our team provides end-to-end support to ensure a smooth and compliant registration process.

Looking to register your MSB or FMSB?

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28.02.25

Written by Haik Kazarian, Head of Business Development

Reviewed by Tigran Rostomyan, Compliance Expert