Is Chime Unavailable in Canada? Here Are Some Alternatives

Chime has become a popular online banking choice in the U.S. for people seeking a low-fee, mobile-first experience. But what if you live in Canada—or need features that go beyond local banking, like international transfers or financial tools designed for immigrants and freelancers?

Luckily, there are several strong Chime alternatives in Canada. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best options, including Zole, KOHO, EQ Bank, Tangerine, and Wise—each offering unique benefits for users seeking convenience, cost savings, and smarter financial control.

1. Zole – The Top Choice for Cross-Border Banking and Remittance

If you’re looking for more than just a digital bank, Zole is a game-changer—especially for Nigerians in Canada, immigrants, and people who send money internationally.

Zole is built to solve two big pain points:

1. Fast and seamless money transfers between Nigeria and Canada
2. Simple, accessible day-to-day financial tools like group savings in multi-currency wallets

Zole Features:

• Send money between Nigeria and Canada at the speed of the internet
• No transfer fees
• Easy sign-up, no credit check
• Zole pots helps group savings across countries

2. KOHO – Prepaid Mastercard with Budgeting Features

KOHO is a Canadian fintech app that provides prepaid Mastercard services and helps you earn cash back on everyday spending.

KOHO Highlights:

• Three plans (Essential, Extra, Everything), starting at $0/month
• Up to 2% cash back on groceries, dining, and transportation
• Earn up to 4% interest on savings
• Zero-interest cash advance up to $250
• Early payroll deposit

Drawbacks: Some features, like no foreign transaction fees, are locked behind paid plans. The Essential plan also requires monthly deposits of at least $1000 to avoid fees.

3. EQ Bank – High-Interest Savings + International Transfers

EQ Bank offers a fully digital banking experience with zero monthly fees and competitive interest rates on savings.

Pros:

• No monthly or transaction fees
• Up to 4% interest with direct deposit
• Low-cost international transfers via partnership with Wise
• Joint account option for up to 3 people

Cons: Limited availability of international transfer features in Quebec, and no options for depositing cash or cheques.

4. Tangerine – Big Bank Power, Digital Simplicity

Backed by Scotiabank, Tangerine is a fully digital bank offering no-fee chequing and various savings options.

Top Benefits:

• Zero monthly fees
• Overdraft protection
• Up to 2% cash back on credit card purchases
• Multiple savings account types

Cons: 2.5% markup on foreign exchange and no wire transfer capabilities.

5. Wise – Ideal for International Spending and Transfers

If your main priority is sending money abroad, Wise (formerly TransferWise) offers unbeatable value.

Why Wise Works:

• Mid-market exchange rate (no markups)
• Send money to 160+ countries
• Free multi-currency account with 40+ supported currencies
• Wise card helps avoid high foreign transaction fees while traveling

Best for: Frequent travellers, expats, freelancers, and anyone managing money in multiple currencies.

Choosing the Right Chime Alternative for Your Needs

While Chime isn’t available in Canada, you’re far from limited when it comes to smart, mobile-first banking solutions. Whether you’re looking for international transfers, cash back rewards, high-interest savings, or tools tailored to immigrants and freelancers, there’s a Canadian alternative that fits the bill.

• Zole is perfect if you need fast, fee-free money transfers between Canada and Nigeria, or you’re looking for a platform that understands the needs of a cross-border community.
• KOHO, EQ Bank, Tangerine, and Wise all offer their own strengths—from budgeting tools to global spending flexibility.

No matter your financial goals, these Chime alternatives offer the convenience, transparency, and innovation you need to take control of your money—right from your phone.