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As of September 2025, cardless ATMs are not yet widely available in Canada. However, there is general interest in bringing this technology to Canada. Much of the information in this article has been based on how the technology was implemented in the US.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n
What is a cardless ATM and how does it work?<\/h3>
A cardless ATM allows you to withdraw cash without using a physical debit card. Instead of inserting a card, you access the ATM by using your smartphone or a one-time code provided by your bank. This is beneficial if you\u2019re on a run, at the beach, at an amusement park or anywhere else you don\u2019t want to carry a card. You can even share your code with friends or family members so they can withdraw money when you\u2019re not there.<\/p>
An example of the most similar technology currently available in Canada is the RBC NFC-enabled ATMs, which allow customers to withdraw cash by tapping their bank card at the ATM rather than inserting it into the machine. This technology in Canada still requires a card and doesn\u2019t support Apple Pay or Google Pay.<\/p>
Cardless app-generated codes vs. near-field communication<\/h3>![\"debit](\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/finder-us\/wp-uploads\/sites\/5\/2018\/05\/credit-debit-card-icon_Finder_500x500.png\" "\\"Image:")
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There are two ways your phone may connect with a cardless ATM: through app-generated codes or near-field communication (NFC).<\/p>
App-generated codes are typically QR codes, although they can be a series of numbers. If your bank uses this type of technology, you request a withdrawal in your mobile app and then scan or enter the code once you get to the ATM. Then, the ATM verifies your identity and authenticates your transaction.<\/p>
Some ATMs use NFC to conduct cardless transactions. With this type of cardless ATM, you tap your phone against the ATM\u2019s contactless symbol and your phone\u2019s digital wallet pulls up. From there, you select which card you want to use from your wallet and enter your PIN. Then, the ATM authenticates your transaction.<\/p>
How extensive is the cardless ATM network?<\/h3>
The cardless ATM network in Canada is currently nonexistent. There are some ATMs that support NFC transactions, but you still need to use your physical card.<\/p>
However, Market Research Future projects the cardless ATM industry in Canada to grow at a compounded annual rate of 11.70% from 2025 to 2035, so many banks plan to modernize their ATM infrastructure to meet this demand.<\/p>
It requires a significant investment, though, and banks must also navigate strict security regulations, compliance requirements and ensure consumer trust before introducing cardless ATMs, which is why the rollout has been slow in Canada.<\/p>
What are the benefits of using cardless ATMs?<\/h3>- The convenience of travelling light.<\/b> With cardless ATMs, you have the ability to leave your wallet behind when the occasion calls for it.<\/li>
- In cases of emergencies. <\/b>You can continue to access your cash even if you\u2019ve left your wallet at home.<\/li>
- You can share money with your trusted family and friends.<\/b> Cardless ATMs make it easier to give family members limited access to your account when they need it. Rather than paying for extra debit cards or worrying about how much they withdraw, you can control their spending by using a cardless ATM.<\/li>
- No additional costs.<\/b> As long as you\u2019re using cardless ATMs in your bank\u2019s network, you shouldn\u2019t be charged any additional fees to withdraw cash.<\/li>
- Increased security.<\/b> Cardless transactions typically use a one-time code, QR code or mobile wallet authentication, reducing the risk of card skimming or fraud.<\/li><\/ul>
What are the drawbacks of using cardless ATMs?<\/h3>- Only at select banks.<\/strong> Right now, only select banks in the US offer cardless transactions with their accounts. We\u2019re waiting for this technology to launch Canada-wide.<\/li>
- Relies on the ATM\u2019s network.<\/strong> If the ATM network is down, you won\u2019t be able to use the code or your smartphone to withdraw money until it\u2019s up and running again.<\/li>
- Cardless ATM fraud.<\/strong> If someone gets a hold of your bank\u2019s login credentials and PIN, they can connect your account to their phone and withdraw money without needing your physical debit card.<\/li><\/ul>
Security tips when using cardless ATMs<\/h3>
With any product or device that provides access to your money, either on or offline, you need to be careful about its security. Here are some tips to help protect your money when using cardless ATMs:<\/p>
- Protect your online banking details. <\/b>Never share the password to your online bank account. With the password, people could gain access to your card details and make withdrawals without your consent.<\/li>
- Monitor suspicious transactions on your account. <\/b>Although banks take precautions to protect your information, there\u2019s always the possibility of a hack. If you notice unauthorized withdrawals from your account using a cardless ATM, notify the bank immediately.<\/li>
- Keep your phone secure.<\/strong> Use a strong passcode, fingerprint or facial recognition to prevent unauthorized access to your banking app.<\/li>
- Avoid public Wi-Fi.<\/strong> When accessing your banking app to generate codes, use a secure mobile network instead of unsecured public Wi-Fi.<\/li><\/ul>
Bottom line<\/h3>
While the technology exists to be able to withdraw money from an ATM without using a debit card, it isn\u2019t widely available in Canada just yet. Although using your smartphone for ATM withdrawals comes with greater convenience and ease of use, there are still legitimate limitations and security issues to watch out for.<\/p>
Interested in looking into a bank account with a traditional debit card? Check out our guide here<\/a>.<\/p>