Canada moves to ban cryptocurrency donations in federal elections
Canada is set to ban cryptocurrency donations in election campaigns under new legislation. The government introduced the Strong and Free Elections Act (Bill C-25) in early 2026, following consultations and earlier drafts from late 2025. While crypto donations have been technically allowed since 2019, they have rarely been used in federal elections. The move comes after Elections Canada held consultations between 2024 and 2025 on modernising campaign finance rules. In late 2025, the Liberal government proposed Bill C-2, the Elections Modernisation Act, which explicitly prohibits cryptocurrency donations to parties, candidates, and third-party advertisers. The bill passed its second reading in February 2026 and extends existing restrictions on foreign and corporate contributions to include digital assets.
Under previous rules, only cryptocurrencies with verifiable public blockchains were permitted, and donations over $200 had to be publicly disclosed. The new legislation treats crypto as either in-kind or monetary contributions, subjecting them to the same $1,725 individual donor limit (indexed annually). Anonymous or untraceable transfers will be banned to prevent circumvention.
The government argues that cryptocurrencies are difficult to trace, raising concerns about hidden foreign interference. If passed, campaigns receiving illegal crypto donations would have 30 days to return or dispose of them. Violations could result in penalties of up to twice the donation's value, with corporations facing an additional $100,000 administrative fine.
Canada's decision follows a similar ban introduced in the UK, as both countries seek to increase transparency in election financing. The proposed ban would apply to all political entities, including third-party advertisers. If enacted, the law will align crypto donations with existing restrictions on foreign and corporate funding. The government aims to close loopholes that could allow undisclosed or illegal contributions to influence elections.
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