The answer to this question depends on what you will be using GCash for. Generally, GCash is a Philippine-based financial service (e-wallet). You can open GCash even if you are located in Canada. You will have access to your account if you have internet access.
Can You Do Philippine Transactions with GCash in Canada?
You can use GCash in Canada to pay for transactions in the Philippines. Most modern SIM Cards can accept OTP in Canada. You do not need to activate roaming to receive your OTP because it will automatically do it.
You will need your Philippine SIM Card to keep using GCash in Canada. Many GCash processes will require that you enter an OTP. The OTP will be sent to the number used in your GCash account. If you don’t have your Philippine SIM, you will not be able to receive your OTP.
Can You Transfer your GCash Money to a Canadian Bank?
Currently, GCash has no functionality that will allow you to transfer money to your Canadian bank account. You must use a remittance service like Western Union or an international online wallet like Wise.com to send money from the Philippines to Canada. If you want to load funds to your GCash from Canada, you have the option to use their international banking partners such as Xoom or Remitly. Alternatively, you can use Wise (formerly Transferwise) to get better control of your exchange rates.
Is GCash accepted as a payment method in Canada?
You may be able to use GCash Mastercard for online purchases in Canada. It is the only way to use GCash to make purchases in Canada. Unlike in the Philippines, websites and stores in Canada do not accept GCash. They only accept credit and debit cards (Interac).
How Can You Use GCash in Canada?
- Transfer money to other GCash Users
As long as you have access to your GCash account, you can move your money. You can transfer your money in the account to other GCash users.
- Transfer money to Philippine banks
You can also send your money from your GCash account to Philippine banks. As mentioned earlier, there is no option to send money to a Canadian bank account.
- Buy load for a Philippine prepaid SIM card
Your GCash wallet allows you to use the funds in your account to buy load to any Philippine prepaid SIM account. This includes Globe, Smart, TNT, TM, and other Philippine networks.
- Receive money from Philippine sources
If you need funds in your GCash account, you can easily transfer money from your Philippine bank account. If you no longer have a bank account in the Philippines, you can also receive money from friends and family who have one or from other GCash users.
- Request payment from other Gcash users
If you have a business in the Philippines, you may continue to receive payments using the “Request Payment” feature in GCash. This will allow you to continue your Philippine business even if you are in Canada.
- Pay bills in the Philippines from Canada
If you still have bills left in the Philippines, you can continue to use GCash to pay your bills even if you are abroad. You can pay all types of bills from school tuition to electric bills. Click here for a list of bills accepted in GCash.
- Invest your GCash money
GCash has also been increasing the number of investment features in its app. In 2020, the app started offering fund investment as one of its features. In 2022, GCash announced that it will be adding stock trading as part of its features. For now, you can only buy Philippine stocks. You have the option to buy Global Funds if you want to invest in international stocks.
- Use your GCash Mastercard for international shopping
The GCash Mastercard is not part of the default GCash feature. You will need a fully verified account to use it. Only then will you be able to apply for the Mastercard.