My opinion on AvaTrade
AvaTrade is a well-established global broker (founded in 2006 and serving over 300,000 registered clients worldwide) that offers Canadian traders a secure, IIROC-regulated environment, balancing a comprehensive range of CFDs (forex, indices, stocks, ETFs, commodities, crypto) with advanced features and robust investor protection (CIPF). Competitive but not ultra-tight spreads from 0.9 pips and zero commissions on most CFD trades make AvaTrade cost-effective for most strategies, although traders should note some additional non-trading fees. Its multi-platform offering (MT4/MT5, AvaTradeGO, WebTrader, AvaOptions) and integrated copy trading capabilities (AvaSocial, ZuluTrade, DupliTrade) stand out among Canadian brokers, while a $300 CAD minimum deposit is accessible. Relative to main competitors, AvaTrade delivers a strong blend of regulatory safety and trading tools, with moderately competitive pricing and more local support than most international rivals. Trustpilot reflects overall user satisfaction with a 4.0/5 rating from over 10,400 reviews. According to my experience, AvaTrade is best suited for the following types of traders:
➡️ Traders seeking regulatory safety and Canadian client protection: AvaTrade is fully regulated by IIROC and offers CIPF protection, making it an ideal choice for Canadian residents prioritizing local compliance and fund security.
➡️ Beginner to intermediate traders looking for a guided experience: with copy trading platforms like AvaSocial, ZuluTrade, and DupliTrade, as well as intuitive platforms such as AvaTradeGO and WebTrader, AvaTrade is well-suited for those who prefer an accessible, assisted trading environment.
➡️ Multi-asset traders using MT4/MT5 for diversified CFD strategies: AvaTrade supports over 1,200 instruments across all major asset classes and provides access to automated trading via MetaTrader and AvaOptions, ideal for strategy-focused traders.
- ✅IIROC regulated via Friedberg Direct, with CIPF investor protection for Canadians
- ✅Wide selection of 1,250+ assets: forex, indices, stock CFDs, ETF CFDs, commodities, bonds, options, and 14+ crypto CFDs
- ✅Multiple advanced trading platforms: MT4, MT5, AvaTradeGO, WebTrader, and AvaOptions
- ✅Copy trading available via AvaSocial, ZuluTrade, and DupliTrade
- ✅Competitive variable spreads (EUR/USD from 0.9 pips), no commissions on most CFDs
- ✅No deposit or withdrawal fees from AvaTrade
- ✅User-friendly platforms with advanced charting, risk management, and automated trading (EAs/robots, copy trading)
- ✅Multilingual, responsive customer support available in English and French
- ✅Free demo account with $100,000 virtual funds and extendable duration
- ✅Accessible $300 CAD minimum deposit
- ✅Fast executions and robust security measures
- ❌Inactivity fees: $50 after 3 months, $100 annual admin fee after 12 months
- ❌Only CFD trading on crypto (no spot, staking, lending, or wallet services)
- ❌Overnight (swap) fees apply to leveraged positions
- ❌No Islamic (swap-free) account option for Canadians
- ❌Geographic restrictions on product availability (crypto/CFDs only, no spot assets)
- ❌Limited range of crypto assets (14+ tokens), no stablecoins
- ❌No proprietary social trading platform (copy trading mainly via third parties)
- ❌Wire transfers are the main withdrawal method for Canadian users
- ❌Currency conversion fee of 0.5% may apply
Score- ✅IIROC regulated via Friedberg Direct, with CIPF investor protection for Canadians
- ✅Wide selection of 1,250+ assets: forex, indices, stock CFDs, ETF CFDs, commodities, bonds, options, and 14+ crypto CFDs
- ✅Multiple advanced trading platforms: MT4, MT5, AvaTradeGO, WebTrader, and AvaOptions
- ✅Copy trading available via AvaSocial, ZuluTrade, and DupliTrade
- ✅Competitive variable spreads (EUR/USD from 0.9 pips), no commissions on most CFDs
- ✅No deposit or withdrawal fees from AvaTrade
- ✅User-friendly platforms with advanced charting, risk management, and automated trading (EAs/robots, copy trading)
- ✅Multilingual, responsive customer support available in English and French
- ✅Free demo account with $100,000 virtual funds and extendable duration
- ✅Accessible $300 CAD minimum deposit
- ✅Fast executions and robust security measures
My opinion on AvaTrade
- ✅IIROC regulated via Friedberg Direct, with CIPF investor protection for Canadians
- ✅Wide selection of 1,250+ assets: forex, indices, stock CFDs, ETF CFDs, commodities, bonds, options, and 14+ crypto CFDs
- ✅Multiple advanced trading platforms: MT4, MT5, AvaTradeGO, WebTrader, and AvaOptions
- ✅Copy trading available via AvaSocial, ZuluTrade, and DupliTrade
- ✅Competitive variable spreads (EUR/USD from 0.9 pips), no commissions on most CFDs
- ✅No deposit or withdrawal fees from AvaTrade
- ✅User-friendly platforms with advanced charting, risk management, and automated trading (EAs/robots, copy trading)
- ✅Multilingual, responsive customer support available in English and French
- ✅Free demo account with $100,000 virtual funds and extendable duration
- ✅Accessible $300 CAD minimum deposit
- ✅Fast executions and robust security measures
- ❌Inactivity fees: $50 after 3 months, $100 annual admin fee after 12 months
- ❌Only CFD trading on crypto (no spot, staking, lending, or wallet services)
- ❌Overnight (swap) fees apply to leveraged positions
- ❌No Islamic (swap-free) account option for Canadians
- ❌Geographic restrictions on product availability (crypto/CFDs only, no spot assets)
- ❌Limited range of crypto assets (14+ tokens), no stablecoins
- ❌No proprietary social trading platform (copy trading mainly via third parties)
- ❌Wire transfers are the main withdrawal method for Canadian users
- ❌Currency conversion fee of 0.5% may apply
Score- ✅IIROC regulated via Friedberg Direct, with CIPF investor protection for Canadians
- ✅Wide selection of 1,250+ assets: forex, indices, stock CFDs, ETF CFDs, commodities, bonds, options, and 14+ crypto CFDs
- ✅Multiple advanced trading platforms: MT4, MT5, AvaTradeGO, WebTrader, and AvaOptions
- ✅Copy trading available via AvaSocial, ZuluTrade, and DupliTrade
- ✅Competitive variable spreads (EUR/USD from 0.9 pips), no commissions on most CFDs
- ✅No deposit or withdrawal fees from AvaTrade
- ✅User-friendly platforms with advanced charting, risk management, and automated trading (EAs/robots, copy trading)
- ✅Multilingual, responsive customer support available in English and French
- ✅Free demo account with $100,000 virtual funds and extendable duration
- ✅Accessible $300 CAD minimum deposit
- ✅Fast executions and robust security measures
Why trust Hellosafe?
I invested real time and money to test AvaTrade as a Canadian trader, making sure to cover every step from account opening to live trading on MT4, MT5, and their own mobile app. I actually placed trades on forex, stocks (CFDs), indices, and crypto CFDs, tracking how the spreads, commissions, and order execution performed in different market conditions. I also used the demo account, played with copy trading features, and reached out to customer support to see how responsive and clear the team is.
For my review, I didn’t just look at AvaTrade in isolation—I compared it directly with other brokers regulated in Canada and globally. I wanted to know: is it really safe under Canadian rules (IIROC, CIPF)? Does it suit beginners, or can advanced traders find the tools they need? Where do fees, inactivity charges, and product selection stack up against competitors like Swissquote or fintech apps such as Revolut?
My assessment is based on my actual, hands-on experience—not marketing hype. I noticed that AvaTrade offers a solid regulatory framework for Canadians and a broad array of markets and tools, but has a few drawbacks like spreads that may not always be the absolute lowest, and inactivity fees to be aware of. If you’re looking at AvaTrade , these are the real pros and cons from someone who’s tried it, compared it, and understands the Canadian brokerage landscape.
AvaTrade at a Glance
| Fonctionnalité | Détail |
|---|---|
| 💰 Dépôt minimum | $300 CAD (or $250 USD) |
| 🛡️ Régulation | IIROC (via Friedberg Direct), CIPF protection; also regulated internationally (Ireland, Australia, BVI, Japan, S. Africa) |
| 🪙 Licence crypto | No Canadian crypto licence; crypto trading via CFDs (regulated as derivatives) |
| 📄 Enregistrement FSMA | Not registered with FSMA (Belgium); Canadian and international regulation only |
| 📈 Actifs disponibles | 1,250+ (including 600+ stock CFDs, 50+ forex pairs, 40+ ETF CFDs, indices, commodities, 14+ crypto CFDs, bonds, options) |
| 📊 Plateformes de trading | MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, AvaTradeGO, WebTrader, AvaOptions |
| 🛠 Outils de trading | Advanced charting, automated trading, risk management, one-click trading, copy trading apps |
| 🎮 Compte démo | Yes, 21-day trial (extendable), $100,000 virtual capital |
| ☪️ Compte islamique | Not available for Canadian users |
| 📝 Ordres clés | Market, limit, stop loss, take profit, trailing stop, entry orders |
| ⚖️ Effet de levier | Up to 1:50 (FX); up to 1:20 (indices); up to 1:10 (commodities); up to 1:2 (crypto CFDs) |
| 💸 Frais | No deposit/withdrawal fees (bank fees may apply); inactivity fee: $50/3 months; spreads from 0.9 pips (EUR/USD) |
| 📞 Support client | Phone, live chat, email; Mon–Fri, 24 hours; English & French support |
| 🌟 Avis Trustpilot | 4.0 / 5 (10,400+ reviews, July 2025) |
Security & Regulation
AvaTrade delivers a robust level of security and reliability for Canadian traders by operating through Friedberg Direct, an IIROC-regulated entity that also grants CIPF coverage. This compliance with Canada’s strict financial standards ensures client assets are both well-protected and subject to rigorous oversight—a critical foundation for trust, especially for traders holding sizable balances or engaging in leveraged CFD trading.
Client money is kept in segregated accounts, in line with IIROC norms, minimizing counterparty risk even if the broker experiences difficulties. While AvaTrade does not offer direct crypto storage (crypto is available only via CFDs, not as actual digital assets), its segregation model and lack of exposure to crypto custody risks provide an added measure of safety for those focused on traditional assets. Additionally, AvaTrade offers a suite of risk management tools, including negative balance protection, guaranteed stop-loss orders, and standard features like 2FA, all of which are essential in leveraged trading environments.
AvaTrade benefits from a long-standing, global reputation—enhanced by its international regulatory framework and strong user ratings. User feedback highlights dependable customer service and a smooth platform experience, though fees and spreads can fluctuate during volatile periods. On the whole, I consider AvaTrade especially robust among internationally established, IIROC-compliant brokers in Canada.
| Indicator | Description | Evaluation |
|---|---|---|
| Regulatory compliance | IIROC regulated in Canada via Friedberg Direct; global tier-1 licenses (Ireland, Australia, Japan) | 5 / 5 |
| Fund security | Segregated accounts, CIPF protection, no direct crypto custody risk | 5 / 5 |
| Risk management tools | Negative balance protection, guaranteed stop-loss, 2FA, comprehensive order types | 5 / 5 |
| Notoriety and coverage | Strong global and Canadian reputation, 10,000+ Trustpilot reviews (4.0/5), consistent track record | 5 / 5 |
Fees, Spreads & Commissions
AvaTrade’s fee model is built around commission-free trading for all asset classes, relying instead on variable spreads to monetize its services. For retail forex trading, spreads start at 0.9 pips for EUR/USD—competitive for a globally regulated broker, but not the very tightest in the industry. More volatile pairs such as GBP/USD and EUR/GBP carry slightly wider starting spreads (from 1.5–1.6 pips), which aligns with the upper tier of major regulated brokers. I appreciate that there are no additional commissions on either forex or CFD stock trades, providing a transparent, all-in-one spread-based pricing structure that helps avoid hidden execution costs.
Trading CFDs on stocks, indices, ETFs, and commodities is also commission-free at AvaTrade; the platform builds its costs directly into the spread, which starts at 0.13% for stock CFDs and from 0.25% for cryptocurrency CFDs. These rates are typical in the retail CFD sector, though traders seeking the absolute lowest pricing will still find narrower spreads at certain ECN or raw-spread brokers that charge a separate per-trade commission. The convenience of not paying separate custody or platform fees makes AvaTrade predictable, but spreads can widen moderately during major news events or illiquid periods.
AvaTrade charges no fees for deposits or withdrawals, which removes a common pain point for international clients. However, a $50 inactivity fee applies after three months without activity, ramping up to $100 after a full year—this is more aggressive than many competitors and should be factored in by passive or infrequent traders. Currency conversion adds another layer, with a 0.5% fee applied to any trades or funding in non-account currencies, which is slightly better than the North American industry average but still meaningful for high-volume or global multi-asset traders.
Cryptocurrency CFD trading on AvaTrade is structured similarly: no extra commissions, and spreads starting at 0.25% per side. There are no overnight financing charges (unless a position is held open past the daily cutoff), and no additional custody or transfer fees given all trades are settled as cash CFDs rather than with true tokens. The limitation, from a cost and flexibility perspective, is that users cannot withdraw or deposit cryptocurrencies—making cost comparison less relevant for investors focused on pure crypto holdings.
What are the account-related fees?
| Fee Type | Conditions at AvaTrade | Market Average |
|---|---|---|
| Opening fee | $0 | $0 |
| Maintenance fee | $0 | $0–$100/year |
| Withdrawal fee | $0 (AvaTrade does not charge) | $0–$35 |
| Inactivity fee | $50 after 3 months; $100 after 12 months | $25–$50 after 6–12 months |
| Currency conversion fee | 0.5% | 1.0%–2.0% |
Expert advice | Trip
Be proactive about account activity—if you expect to step away from trading for several months, consider closing or withdrawing your balance to avoid AvaTrade’s inactivity fee, which is among the highest in the industry. Active traders can further reduce their total costs by monitoring spreads during volatile periods and placing trades when liquidity—and thus pricing—is most favorable.
What are the fees on stocks and ETFs?
AvaTrade only offers stocks and ETFs as CFDs, not as direct assets. Trading these CFDs is commission-free, but the spread starts at 0.13% for stocks and around 0.20–0.30% for ETFs. There are no separate overnight or custody fees except for standard CFD financing charges if positions are left open overnight. UK stamp duty tax does not apply since these are synthetic contracts, not actual share purchases.
| Fee Type | Conditions at AvaTrade | Market Average |
|---|---|---|
| Commission | $0 (built into spread) | $0–$10/trade (or 0.1%–0.5%) |
| Spread fee | 0.13%+ on stocks, 0.20%+ on ETFs | 0.10%–0.40% |
| Overnight fee | Yes; per CFD T&Cs (varies) | Yes (typically SOFR+ markup) |
| Custody fee | $0 (not charged for CFDs) | $0–$8/month |
| UK stamp duty tax | $0 (not charged on CFDs) | 0.5% (share purchases only) |
What are the fees on cryptocurrencies?
Crypto trading at AvaTrade is exclusively via CFDs, with no commissions and spreads that begin at 0.25%—a competitive rate compared to both dedicated crypto CFD brokers and spot crypto exchanges after transaction and spread costs are taken into account. No additional custody or transfer fees apply, but the inability to withdraw coins to an external wallet does limit usefulness for pure crypto investors. Overnight fees are charged if you hold crypto CFD positions past the trading day’s close.
| Fee Type | Conditions at AvaTrade | Market Average (crypto or CFD brokers) |
|---|---|---|
| Buy/sell fees | $0 (cost in spread, from 0.25%) | 0%–2% (commission + spread) |
| Spread fees | From 0.25% | 0.2%–1.5% |
| Overnight fees | Yes, varies per instrument | Yes (typically 0.05%–0.2% per day) |
| Custody fees | $0 (CFDs, not physical tokens) | $0–$10/month |
| Transfer fees | $0 (no coin withdrawals supported) | $5–$50 (if external) |
What are the fees on CFDs?
AvaTrade’s CFD offering includes stocks, indices, commodities, and cryptocurrencies. Spreads are in line with the global market for a regulated broker and are fully inclusive—no extra commissions or custody costs. Overnight fees follow standard market rates based on benchmarks (e.g., SOFR + markup), and leverage depends on asset type and IIROC rules.
| Underlying Asset | Maximum Leverage | Spread at AvaTrade | Overnight Fee | Market Average (CFD brokers) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CFD Stocks | 1:5 (typical) | From 0.13% | Yes (varies) | 0.10%–0.40%, SOFR+1-3% o/n |
| Gold (XAU/USD) | 1:10 | From $0.34 | Yes (varies) | $0.30–$0.50, SOFR+1.5% o/n |
| Silver (XAG/USD) | 1:10 | From $0.029 | Yes (varies) | $0.02–$0.05, SOFR+1.5% o/n |
| Oil (WTI) | 1:10 | From $0.03 | Yes (varies) | $0.02–$0.06, SOFR+1.5% o/n |
| EUR/USD | 1:50 | From 0.9 pips | Yes (varies) | 0.7–1.2 pips, SOFR+1% o/n |
| EUR/GBP | 1:20 | From 1.5 pips | Yes (varies) | 1.0–1.8 pips, SOFR+1% o/n |
| USD/JPY | 1:30 | From 1.1 pips | Yes (varies) | 0.8–1.5 pips, SOFR+1% o/n |
| GBP/USD | 1:30 | From 1.6 pips | Yes (varies) | 1.2–1.8 pips, SOFR+1% o/n |
| BEL 20 (BEL20) | 1:10 | From 1.5 | Yes (varies) | 1.0–2.0, SOFR+1.5% o/n |
| BTC/USD (crypto CFD) | 1:2 | From 0.25% | Yes (varies) | 0.2–1.5%, o/n typically 0.05–0.2% |
Assets & Markets
AvaTrade impresses with the diversity and breadth of its CFD product range for Canadian traders. I can access a wide selection of over 1,250 instruments spanning stocks, ETFs, indices, forex, commodities, and cryptocurrencies, all from a single unified platform. The stock and ETF CFD universe stands out in particular, offering exposure to hundreds of leading companies and ETFs—including coverage of Canadian, US, and international blue chips—enabling both sector-based and global trading strategies without direct ownership.
The forex suite is strong, with more than 50 currency pairs, competitive leverage (up to 1:50 for retail clients under IIROC), and integration with MetaTrader 4 and 5 for flexible, algorithm-driven strategies. AvaTrade’s commodity market coverage is also robust, including energy, precious metals, and agricultural products, all available both as spot and derivative contracts. This enables dynamic portfolio hedging and tactical trading regardless of market regime.
The crypto offering provides CFD-based access to 14+ major digital assets, allowing speculation or hedging in both directions and with leverage (up to 1:2). However, I am limited to price speculation: there is no facility for direct spot purchase, physical withdrawal, or features like staking or earn programs. Likewise, stablecoins and NFTs are not supported and there is no facility for direct bond trading—although some bond and option exposure is available through AvaOptions.
Where AvaTrade excels is not just in the raw number of tradable assets, but in execution: the availability of MT4, MT5, AvaTradeGO, and WebTrader ensures seamless access across devices. Built-in copy trading through AvaSocial, DupliTrade, and ZuluTrade adds a further layer for those seeking automated or social trading solutions. The main constraint is that all assets other than FX are offered as CFDs, which may not suit long-term holders or those seeking dividend rights and direct underlying ownership.
| Asset Class | Type | Number at AvaTrade | Market Average | Example Assets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stocks | CFD | 600+ | 500–2,500 | Apple CFD, Shopify CFD, RBC CFD, Tesla CFD |
| ETFs | CFD | 40+ | 20–100 | SPY CFD, QQQ CFD, TSX 60 ETF CFD |
| Cryptocurrencies | CFD | 14+ | 10–50 | Bitcoin CFD, Ethereum CFD, XRP CFD, Litecoin CFD |
| Currencies | Spot FX (CFD) | 50+ | 30–100 | EUR/USD, USD/CAD, GBP/JPY, AUD/USD |
| Commodities | CFD | 20+ | 10–30 | Gold CFD, WTI Oil CFD, Silver CFD, Coffee CFD |
| Indices | CFD | 30+ | 20–70 | S&P 500 CFD, TSX 60 CFD, NASDAQ 100 CFD, DAX CFD |
| Bonds | Options/CFD | Select (via AvaOptions) | 5–50 | US 10yr option, Bund option (via AvaOptions) |
| Stablecoins | – | Not available | 2–10 | – |
| NFTs | – | Not available | 5–20 | – |
| Other derivatives | Options | Wide (via AvaOptions) | 10–100+ | FX vanilla options, index options |
Trading Tools and Apps
AvaTrade delivers a broad platform suite designed to accommodate both new and advanced Canadian traders, with an emphasis on choice and flexibility. The availability of MetaTrader 4 and 5, AvaTradeGO, WebTrader, and AvaOptions ensures that traders can access a familiar interface or experiment with a variety of tools tailored to different asset classes and strategies. The onboarding flow across mobile and web platforms is clear, with essential functions, asset classes, and support materials accessible from the first login.
MetaTrader 4 and 5 remain the foundation for technical traders, providing professional charting, rich order management, and support for automated trading via Expert Advisors (EAs) and scripts. Both platforms allow for advanced back testing and the installation of custom bots, which are essential for users who want to automate FX or CFD trading. AvaTrade further supports strategy diversification with AvaOptions (options trading), while AvaTradeGO stands out for mobile investing, combining account management, market navigation, order entry, and trading signals in a streamlined app.
Charting across all platforms is robust, offering a wide selection of built-in indicators, drawing tools, and the ability to set up multi-timeframe analysis or price alerts. WebTrader and AvaTradeGO mirror many of these functions for traders who prefer browser-based or mobile solutions without sacrificing usability. Conditional and risk management orders (stop-loss, take-profit, trailing stop) are easily managed across every platform.
One major advantage is AvaTrade’s commitment to automation and copy trading—besides MetaTrader’s automation capabilities, traders can connect to DupliTrade, ZuluTrade, or the broker’s own AvaSocial platform, making it straightforward to follow or replicate the trades of experienced investors. This ecosystem extends to both manual and semi-automated approaches, elevating accessibility for users who prioritize either guidance or hands-off trading.
AvaTrade’s platforms offer streamlined asset search for CFDs on stocks, indices, commodities, forex pairs, and crypto, but spot stock purchase or direct crypto wallets are not available. All crypto trading is via CFDs, with no options for native staking or earning. Security features, such as negative balance protection and two-factor authentication, reinforce AvaTrade’s suitability for clients operating under Canadian regulation.
| Feature | Verified Details |
|---|---|
| Mobile app | AvaTradeGO, MetaTrader 4/5 (iOS/Android), no TradingView, no crypto wallet app |
| Usability | Intuitive layout, fast execution, clear risk tools, well documented across platforms |
| Compatible software | MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, WebTrader, AvaTradeGO, AvaOptions, DupliTrade, ZuluTrade, AvaSocial |
| Order types | Market, limit, stop-loss, take-profit, trailing stop, entry orders (OCO and conditional supported) |
| Charting and technical analysis | 30+ built-in indicators, drawing tools; advanced technical analysis in MT4/MT5; limited on AvaTradeGO |
| Auto trading / Automated strategies | Fully supported through EAs, bots, and integrations with DupliTrade, ZuluTrade, and AvaSocial |
| Algorithmic trading | Custom scripts, coded EAs (in MT4/5), platform supports semi-automated and copy strategies |
| Negative balance protection | Yes, IIROC regulated for Canadians, applicable to CFD/forex |
| Trading signals | AvaTradeGO, ZuluTrade and integrated third-party tools across platforms |
| Asset search and filters | Quick symbol lookup, asset category tiles, custom watchlists in all trading apps |
| Spot stock purchase | Not available; stock and ETF trading are CFDs only |
| Staking and earn | Not available; no native staking or crypto earning features |
Trip
Use AvaTrade’s demo account to compare MetaTrader and AvaTradeGO interfaces for your preferred instruments and order types. Experiment with automated trading and copy trading tools in a risk-free environment before going live, and always activate two-factor authentication to secure your account.
Account Opening & Deposits
Account opening
Opening an account on AvaTrade is a streamlined digital process for Canadian users. Start by completing the online registration form, providing your basic personal, financial, and contact information. The next step is identity verification: upload a government-issued photo ID, proof of address (such as a recent utility bill or bank statement), and, if requested, a bank statement. You'll then fill out a short regulatory questionnaire to determine your trading experience and suitability, in compliance with IIROC rules. Once you've submitted your documents, the AvaTrade team will review your application. Validation is typically completed within 1–2 business days, though it can take longer during busy periods. As soon as your account is approved, you’ll receive a confirmation email with login instructions and details for your first deposit.
Good to know
Be sure to select your preferred base currency (CAD or USD) during registration. This choice can help you reduce future conversion fees and streamline your trading experience.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Opening procedure | Online registration, KYC verification, regulatory questionnaire, document upload |
| Validation time | 1–2 business days (may be longer during peak periods) |
| Accepted deposit methods | Credit/debit card, wire transfer |
| Minimum required deposit | $300 CAD (or $250 USD) |
| Required documents | Government-issued photo ID, proof of address, possibly a bank statement |
| Practical tip | Ensure all documents are clear, legible, and match the details provided in your application |
Deposits and withdrawals on AvaTrade
You can fund your AvaTrade account using credit/debit cards or wire transfers, with deposits accepted in CAD or USD, depending on your chosen base currency. Card deposits are processed instantly, while wire transfers typically take 1–3 business days to arrive. There are no deposit fees from AvaTrade, but your bank or payment provider may charge their own fees, especially for wire transfers. Withdrawals for Canadian users are processed primarily through wire transfer, also taking 1–3 business days. No withdrawal fees are charged by AvaTrade itself, but external banking fees can apply. AvaTrade does not currently support deposits or withdrawals via e-wallets, stablecoins, or cryptos for Canadian accounts, and doesn't provide a personal crypto wallet or fiat-to-crypto conversion—crypto trading is exclusively via CFDs on the trading platform.
Good to know
Double-check your bank details for withdrawals to avoid delays and return fees. Also, confirm your account’s base currency before initiating a deposit, as conversion fees may apply.
| Payment method | Accepted currencies | Minimum amount | Processing time | Possible fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit card | CAD, USD | $300 CAD | Instant | None from AvaTrade; card issuer fees may apply |
| Bank transfer | CAD, USD | $300 CAD | 1–3 business days | None from AvaTrade; bank fees possible |
| E-wallets | Not available | – | – | – |
| Stablecoins/cryptos | Not available | – | – | – |
| Other local options | Not available | – | – | – |
Account Types
AvaTrade is a globally recognized CFD and forex broker operating in Canada through Friedberg Direct, making it fully IIROC-regulated and CIPF-protected for Canadian residents. It caters to both new and experienced traders by offering a range of account types, advanced trading platforms (including MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, WebTrader, AvaTradeGO, and AvaOptions), and access to a wide array of CFDs on forex, stocks, indices, commodities, and cryptocurrencies. While AvaTrade’s core is CFD trading, it also offers features such as demo accounts and copy trading. Accounts are easy to open online, with a minimum deposit starting at $300 CAD, but users should note that tax-advantaged and classic securities accounts are not supported, and crypto services are limited to CFDs.
| Account type | Available (✅/❌) | Main features |
|---|---|---|
| Demo account | ✅ | 21-day trial, simulated trading with $100,000 virtual funds |
| Standard account | ✅ | $300 CAD minimum deposit, trade all available CFDs, full platform access |
| Raw ECN account | ❌ | Not available; all trades executed through AvaTrade’s own model |
| Islamic account | ❌ | Not explicitly available for Canadian users |
| Professional account | ✅ | Intended for active traders meeting regulatory requirements, higher leverage, tailored terms |
| CFD account | ✅ | Primary offering; access to forex, stocks, commodities, indices, and crypto CFDs |
| Classic securities account | ❌ | Not supported; only CFD trading available |
| Staking/earn account | ❌ | Not available; crypto exposure is via CFDs, not physical tokens |
| Cold storage account | ❌ | Not available; no direct or custodial crypto solutions |
| Tax-advantaged account | ❌ | Not available; no RRSP, TFSA, or similar Canadian registered accounts |
| Accepted base currencies | CAD, USD | Choose between CAD or USD for funding and trading |
Trip
If you’re just getting started or want to explore AvaTrade’s platforms and product range without risk, try the demo account first. Active or professional traders should review eligibility for the Professional account to take advantage of increased leverage and tailored trading conditions.
How does AvaTrade compare to competitors?
| Feature | AvaTrade | Swissquote | Trade Republic | Revolut |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum deposit | $10,000 USD | €1 | No minimum | |
| Number of instruments | Extensive (Stocks, ETFs, Forex, CFDs, Options) | Thousands (Stocks, ETFs, Bonds, Crypto) | 2,000+ Stocks, 230+ Crypto, 30+ Currencies | |
| Spreads (examples) | From 1.1 pips (EUR/USD), 2.0 pips (USD/JPY) | €1 flat fee (stocks/ETFs), no forex | 0.4% FX markup, 1.5% for crypto purchases | |
| Trading platforms | Advanced Trader, MT4, MT5, TradingView | Mobile & Web App only | Mobile & Web App, Revolut X (Crypto) | |
| Regulation | FINMA (Switzerland), not regulated in Canada | Not regulated or available in Canada | Not regulated for trading in Canada | |
| Demo account | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | |
| Copy trading | ✅ (MAM/PAMM) | ❌ | ❌ | |
| Read the review | Read the review Swissquote | Read the review Trade Republic | Read the review Revolut |
Customer reviews
AvaTrade has a Trustpilot rating of 4.0 out of 5, based on more than 10,433 reviews. Les utilisateurs mettent en avant plusieurs aspects positifs de la plateforme, notamment :
- Simple and user-friendly trading platforms (MT4, MT5, AvaTradeGO)
- Responsive and helpful customer support
- Wide selection of forex, stock CFDs, commodities, indices, and crypto CFDs
- Comprehensive educational resources for all levels
- Smooth and reliable withdrawal process
- Strong copy trading options (AvaSocial, DupliTrade, ZuluTrade)
En revanche, plusieurs points négatifs sont régulièrement évoqués dans les avis :
- Spreads can increase noticeably during periods of high market volatility
- Inactivity and administration fees after long periods without trading
- Limited range of cryptocurrencies compared to larger global competitors
- Some users report platform delays or technical hiccups during busy market hours
- Swap-free (Islamic) account options less clearly available for Canadian users
Voici quelques exemples représentatifs d’avis publiés sur Trustpilot :
- j.P. – 14/06/2025 : “Great platform, easy to use and customer service is very responsive.”
- i.S. – 28/05/2025 : “Withdrawal process was smooth, but spreads can be a bit high during volatile times.”
- r.T. – 07/05/2025 : “I appreciate the educational resources, but would like to see more crypto options.”
FAQ
Is AvaTrade regulated in CA?
AvaTrade operates in Canada through a partnership with Friedberg Direct, which is fully regulated by the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada (IIROC) and is a member of the Canadian Investor Protection Fund (CIPF). This provides an added layer of investor protection and compliance with Canadian financial regulations.
What is the minimum deposit on AvaTrade?
The minimum deposit required to open an AvaTrade account in Canada is $300 CAD for a CAD-denominated account or $250 USD for a USD-denominated account. There are no deposit fees, and funds can be added via wire transfer or credit/debit card, with processing times depending on the method used.
Does AvaTrade offer a welcome bonus?
AvaTrade may offer welcome bonuses or special deposit promotions to new clients from time to time, but such offers are subject to regulatory approval and may not always be available for Canadian residents. Traders should check the official website for current promotions and their terms.
How does leverage work on AvaTrade?
Leverage at AvaTrade for Canadian clients is determined by IIROC regulations. For major forex pairs, leverage is up to 1:50; for indices, it’s typically up to 1:20; for commodities up to 1:10; and for cryptocurrencies up to 1:2. Leverage enables traders to control larger positions with less capital but also increases risk.
How does AvaTrade make money?
AvaTrade earns money primarily through the spreads on forex and CFD trades, as well as through overnight financing costs on leveraged positions. Some copy trading services may also include performance fees. AvaTrade does not charge commissions on most assets but does have inactive account fees.
Who is behind AvaTrade?
AvaTrade was founded in 2006 and is owned by the Ava Group. In Canada, it operates via Friedberg Direct, a division of Friedberg Mercantile Group Ltd., a well-established broker that provides regulated financial services nationwide.
When was AvaTrade launched?
AvaTrade was established in 2006 as a global forex and CFD broker. It began offering services to Canadian residents through its partnership with Friedberg Direct under IIROC regulation several years later.
Does AvaTrade offer copy trading or social trading?
Yes, AvaTrade offers several copy trading and social trading options, including AvaSocial (the proprietary app) and integration with third-party services like DupliTrade and ZuluTrade. These tools allow traders to follow and automatically replicate the strategies of experienced investors.
How can I contact AvaTrade’s customer service?
AvaTrade’s customer support for Canadian clients is available via phone, live chat on the website, or email through an online form. Assistance is provided 24 hours a day during the trading week, in both English and French.
Does AvaTrade offer any promotions or referral programs?
AvaTrade sometimes offers referral rewards and other promotions, but their availability depends on regulatory approval and the region. Canadian traders should consult the AvaTrade website or reach out to customer service for the latest information on eligible referral programs and bonuses.
Does AvaTrade provide insurance or proof-of-reserve for customer funds?
Client cash held in trading accounts with AvaTrade (via Friedberg Direct) is protected by the Canadian Investor Protection Fund (CIPF), which offers limited coverage in case of brokerage insolvency. AvaTrade does not provide proof-of-reserve for crypto CFDs since physical cryptocurrency holdings are not involved.
Is AvaTrade regulated in CA?
AvaTrade operates in Canada through a partnership with Friedberg Direct, which is fully regulated by the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada (IIROC) and is a member of the Canadian Investor Protection Fund (CIPF). This provides an added layer of investor protection and compliance with Canadian financial regulations.
What is the minimum deposit on AvaTrade?
The minimum deposit required to open an AvaTrade account in Canada is $300 CAD for a CAD-denominated account or $250 USD for a USD-denominated account. There are no deposit fees, and funds can be added via wire transfer or credit/debit card, with processing times depending on the method used.
Does AvaTrade offer a welcome bonus?
AvaTrade may offer welcome bonuses or special deposit promotions to new clients from time to time, but such offers are subject to regulatory approval and may not always be available for Canadian residents. Traders should check the official website for current promotions and their terms.
How does leverage work on AvaTrade?
Leverage at AvaTrade for Canadian clients is determined by IIROC regulations. For major forex pairs, leverage is up to 1:50; for indices, it’s typically up to 1:20; for commodities up to 1:10; and for cryptocurrencies up to 1:2. Leverage enables traders to control larger positions with less capital but also increases risk.
How does AvaTrade make money?
AvaTrade earns money primarily through the spreads on forex and CFD trades, as well as through overnight financing costs on leveraged positions. Some copy trading services may also include performance fees. AvaTrade does not charge commissions on most assets but does have inactive account fees.
Who is behind AvaTrade?
AvaTrade was founded in 2006 and is owned by the Ava Group. In Canada, it operates via Friedberg Direct, a division of Friedberg Mercantile Group Ltd., a well-established broker that provides regulated financial services nationwide.
When was AvaTrade launched?
AvaTrade was established in 2006 as a global forex and CFD broker. It began offering services to Canadian residents through its partnership with Friedberg Direct under IIROC regulation several years later.
Does AvaTrade offer copy trading or social trading?
Yes, AvaTrade offers several copy trading and social trading options, including AvaSocial (the proprietary app) and integration with third-party services like DupliTrade and ZuluTrade. These tools allow traders to follow and automatically replicate the strategies of experienced investors.
How can I contact AvaTrade’s customer service?
AvaTrade’s customer support for Canadian clients is available via phone, live chat on the website, or email through an online form. Assistance is provided 24 hours a day during the trading week, in both English and French.
Does AvaTrade offer any promotions or referral programs?
AvaTrade sometimes offers referral rewards and other promotions, but their availability depends on regulatory approval and the region. Canadian traders should consult the AvaTrade website or reach out to customer service for the latest information on eligible referral programs and bonuses.
Does AvaTrade provide insurance or proof-of-reserve for customer funds?
Client cash held in trading accounts with AvaTrade (via Friedberg Direct) is protected by the Canadian Investor Protection Fund (CIPF), which offers limited coverage in case of brokerage insolvency. AvaTrade does not provide proof-of-reserve for crypto CFDs since physical cryptocurrency holdings are not involved.
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