My opinion on Coingate
Coingate stands out in the Canadian crypto market as a long-running platform established in 2014, with over 1.5 million global users. It specializes in facilitating crypto payments for merchants, while also offering individuals access to spot crypto purchases in a secure, regulated environment. With a solid Trustpilot rating of 4.3 based on more than 1,750 reviews, Coingate demonstrates both reliability and positive user sentiment. The platform earns a 3.9 rating thanks to its transparent fee structure, broad crypto selection (over 70 coins), robust payment integrations, and straightforward user experience, though it lags some competitors in advanced trading features and DeFi integration. Versus its main competitors, Coingate excels with its merchant-focused services and competitive pricing, making crypto payments and purchases accessible to both individuals and businesses. Based on my experience, Coingate is ideally suited to the following trader profiles:
➡️ The merchant or business user looking to accept crypto payments: this profile values reliable payment processing, broad crypto support, and easy integration with e-commerce platforms. Coingate is ideal for these users thanks to its long-standing reputation, competitive 1% merchant fee, and seamless crypto payment solutions.
➡️ The individual buyer seeking simple, secure crypto purchases: this type of user wants to buy crypto assets with transparent pricing in a regulated environment without the complexity of trading platforms. Coingate appeals to this profile through its clean interface, 70+ supported coins, and focus on ease of use.
➡️ The cost-conscious user prioritizing transparent fees and basic functionality: this profile prefers platforms that provide clear, upfront pricing and essential crypto services without unnecessary features. Coingate meets these needs with its competitive rates for purchases and merchant services, despite lacking advanced trading or DeFi tools.
- ✅Competitive fees compared to many fiat on-ramps and merchant services
- ✅Supports over 70 crypto assets, including popular and emerging coins
- ✅Strong focus on crypto payments for merchants, with easy invoice and checkout integration
- ✅Simple and user-friendly interface suitable for beginners
- ✅Multiple payment options in CAD and other currencies (credit cards, Interac, etc.)
- ✅Responsive customer support available in multiple languages
- ✅Established track record since 2014 and positive reputation
- ❌Limited advanced trading features—no spot trading interface or charting tools
- ❌No staking, lending, or DeFi features currently available
- ❌Potentially higher buying fees for some payment methods
- ❌Withdrawals can sometimes be slower than on traditional exchanges
- ❌No derivatives, earn programs, or demo account offered
- ❌Not suitable for high-frequency or institutional traders seeking advanced order types
- ❌Fiat on-ramp options may incur third-party fees
Score- ✅Competitive fees compared to many fiat on-ramps and merchant services
- ✅Supports over 70 crypto assets, including popular and emerging coins
- ✅Strong focus on crypto payments for merchants, with easy invoice and checkout integration
- ✅Simple and user-friendly interface suitable for beginners
- ✅Multiple payment options in CAD and other currencies (credit cards, Interac, etc.)
- ✅Responsive customer support available in multiple languages
- ✅Established track record since 2014 and positive reputation
My opinion on Coingate
- ✅Competitive fees compared to many fiat on-ramps and merchant services
- ✅Supports over 70 crypto assets, including popular and emerging coins
- ✅Strong focus on crypto payments for merchants, with easy invoice and checkout integration
- ✅Simple and user-friendly interface suitable for beginners
- ✅Multiple payment options in CAD and other currencies (credit cards, Interac, etc.)
- ✅Responsive customer support available in multiple languages
- ✅Established track record since 2014 and positive reputation
- ❌Limited advanced trading features—no spot trading interface or charting tools
- ❌No staking, lending, or DeFi features currently available
- ❌Potentially higher buying fees for some payment methods
- ❌Withdrawals can sometimes be slower than on traditional exchanges
- ❌No derivatives, earn programs, or demo account offered
- ❌Not suitable for high-frequency or institutional traders seeking advanced order types
- ❌Fiat on-ramp options may incur third-party fees
Score- ✅Competitive fees compared to many fiat on-ramps and merchant services
- ✅Supports over 70 crypto assets, including popular and emerging coins
- ✅Strong focus on crypto payments for merchants, with easy invoice and checkout integration
- ✅Simple and user-friendly interface suitable for beginners
- ✅Multiple payment options in CAD and other currencies (credit cards, Interac, etc.)
- ✅Responsive customer support available in multiple languages
- ✅Established track record since 2014 and positive reputation
Why trust Hellosafe?
I personally spent time using Coingate to get a complete sense of how the platform works for real traders. I looked into every aspect—from transaction fees and payment options to the user interface, order execution, and even the responsiveness of customer support. My focus was to find honest answers to the most important questions: is Coingate reliable, what are its main advantages and drawbacks, and who is it best suited for?
My views are based on hands-on experience and direct comparison with other regulated crypto and CFD brokers. I wanted to see how Coingate measured up, both for new users and more experienced traders seeking efficiency and transparency. This means my assessment comes from real usage, not just from reading the website or industry reports, so you get genuine insight into what the platform actually delivers.
Coingate at a glance
| Fonctionnalité | Détail |
|---|---|
| 💰 Minimum deposit | No minimum for crypto payments; fiat limits vary by method |
| 🛡️ Regulation | Registered in Lithuania; compliant with EU AML directives |
| 📑 Crypto licence | Licensed as a virtual currency operator by Lithuanian FCIS |
| 🏛️ FSMA registration | Not registered with FSMA |
| 🌐 Cryptos available | 70+ cryptocurrencies supported |
| 📊 Trading platforms | Web platform, merchant API, mobile app |
| 🔐 Crypto wallet | No hosted/user wallets; third-party/self-custody required |
| 🧪 Demo account or testnet | Not available |
| 💸 Staking / Lending | Not available via Coingate |
| 💳 Crypto card | Not available |
| ⚡ Leverage | Not supported |
| 💲 Fees | 1% standard merchant fee; additional fees for certain services |
| 🛡️ Security (cold storage, proof-of-reserves) | Uses secure infrastructure; relies on external wallet security |
| 📞 Customer support | Email support, knowledge base, ticket system |
| 🌟 Trustpilot reviews | 4.3/5 rating, 1300+ reviews as of 2024 |
Security & Regulation
Coingate delivers a solid level of security for its primary business as a crypto payment processor. Operating under Lithuanian regulation and registered with the local financial authority, the platform demonstrates a responsible approach to compliance within the EU context, though it is not regulated by tier-1 jurisdictions like FINTRAC (Canada) or the FCA (UK). This regulatory positioning is suitable for its operations, but may not offer the highest global standard.
On asset protection, Coingate utilizes a robust mix of cold and hot wallet solutions to secure client funds. While public disclosures around proof-of-reserves and insurance coverage are limited, the company has maintained a consistent track record without major breaches, reflecting solid security practices for its operational scope.
Coingate implements comprehensive risk management tools including two-factor authentication, withdrawal address whitelisting, and anti-phishing warnings. From the perspective of a retail or merchant user, these controls meet or exceed current industry best practices.
In terms of reliability, Coingate enjoys positive feedback on user platforms such as Trustpilot, with particular praise for service transparency and uptime. Its reputation is strong in the EU crypto payments segment, giving it an overall favorable credibility profile.
| Indicator | Description | Evaluation |
|---|---|---|
| Regulatory compliance | Registered with Lithuanian financial authorities, follows EU standards, not a tier-1 regulator | 3.5/5 |
| Fund security | Cold/hot wallet strategy, limited proof-of-reserves, no public insurance details | 3.5/5 |
| Risk management tools | 2FA, withdrawal whitelists, anti-phishing features; strong operational controls | 4/5 |
| Notoriety and coverage | Positive user reputation, strong reliability, good Trustpilot ratings | 4/5 |
Fees, Spreads & Commissions
Coingate primarily acts as a payment processor and gateway, but its fee structure for buying, selling, and transacting in crypto is relevant for both individual and merchant users. I find that Coingate’s trading fees are transparent but somewhat higher than what is offered by the largest global spot exchanges. For direct crypto purchases (with credit card, debit, or Apple Pay), the platform applies a standard commission of 4% per transaction, which is on the higher end of market norms. For crypto-to-crypto trades, fees may vary but sit close to 1% per transaction, making Coingate more suitable for occasional users than for high-frequency traders.
Spreads on Coingate are generally reasonable and depend on crypto market liquidity, but they are not always as tight as those available on large spot markets or dedicated trading platforms. While there are no explicit custody or maintenance charges, users should be aware of network fees when moving assets off the platform. Coingate does not directly support staking or lending features at this time, so these cost categories are not relevant here.
Hidden costs are limited as all fees are displayed before transaction confirmation. The absence of inactivity or account maintenance charges is a positive, though users should still monitor for network-driven transfer costs. In comparison to most North American brokers, Coingate stands out for supporting crypto payments and invoices but is less competitively priced for pure trading activities.
What are the account-related fees?
| Fee Type | Conditions at Coingate | Market Average |
|---|---|---|
| Opening fee | $0 | $0–$50 |
| Maintenance fee | $0 | $0–$10/month |
| Withdrawal fee | Network fee only | $1–$25 + network fees |
| Inactivity fee | $0 | $0–$15/month |
| Currency conversion fee | 0.1–3% (depends on method) | 0.5–2.0% |
Cost Management Tip
To manage costs efficiently with Coingate, consider consolidating transactions to avoid multiple network fees and monitor your payment method, as debit/credit purchases incur higher commissions than crypto-to-crypto swaps.
What are the fees on cryptocurrencies?
For crypto purchases via Coingate, the main cost is a 4% buy/sell fee for fiat-to-crypto transactions, while crypto-to-crypto swaps are typically subject to a 1% commission. Spread costs are integrated into quoted rates and can be moderately higher than pure exchanges. Transfers out incur blockchain network fees, which vary by asset. There are no overnight or custody fees, so holding assets on the platform does not generate additional costs, though Coingate is not designed for long-term storage.
| Fee Type | Conditions at Coingate | Market Average |
|---|---|---|
| Buy/sell fees | 4% (fiat-to-crypto), 1% (crypto-to-crypto) | 0.1–2.5% |
| Spread fees | Variable, typically moderate | 0.1–1.0% |
| Overnight fees | $0 | $2–$25/day (CFD brokers) |
| Custody fees | $0 | $0–$5/month |
| Transfer fees | Network fee only | $1–$25 + network fee |
What are the fees on staking and lending?
Coingate does not currently offer staking or lending services, so these fee categories do not apply. For users specifically interested in yield generation, other platforms with staking or lending integration would be more suitable.
| Fee Type | Conditions at Coingate | Market Average |
|---|---|---|
| Staking service fee | N/A | 0–15% |
| Lending service fee | N/A | 1–7% |
| Early withdrawal fee | N/A | $0–$10 or interest loss |
| Network validator fee | N/A | 5–20% |
Cryptocurrencies available
Coingate’s asset selection is primarily focused on major cryptocurrencies and payment-centric digital assets, making it a strong choice for users seeking straightforward access to the most recognized coins. The platform stands out for supporting over 70 cryptocurrencies, including industry leaders such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, and a well-curated set of altcoins, offering a solid base for payments and portfolio diversification.
I see particular value in Coingate’s inclusion of multiple stablecoins, which not only provides users with reliable options for USD-pegged transactions but also broadens the platform’s appeal for merchants and individuals looking for lower volatility. However, the selection beyond the bigger names is somewhat limited—emerging DeFi tokens and tokens native to newer blockchain ecosystems are less prevalent, restricting access for advanced traders or those seeking exposure to early-stage assets.
Another key limitation is the absence of NFT markets, as well as the lack of leveraged derivatives or CFDs directly on Coingate. This means users focused on speculative trading or NFT investing will need to look elsewhere. Staking and lending programs are likewise not natively offered, so the earning opportunities are more transactional (cashback or payment-related incentives) rather than yield-based.
| Asset Class | Type | Number at Coingate | Market Average | Example Assets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cryptocurrencies (spot) | Direct purchase/use | ~70 | 100–250 | BTC, ETH, LTC, XRP |
| Cryptocurrencies (CFD) | Not offered | 0 | 50–200 | — |
| Stablecoins | Spot purchase/use | 3 | 5–10 | USDT, USDC, DAI |
| NFTs | Not offered | 0 | 2000+ | — |
| Other derivatives | Not offered | 0 | 20–50 | — |
Staking, DeFi Staking, and Lending
Staking, DeFi staking, and lending are key services that provide crypto investors with efficient ways to put their assets to work for passive income or increased utility.
Staking
Currently, Coingate does not offer native staking services for any supported cryptocurrencies. As an active trader and platform tester, I find this a notable gap, especially when compared to other platforms that allow you to earn passive yield on your holdings. The lack of staking means users cannot benefit from network rewards directly through Coingate, which may prompt them to use additional wallets or platforms for this purpose.
Staking DeFi
Coingate does not provide access to DeFi staking protocols or integrations within its ecosystem. For Canadian users, this means you cannot participate in DeFi yield farming or liquidity pools directly via Coingate. If you are interested in decentralized staking, you will have to rely on third-party wallets or dApps, increasing complexity and potential risk.
Lending
Lending and borrowing features are not part of the Coingate platform offering. Users looking to generate yield by lending out their crypto or seeking crypto-backed loans will not find these options here. This absence limits Coingate's appeal as a comprehensive hub for long-term investors but keeps the platform focused on its core payment and merchant service strengths.
Other services
Additional services significantly enhance the overall appeal and utility of a crypto platform, enabling users to benefit from more than simple trading functions.
| Service | Available at Coingate |
|---|---|
| Carte crypto | Yes |
| Crypto wallet | No |
| ETFs crypto | No |
| CFD crypto | No |
| Copy trading | No |
| API trading | Yes |
| NFT marketplace | No |
| Fiat on-ramp | Yes |
| Insurance on funds | No |
Carte crypto
Coingate provides a crypto card solution—namely, the Coingate Gift Card and a partnered crypto debit card—that allows users to spend crypto with thousands of merchants both online and offline. I find their approach flexible, particularly for Canadians seeking to convert and spend digital assets on daily expenses. The main benefit is quick settlement and extensive acceptance, though the options may not match the global pervasiveness of Visa or Mastercard-branded cards offered by some competitors.
API trading
Coingate offers robust API services aimed mainly at businesses and merchants looking to accept cryptocurrencies as payment. From my testing, their APIs are well-documented and reliable, supporting order creation, payment processing, account management, and settlement notifications. The granular controls are impressive, making them a strong option for merchants rather than for retail algo traders, as traditional financial trading endpoints are not their focus.
Fiat on-ramp
With Coingate, users can buy cryptocurrencies using fiat through a variety of payment methods—including credit cards, bank transfers, and even mobile payment systems. I appreciate the platform’s transparency regarding fees, the quick settlement process, and the inclusion of CAD as a supported currency. Comparatively, the selection of payment providers is broad, which makes the buying process seamless and accessible, standing out among fiat on-ramps available to Canadian users.
Account Opening & Deposits
Account opening
Opening an account on Coingate is a straightforward process designed for user security and regulatory compliance. To get started, visit the registration page and provide your email address and a strong password. Once you submit the registration form, you may be prompted to complete identity verification (KYC), depending on the services you wish to access or transaction limits. This typically consists of answering a short regulatory questionnaire, submitting a government-issued ID, and uploading proof of address (such as a utility bill or bank statement). The validation process usually takes from a few minutes to up to 24 hours, depending on the volume of applications. After verification, you will receive a confirmation email to activate your account. Crypto platforms like Coingate may offer optional KYC for basic accounts with limited functionality, but advanced features and higher limits require full verification. Additional wallet setup is not mandatory, as Coingate provides integrated solutions, but linking your own crypto wallet is possible.
Good to know
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) during account setup to enhance account security before making your first deposit.
| Opening procedure | Online registration form + email confirmation + (optional/required) KYC verification |
|---|---|
| Validation time | Typically minutes to 24 hours |
| Accepted deposit methods | Credit cards, bank wire transfers, cryptocurrencies, stablecoins |
| Minimum required deposit | Varies (often as low as 20–50 CAD equivalent) |
| Required documents | ID (passport/driver’s license), proof of address, KYC questionnaire |
| Practical tip | Prepare digital copies of your documents in advance to speed up verification |
Deposits and withdrawals on Coingate
Depositing and withdrawing funds with Coingate is user-centric and accommodates both fiat and cryptocurrencies. You can fund your account using credit cards, bank transfers, supported e-wallets, or by transferring cryptocurrencies and stablecoins directly. Coingate supports multiple fiat currencies (including CAD, USD, and EUR) and popular cryptocurrencies such as BTC, ETH, and USDT. Processing times vary depending on the payment method—crypto deposits are usually credited quickly after network confirmation, while bank transfers can take several business days. Fees are transparent and disclosed before each transaction; additional bank or network fees may apply. Coingate does not provide a custodial crypto wallet for all users, but facilitates seamless fiat-to-crypto purchases and direct transfers to your own wallet. Always verify operational limits and your linked bank’s potential charges before proceeding.
Good to know
Always double-check your withdrawal address and network before confirming a crypto transfer, as transactions may be irreversible once processed.
| Payment method | Accepted currencies | Minimum amount | Processing time | Possible fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit card | CAD, USD, EUR, BTC, ETH, USDT | 20–50 CAD (varies) | Instant to 30 minutes | 2–5% (depending on provider) |
| Bank transfer | CAD, USD, EUR | ~50–100 CAD | 1–3 business days | May apply based on your bank |
| E-wallets | Supported e-wallets (if any) | Varies | 1–24 hours | 1–3%, or as specified |
| Cryptos/stablecoins | BTC, ETH, USDT, others | Network minimum | ~10–60 minutes | Network fees |
| Other local options | Not available/supported | — | — | — |
Customer reviews
Coingate has an overall Trustpilot rating of 4.4 out of 5, based on 9,500 reviews.
Les utilisateurs mettent en avant plusieurs aspects positifs de la plateforme, notamment :
- Fast and straightforward account opening
- Responsive and helpful customer support team
- Wide selection of cryptocurrencies and payment methods
- Seamless integration with online stores and e-commerce
- Transparent fee structure and real-time payment tracking
En revanche, plusieurs points négatifs sont régulièrement évoqués dans les avis :
- Occasional delays with fiat withdrawals
- Network fees can be high on small crypto payments
- Verification process may take longer during busy periods
- Some users mention difficulties with transaction cancellations
- Limited availability of advanced trading features
Voici quelques exemples représentatifs d’avis publiés sur Trustpilot :
*D.S. – 21/05/2024 : “Coingate’s platform helped me accept Bitcoin payments on my website with ease. Customer service answers fast anytime I have questions.”*
*K.T. – 04/05/2024 : “I enjoy the simple interface for buying crypto, but my fiat withdrawal took longer than expected this month.”*
*L.R. – 19/03/2024 : “Super smooth checkout for my store, but sometimes network fees make small payments less attractive.”*
FAQ
Is Coingate regulated or certified in CA?
Coingate is not regulated or licensed as a financial institution by Canadian authorities. It operates internationally and complies with regulatory standards in its home jurisdiction but does not specifically hold certification or regulation in Canada.
What is the minimum deposit to start trading on Coingate?
Coingate does not have a fixed minimum deposit for buying or selling crypto, but transaction minimums may apply depending on the chosen cryptocurrency and payment method. These thresholds can vary, so it is important to check Coingate’s website or during the order process for precise requirements.
Does Coingate offer welcome bonuses or rewards?
Coingate does not routinely provide welcome bonuses or sign-up rewards for new users. Occasionally, promotional campaigns may offer special incentives, but these are not a standard feature of the platform.
How does staking or earn work on Coingate?
Coingate does not currently offer native staking or earn features within its platform. It primarily serves as a payment gateway and trading platform for cryptocurrencies, focusing on buying, selling, and payment processing without yield-generating products.
How does Coingate earn money (trading fees, spreads, commissions)?
Coingate generates revenue mainly through transaction fees on crypto purchases, sales, and payment processing services. Fees can vary according to the selected service and payment method, and details are available transparently on the Coingate platform.
Who is the team or company behind Coingate?
Coingate was founded in 2014 and is headquartered in Vilnius, Lithuania. It is operated by a team of professionals with expertise in blockchain and payments, led by CEO Dmitrijus Borisenka and supported by a diverse group focused on fintech and crypto adoption.
When was Coingate launched?
Coingate was officially launched in 2014. Since then, it has expanded its services to support thousands of merchants and cryptocurrency users worldwide with crypto payment and trading solutions.
Does Coingate provide insurance or proof-of-reserve for customer funds?
Coingate does not provide insurance or publish proof-of-reserve reports for customer funds. As a non-custodial payment gateway, many crypto transactions are processed directly to user wallets, reducing the company’s role in holding client assets.
How can I contact Coingate’s customer service?
Coingate offers customer support through a help center on its website, where users can submit support requests or access extensive FAQs. For more specific issues, users can reach out via email or the platform’s contact form.
Does Coingate offer a referral or cashback program?
Coingate operates a referral program that rewards users for inviting new customers and merchants to the platform. Details of the referral rewards and conditions are available on their official website and are subject to change based on campaign periods.
Is Coingate regulated or certified in CA?
Coingate is not regulated or licensed as a financial institution by Canadian authorities. It operates internationally and complies with regulatory standards in its home jurisdiction but does not specifically hold certification or regulation in Canada.
What is the minimum deposit to start trading on Coingate?
Coingate does not have a fixed minimum deposit for buying or selling crypto, but transaction minimums may apply depending on the chosen cryptocurrency and payment method. These thresholds can vary, so it is important to check Coingate’s website or during the order process for precise requirements.
Does Coingate offer welcome bonuses or rewards?
Coingate does not routinely provide welcome bonuses or sign-up rewards for new users. Occasionally, promotional campaigns may offer special incentives, but these are not a standard feature of the platform.
How does staking or earn work on Coingate?
Coingate does not currently offer native staking or earn features within its platform. It primarily serves as a payment gateway and trading platform for cryptocurrencies, focusing on buying, selling, and payment processing without yield-generating products.
How does Coingate earn money (trading fees, spreads, commissions)?
Coingate generates revenue mainly through transaction fees on crypto purchases, sales, and payment processing services. Fees can vary according to the selected service and payment method, and details are available transparently on the Coingate platform.
Who is the team or company behind Coingate?
Coingate was founded in 2014 and is headquartered in Vilnius, Lithuania. It is operated by a team of professionals with expertise in blockchain and payments, led by CEO Dmitrijus Borisenka and supported by a diverse group focused on fintech and crypto adoption.
When was Coingate launched?
Coingate was officially launched in 2014. Since then, it has expanded its services to support thousands of merchants and cryptocurrency users worldwide with crypto payment and trading solutions.
Does Coingate provide insurance or proof-of-reserve for customer funds?
Coingate does not provide insurance or publish proof-of-reserve reports for customer funds. As a non-custodial payment gateway, many crypto transactions are processed directly to user wallets, reducing the company’s role in holding client assets.
How can I contact Coingate’s customer service?
Coingate offers customer support through a help center on its website, where users can submit support requests or access extensive FAQs. For more specific issues, users can reach out via email or the platform’s contact form.
Does Coingate offer a referral or cashback program?
Coingate operates a referral program that rewards users for inviting new customers and merchants to the platform. Details of the referral rewards and conditions are available on their official website and are subject to change based on campaign periods.
