Your vacation money: helpful tools and tips

Canadian Currency

Like our neighbours in the United States, Canada’s monetary system is based on dollars and cents. Visitors are advised to exchange their currency for Canadian dollars. This can be done at most banks or at foreign currency exchange outlets, which are often located in airport departure areas.

Currency Converter

Find out how much your currency is worth in Canadian dollars at today's exchange rate.

Banking

Debit and credit cards are accepted at most commercial establishments, banks and currency exchange offices. Banking hours are generally 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, and some banks are open Saturdays.

Automated teller machines (ATMs) are available 24 hours per day, and are typically connected with the Interac, Cirrus and/or Plus networks. They are located in banks, retail areas and, in many cases, at special event venues. ATMs offer the same rate of exchange as traditional banking and exchange institutions. 

Taxes

Provincial Sales Tax (PST)
Businesses collect 6% Provincial Sales Tax (PST) on taxable goods and services in Saskatchewan. Some goods are exempt from the PST, including basic groceries, reading materials, agricultural equipment and prescription drugs and medicine.

Non-residents are required to pay PST on all goods that are purchased in Saskatchewan. Refunds are not available for non-residents who remove goods purchased in Saskatchewan.

Good and Services Tax (GST)
In addition to the PST, the federal government charges a 5% Goods and Services Tax (GST) on most purchases. For more information on the GST visit Canada Revenue Agency.

Other Taxes
- 10% Liquor Consumption Tax on beer, wine and spirits
- some hotels charge a levy - check at time of reservation
- some Destination Marketing Areas charge a Destination Marketing Fee (DMF)