Canada Proposes Ban on Crypto Donations to Prevent Foreign Interference

• •Canada's Bill C-25 aims to ban crypto donations to prevent foreign interference.
• •The legislation affects political parties, candidates, and third-party organizations.
• •If passed, violators could face fines and must return banned contributions within 30 days.

On March 26, 2026, Canada introduced Bill C-25, proposing a federal ban on cryptocurrency donations in political financing. This legislation aims to curb foreign interference and address concerns over hard-to-trace funding channels. The bill would prohibit political parties, candidates, and third-party organizations from accepting contributions in cryptoassets, money orders, or prepaid payment products. It follows recommendations from the Public Inquiry into Foreign Interference and Elections Canada. If enacted, recipients of banned contributions would have 30 days to return or dispose of them. The bill has cleared its first reading but requires further parliamentary approval. Previous attempts to regulate crypto donations faced challenges, leading to this renewed effort. The government emphasizes the need for stronger election security measures to protect democracy. The proposed penalties for violations include significant fines and mandatory return of donations.