Affiliate Marketing in Canada: Strategies, Laws & Localization Tips
- Natalie Filion
- May 8
- 4 min read
Affiliate marketing is a proven way to drive scalable growth, increase customer acquisition, and build long-term brand equity. But if you’re looking to launch or optimize an affiliate program specifically for the Canadian market, there are important distinctions to understand. Canada isn’t just a smaller version of the U.S.—it’s a unique landscape with its own cultural nuances, linguistic expectations, regulatory environment, and shopper behavior.
AIM is here to help walk you through everything you need to build a high-performing affiliate program in Canada. With a majority of our team being based in Canada, our team has a strong understanding of Canadian consumer behaviour, key market nuances, as well as the specific laws and regulations that govern marketing in this country. From foundational best practices to localized strategies that truly resonate, we’re here to help!
Whether you’re new to affiliate marketing in Canada or ready to scale, here’s what you need to know to succeed.
Why Affiliate Marketing in Canada Requires a Unique Approach
Canadian consumers value authenticity, transparency, and cultural relevance. Simply copying and pasting strategies from your U.S. program won’t cut it. To succeed here, brands need to take a tailored approach that reflects the country’s diverse regions, linguistic expectations, and regulatory landscape.
That means adjusting your affiliate marketing strategy across every touchpoint—from how you speak to your audience to how you support your partners. Below, we’ll walk through the essential steps to localizing your program for the Canadian market—and why each one matters.
1. Customize Content and Language for Canadian Audiences
Canadian consumers are proud of their identity, and your content should reflect that.
Use Canadian Symbols: Use subtle national symbols like the maple leaf or Canadian flag to connect emotionally with your audience.
Speak Their Language: Canadian English uses different spellings and terminology from American English. Even subtle details like "favourite" instead of "favorite" can boost reliability.
Go Bilingual: Canada has two official languages—English and French—and 22% of the population speaks French as their first language, most of whom live in Quebec. To effectively reach this audience, it’s essential to translate your content or offer French-language creative assets. Doing so not only expands your reach but also demonstrates cultural awareness. Keep in mind that Canadian French differs from European or international French, so working with local translators ensures your messaging feels authentic and resonates with the audience.
2. Localize Pricing, Payment & Shipping
One of the quickest ways to lose a Canadian customer? Pricing in USD with surprise duties at checkout. Make sure to:
Display prices in CAD to build trust and reduce cart abandonment.
Be upfront about duties, taxes, and delivery timelines. This also includes details on return processes.
Offer local payment options like Interac e-Transfers and digital wallets popular in Canada.
3. Build Campaigns Around Canadian Holidays & Culture
While Canadian holidays share similarities with those in the United States, there are notable distinctions. Below are the key holidays that are unique to Canada. Tailoring your promotional calendar to Canadian-specific events can drive greater engagement.
Think beyond Black Friday and Cyber Monday, also run campaigns for Boxing Day (Dec 26), Canada Day (July 1), and Canadian Thanksgiving (the second Monday in October).
Integrate seasonal and weather-based themes, especially in regions with distinctive climates. Think snow tires in Alberta or cottage gear in Ontario.
View our quick-reference guide to key Canadian shopping dates.
4. Optimize for Mobile-First Canadian Shoppers
With over 42% of Canadians shopping on mobile at least monthly, a mobile-friendly affiliate strategy is essential.
Ensure landing pages and affiliate creatives are fully responsive.
Partner with creators who specialize in mobile-first content on platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels.
Test SMS-based promos or mobile wallet offers for added conversion lift.
5. Partner With Local Canadian Affiliates and Influencers
Canadian affiliates and creators know how to speak to Canadian audiences.
Prioritize Local Relationships: Canadian partners often have strong brand trust and regional insights. For example, partnering with local Quebec-based affiliates or influencers can help you better target French-Canadian consumers.
Regional Targeting: Tailor content and marketing messaging for specific provinces like Quebec, BC, or Ontario, where consumer preferences differ.
Support Education: Some Canadian affiliates are still new to the affiliate model. Equip them with Affiliate 101 guides, onboarding support, and regular check-ins to help them grow alongside your brand.
6. Align with Canadian Values: Sustainability & Social Impact
Canadian consumers increasingly seek out brands that prioritize sustainability and ethical practices. Therefore, brands that align with Canadian ethics are more likely to earn long-term loyalty.
Promote your use of eco-friendly packaging, carbon offsetting, or ethical labor.
Encourage affiliates to weave in value-based messaging into their content to build a more authentic connection with their audiences.
7. Stay Compliant With Canadian Marketing Laws
Marketing regulations in Canada are stricter than in many countries. Ensuring both your internal team and affiliate partners are informed of the laws and regulations and are compliant is key to the success of your affiliate program. Here are a few laws to keep in mind:
CASL (Canada’s Anti-Spam Law) requires clear consent for emails and newsletters.
PIPEDA governs how you collect and use personal data.
The Competition Act and Québec’s Law 25 introduce strict advertising and privacy requirements, especially in French-speaking regions.
Ad Standards Influencer Marketing Disclosure Guidelines: Canada’s version of the FTC guidelines for transparent influencer marketing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is affiliate marketing legal in Canada?
Yes, affiliate marketing is legal in Canada, but it’s subject to local advertising, privacy, and email marketing laws like CASL and PIPEDA.
What are the best affiliate networks in Canada?
Top affiliate networks with a strong Canadian presence include Rakuten, CJ Affiliate, and Awin, though many brands also build direct programs or work with agencies like AIM.
How do I find Canadian affiliates?
You can connect with local affiliates through influencer platforms, affiliate directories, or by partnering with an agency like AIM that specializes in Canadian markets.
Ready to Launch or Grow Your Affiliate Program in Canada?
Canada is full of opportunity, but only for brands willing to respect its differences and invest in localization. By customizing your content, building regional partnerships, and staying compliant with Canadian regulations, your affiliate program can grow into a powerful, long-term revenue channel.
If you need help building or optimizing your Canadian affiliate program, we have your back!
Whether you're launching for the first time or scaling up, our team specializes in navigating the nuances of the Canadian market. Reach out for a free consultation or download our Canadian Landscape eBook to get going.
