Can You Make Money on YouTube in Canada?

The short answer is yes! YouTube is a powerful platform that offers plenty of opportunities for Canadians to earn money, whether you’re pursuing content creation as a passion project or a full-time career. With access to the same monetization features as creators worldwide, Canadian YouTubers can turn their creativity into a steady income.

In this blog post, we’ll explore realistic and accessible ways Canadians can earn money on YouTube without worrying about options that aren’t available here.

Ready to expand your reach as a content creator? Learn how Canadians are earning on TikTok and Instagram. If you're setting up your channel, check out our guide to the best cameras for YouTube creators or how to build a home studio. You might also find affiliate marketing a great way to diversify your income.

1. The YouTube Partner Program (YPP)

The YouTube Partner Program is one of the most popular ways to monetize your channel. To qualify, you’ll need:

• 1,000 subscribers.

• 4,000 watch hours over the past year.

• A linked Google AdSense account, which is fully available to Canadians.

Once you’re approved, you can earn revenue from ads displayed on your videos. Advertisers pay YouTube, and you get a cut based on views, clicks, and other engagement metrics.

Why It Works in Canada: Canadian audiences are highly valuable to advertisers, meaning ad rates (known as CPM, or cost per thousand views) can be higher than in some other countries. If your content appeals to both Canadian and U.S. viewers, you may see even better returns.

2. Channel Memberships

If you’ve built a loyal following, Channel Memberships are an excellent way to generate recurring income. With memberships, your subscribers can pay a monthly fee to access perks like exclusive emojis, badges, or behind-the-scenes content.

Canada-Specific Tip: Canadians are already familiar with subscription models like Netflix and Spotify, so offering membership perks can feel like a natural value-add for your audience.

Credit: Lifewire

3. Super Chats and Super Stickers

Super Chats and Super Stickers allow viewers to pay during live streams to highlight their messages or send animated stickers, making them stand out in the chat.

Key Details

• Super Chats: Paid messages appear highlighted in bright colors and stay pinned at the top of the chat for a set duration, depending on the amount paid.

• Super Stickers: Viewers purchase fun, animated stickers to interact with the creator during a live stream.

  
  

Eligibility

• Your channel must be monetized (YouTube Partner Program).

• Live chat must be enabled.

• Super Chats and Stickers are available in Canada.

  

How to Maximize Earnings

1. Engage with Viewers: Acknowledge Super Chats in real-time to encourage more participation.

2. Host Regular Live Streams: Q&A sessions, tutorials, or special events work well.

3. Create Themes: Tie Super Chats to milestones (e.g., shout-outs for specific donation amounts).

   
   

Super Chats and Stickers are ideal for creators with active, engaged audiences and can generate consistent income during live broadcasts.

4. Selling Merchandise

Merchandise is a great way to diversify your revenue streams. You can sell branded items, such as t-shirts, mugs, or tote bags, directly from your YouTube channel. Platforms like Spring integrate seamlessly with YouTube, making it easy to display and sell products to your audience.

This image features Michael Stevens from Vsauce promoting the Curiosity Box, showcasing how creators can successfully leverage their brand and audience to sell merchandise and connect with fans.

Credit: CuriosityBox

Canada-Specific Advice:Consider using a Canadian-based print-on-demand service to simplify shipping within the country. If your channel has a Canadian focus, incorporating local themes or designs could resonate with your audience.

5. Sponsored Content and Brand Deals

As your audience grows, partnering with brands can become a major revenue stream. Sponsored videos involve promoting a product or service in exchange for payment or free products. Brands value creators who can connect with their niche audience, and rates vary based on audience size.

The chart below highlights average sponsored video rates:

Canadian Opportunities:

• Partner with local Canadian brands or startups looking to reach your audience.

• Highlight niche industries like winter apparel, outdoor gear, or local services.

Important Note: Always disclose sponsored content in compliance with Canada’s advertising standards.

6. YouTube Premium Revenue

How It Works

• No Ads, Still Paid: You earn revenue even without ads when Premium members watch your content.

• Automatic Eligibility: If you’re part of the YouTube Partner Program, Premium earnings are included automatically.

Maximizing Premium Revenue

1. Focus on Longer Content: Tutorials, series, and documentaries encourage more watch time.

2. Use Playlists: Group videos to keep viewers engaged.

3. Target Local Audiences: Content around Canadian culture, travel, or lifestyle resonates well.

   
   

Why It Matters

YouTube Premium adoption is growing in Canada, offering creators a steady, passive income stream alongside ads and sponsorships.

7. Affiliate Marketing

Affiliate marketing allows creators to earn commissions by promoting products or services through unique affiliate links. You place these links in video descriptions, and when viewers click and make a purchase, you earn a percentage of the sale.

Credit: Uscreen

How It Works

1. Sign up for affiliate programs like Amazon.ca, VidIQ, or Skillshare.

2. Share affiliate links in your video description, as shown in the example above.

3. Earn commissions when viewers purchase through your links.

Tips for Success

• Promote Relevant Tools: Recommend products your audience finds valuable (e.g., video editing software, creative tools).

• Use Clear Calls-to-Action: Encourage viewers to click, like “Get free music for YouTube here: [Link].”

• Stay Transparent: Always disclose affiliate links to maintain trust and follow Canadian advertising guidelines.

Affiliate marketing is an effective way to monetize your content while providing value to your audience.

8. Tax Benefits and Grants

Canadian YouTubers can benefit from tax deductions and grants to offset costs and grow their channels.

Small Business Tax Benefits

If YouTube earns you income, you’re considered self-employed by the CRA. You can claim:

• Equipment: Cameras, microphones, editing software.

• Home Office: A portion of rent, utilities, or mortgage interest.

• Other Costs: Internet, travel, and marketing expenses.

  
  

Tip: Keep detailed receipts and records to simplify tax filing.

Grants for Canadian Creators

• Canada Media Fund (CMF): Funds digital media projects aligned with Canadian storytelling or innovation.

• Provincial Arts Councils: Offer grants for cultural or artistic content.

• Startup Grants: Programs like Futurpreneur Canada support young entrepreneurs.

Looking to expand beyond YouTube?

Learn how to monetize TikTok with our TikTok Monetization Mastery for Canadians program. Now available for free, discover expert strategies to grow and earn on TikTok.

👉 Explore the Program Here

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can Canadians really make money with YouTube?

Absolutely, Canadians can earn significant income through YouTube. Whether you're a lifestyle vlogger, tech reviewer, finance expert, or gaming creator, YouTube provides multiple revenue streams. The most common is ad revenue via the YouTube Partner Program (YPP), where creators earn a share of ads displayed on their videos. But that's just the start — Canadians can also monetize through channel memberships, Super Chats, affiliate marketing, and sponsored partnerships with brands.

Platforms like YouTube have made global monetization possible, and Canada is no exception. In fact, many Canadian creators like Peter McKinnon and Simply Nailogical have turned YouTube into full-time careers. The opportunity is very real, but it does require consistency, strategy, and community building.

Source: YouTube Creator Program

2. What are the requirements to monetize my YouTube channel in Canada?

To join the YouTube Partner Program in Canada, you must meet several criteria. Firstly, your channel needs at least 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 valid public watch hours over the past 12 months. Additionally, your channel must comply with YouTube's Community Guidelines and AdSense policies. You also need to have an active Google AdSense account linked to your YouTube channel, as this is how you'll receive your earnings. For creators focusing on Shorts, YouTube also has a separate YouTube Shorts Fund, and now monetization options for Shorts creators globally. Meeting these requirements signals to YouTube that your channel has genuine engagement and community value.

Full Requirements: YouTube Help

3. How do I get paid from YouTube in Canada?

Once your channel is approved for monetization, YouTube pays you through Google AdSense. You’ll need to set up an AdSense account and connect it to your YouTube channel. Payments are made once your AdSense balance reaches $100 CAD or more, and you’ve completed the verification steps. Payments are typically issued via direct deposit to your Canadian bank account. Keep in mind that YouTube earnings are subject to tax regulations in Canada. It's advisable to maintain proper financial records and consult with a tax professional to ensure you comply with CRA requirements.

Learn more about AdSense payouts

4. How many views do I need to make $1,000 a month in Canada?

This depends heavily on your CPM (Cost Per Thousand Impressions), which varies by niche and audience location. In Canada, CPMs can range from $4 to $15 CAD, depending on the topic. For example, finance or technology channels usually command higher CPMs due to advertiser demand. Roughly, to earn $1,000 per month from ads alone, you’d likely need between 150,000 to 300,000 views monthly. However, smart creators diversify income streams with brand sponsorships, affiliate partnerships, and merchandise sales, which can significantly reduce the number of views required to reach this goal.

5. How do taxes work for YouTubers in Canada?

YouTube earnings are classified as self-employment income in Canada, which means you are responsible for declaring all earnings to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). You should report your income annually and may also need to charge GST/HST if your total self-employment income exceeds $30,000 CAD in a calendar year. Many creators open a separate business bank account to manage expenses and income efficiently. Keep detailed records of all YouTube-related income and deductible expenses such as equipment, software, internet costs, and even a portion of your home office, if applicable.

6. Can I make money on YouTube without showing my face?

Yes, faceless YouTube channels are not only possible but thriving. Examples include animation channels, whiteboard explainers, stock video compilations, podcast audio uploads, and tutorial channels with screen recordings. These channels rely heavily on voiceovers, high-quality visuals, and editing rather than personal presence. The key is to deliver value—whether it's education, entertainment, or inspiration. Many faceless channels monetize effectively through ads, affiliate links, and digital products, making it a great option for creators who prefer to stay behind the scenes.

Guide to Faceless YouTube Channels

7. What are the best niches for Canadian YouTubers?

Choosing a profitable niche is crucial for success. In Canada, high-performing YouTube niches include:

• Personal Finance & Investing — Canadians love content on RRSPs, TFSAs, and saving tips.

• Tech Reviews & Unboxings — New tech releases generate high CPMs.

• Lifestyle & Home Improvement — DIY and renovation content attracts a loyal audience.

• Education & How-To Videos — Tutorials on software, business skills, or even Canadian immigration.

• Travel & Food Vlogs — Featuring Canadian destinations and cuisine.

The right niche aligns your passion with market demand and has the added benefit of attracting long-term sponsorships and brand collaborations.

Source: Shopify's Trending Niches

8. How long does it take to start earning on YouTube?

There’s no set timeline, as it depends on content quality, consistency, niche competition, and audience engagement. Some creators hit monetization in 6 months, others may take 1–2 years. Consistent posting (at least 1–2 times a week), learning YouTube SEO, using engaging thumbnails, and keeping viewers hooked with strong storytelling are critical for faster growth. Don’t get discouraged—YouTube rewards consistency and audience trust over time.

YouTube Growth Tips: Think with Google

9. Does YouTube have special programs for Canadian creators?

Yes, YouTube offers programs like Creator Spotlight, YouTube NextUp, and #YouTubeBlack Voices Fund, which are open to Canadian creators. These initiatives provide funding, mentorship, and promotional support to help creators grow their channels. Additionally, YouTube often hosts creator meetups and workshops across major cities like Toronto and Vancouver.

Check YouTube Creator Programs

10. Can I monetize YouTube Shorts in Canada?

Yes! Starting February 2023, YouTube Shorts creators in Canada became eligible for ad revenue sharing. Earnings are pooled from ads viewed between Shorts, and distributed to creators based on view count and engagement. Shorts is YouTube’s answer to TikTok, and creators are capitalizing on the platform’s push for short-form content. Combine Shorts with regular videos for maximum reach and revenue potential.

Maximizing Making Money on YouTube in Canada?

YouTube offers creators in Canada an incredible opportunity to share their passion while earning a living. The key is to understand your audience, tailor your content to what resonates with them, and leverage all monetization features available.

Additionally, keep your content consistent and build a genuine connection with your viewers. Whether it’s tapping into Super Chats during a live stream, selling merchandise, or working with local brands, there are plenty of ways to make money on YouTube in Canada.

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