Latest rule amendments clarify cross-border arrangements and increase efficiency

Stay up to date on changes and amendments to Payments Canada’s rules and by-laws.

Payments Canada has introduced amendments to clarify processes and improve efficiency in cross-border arrangements for both the Automated Clearing and Settlement System (ACSS) and Lynx. These changes took effect on January 13, 2025.

The amendments were as follows:

• ACSS Rule C1: Amendments clarify that direct clearers (DCs) must receive written approval from Payments Canada before setting up their authorized personnel access to the ACSS/USBE application for cross-border arrangements. This clarification aims to ensure compliance and transparency in the application process. Further, the biennial submission deadline for members to send their attestation to Payments Canada has been updated from January 31 to March 1. This date change will simplify operational requirements for members by consolidating multiple attestation requirements into the same timeframe. Editorial updates were also made to the rule for consistency and clarity. 
• Lynx Rule 15: Similar to ACSS Rule C1, amendments were made to streamline cross-border applications. Participants may only establish operations and authorize personnel outside of Canada after their cross-border application has been approved and written confirmation has been received from Payments Canada. In addition to editorial updates, the biennial attestation deadline was also moved to March 1 to improve efficiency and consistency. 

Rules, standards and by-laws are reviewed and, if necessary, amended through processes that involve Payments Canada members, the Bank of Canada, the Payments Canada Board of Directors, the Department of Finance and the Department of Justice, as required. 

For full versions of amendments and rules and to learn more about Payments Canada’s rules, by-laws and the amendment or development process, please visit our Rules and documentation webpage.