Explore the Real-Time Rail sandbox API environment

Developers can now access RTR sandbox APIs to create and test solutions.

Payments Canada is pleased to announce the availability of the Real-Time Rail (RTR) sandbox APIs, offering developers, vendors and RTR participants the opportunity to innovate and prepare for Canada’s upcoming real-time payment system. This sandbox gives you the tools and test data necessary to integrate with and visualize the full capabilities of the RTR prior to its official launch.

Understanding the RTR

The RTR is set to introduce a new capability for Canada: the real-time movement of funds from one account to another. This system will support faster payments 24/7/365 that are irrevocable.

By connecting to the RTR, participants will gain the ability to develop new ways for Canadian consumers, businesses and governments to pay for goods and services, transfer money and enhance their ability to compete nationally and internationally.

Prepare and innovate using sandbox APIs

Payments Canada’s RTR sandbox APIs allow developers to explore and test API functionality in a sandbox environment, using test data, a crucial step for businesses preparing for the launch of the RTR.

Using the APIs within this dedicated sandbox environment offers the following benefits:

• Single and public source of truth: As an open testing environment, developers have access to the documentation and information they need to innovate and collaborate.
• Exploration and experimentation: Developers gain access to a safe, secure environment to test RTR APIs.
• System visualization: Users can understand the RTR and its capabilities prior to go-live.
• Simplified onboarding: The sandbox contributes to the ease of integration with the RTR at go-live.
• Innovation: Using the sandbox for RTR use cases aims to lead to early API and product development.
• Business opportunities: The RTR APIs are designed to create opportunities for users to build their own use cases for the RTR.

Leveraging the ISO 20022 Standard

The RTR API specifications are designed with the ISO 20022 financial messaging standard in mind for all transactions. Payments Canada, working collaboratively with the industry and leveraging the best practices of other jurisdictions, developed RTR-specific ISO 20022 message specifications.

This approach provides participants with key advantages, allowing them to prepare their existing applications to leverage the value of the ISO 20022 messaging standard at RTR go-live. It also supports global interoperability and offers access to enhanced remittance data and improved transparency in payment details.

Vendors that support Canada’s payment ecosystem are also encouraged to use these published message specifications to update their applications and develop new services for RTR participants and the wider ecosystem.

Get started today

The RTR sandbox APIs are now available, representing an important step in enabling real-time payments across Canada. We invite developers, vendors and prospective participants to register on our developer portal to begin engaging with this environment. Early adoption will help ensure readiness for the RTR launch and foster initial product innovation.