Choosing a Phone Plan in Canada
A local phone number is one of the first things you'll need. Banks, employers, landlords and government services all expect one. Mobile plans in Canada can cost more than in many countries, so a little comparison goes a long way.
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In this guide
Who provides mobile service
- The large national providers. Rogers, Bell and Telus have the widest coverage.
- Their lower-cost brands. Fido, Koodo and Virgin Plus run on the same networks, often at lower prices.
- Regional and independent providers. Smaller providers can offer very competitive plans in the areas they serve.
Prepaid or monthly?
| Prepaid | Monthly plan | |
|---|---|---|
| Credit check | No | Often yes. Newcomers may be asked for a deposit. |
| Commitment | None | Many plans are month to month. Device financing can last two years. |
| Best for | Your first weeks, or if you're unsure how long you'll stay | Longer stays and larger data needs |
Bring your own phone
Phones sold in Canada must be unlocked by the provider, so you can use a phone from home with a Canadian SIM if it's unlocked and supports Canadian networks. Check with your current carrier before you leave.
What to ask before you sign
- What does the plan cost in total, including taxes and any activation or SIM fees?
- How much data is included, and what happens when you run out?
- Is there a cancellation fee, or a device payment that continues if you cancel?
- Does the plan include calls and texts to other countries, or only Canada?
- Is the price a promotion that increases after a few months?
Don't forget home internet
If you rent, check whether internet is included. If not, providers differ by neighbourhood, so ask your landlord or neighbours which ones serve your building. Promotional prices often rise after the first year.
Navak provides general information only. It is not legal, immigration, financial or tax advice.
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