Key takeaways
- Bring an unlocked phone and use a Canadian SIM or eSIM
- Prepaid plans need no credit check
- Postpaid plans may need a credit check or a deposit for newcomers
- Smaller brands owned by the big carriers are often cheaper
- Avoid long phone financing until you know your budget
Your options
The three largest carriers are Bell, Rogers and Telus, each with lower-cost brands. Freedom Mobile and regional carriers add competition. Plans with a reasonable amount of data typically cost $35–65 a month.
Prepaid or postpaid
- Prepaid: pay in advance, no credit check, easy to change. A good first plan.
- Postpaid: billed monthly; carriers may run a credit check and ask newcomers for a security deposit. Paying it on time can help build credit.
Your phone
If your phone is unlocked and supports Canadian networks, you can use it with a local SIM card or eSIM from day one. Some carriers let you activate an eSIM before you land.
Tip: Carriers in Canada must unlock phones for free, so a phone you buy here can be used abroad later.
What to avoid
- Two-year phone financing before you know your monthly budget
- Plans that charge high overage fees for data or long distance
- Giving your SIN to a phone company. It isn’t required
General information. Plans and prices change often; compare current offers before you sign.
