How to choose a phone plan in Canada

Staying connected in Canada

Phone plans in Canada can be quite expensive compared to ones offered in Europe, Australia, and Asia.

If you’re visiting Canada just for a few weeks, the easiest solution is to get an unlimited roaming eSIM like Holafly (5% off). Staying connected will help you make the most of your trip.

On the other hand, if you’re moving to Canada on an IEC Working Holiday permit (or other permit), you’ll save a lot of money by opting for a local phone plan. This guide will introduce you to Canadian phone plans and help you pick the right one.

Benefits of having a local phone number

If you’re staying in Canada on an IEC permit (Working Holiday, Young Professionals, International Co-op), it is essential to have a Canadian telephone number. You’ll want to be easily contactable when approaching prospective employers and landlords. Many Canadian employers require proof you are already settled in the country, so applying to jobs with a foreign telephone number could send a bad signal.

In addition, you will be asked for a Canadian telephone number by most services, including registration at the library, grocery delivery service, walk-in clinics, the bank, etc.

Once you have applied for your SIN, getting a Canadian phone plan is usually the next step when you arrive in Canada.

Should I keep my home country phone number?

If you want to keep your usual phone number, it will make returning home at the end of your work permit easier. You can ask your operator if they can pause your contract until you return.

However, it’s more likely you will have to continue paying for services in your home country to keep your number. You can ask if you can move to the cheapest service available, allowing you to keep the number active without spending exorbitant amounts.