Get a Canadian Phone Number

Description

You need a phone number to open a bank account, apply for SIN online, receive job calls, and verify your identity for almost everything in Canada.

In person 30–60 min

Online 5–10 min

eSIM only

What to do

1. Check if your phone supports eSIM — if yes, you can activate a plan online without visiting a store

2. If buying a physical SIM, find a mobile store in a mall or on a main street

3. Compare at least 2–3 providers before choosing — prices and coverage vary significantly

4. Ask for a prepaid plan with no contract — avoid postpaid contracts for now

5. Choose a plan with enough data for your needs — 50+ GB is now standard for $35–45/month

6. Ask the total monthly cost including all fees and taxes before agreeing

7. Activate your number and test it works before leaving the store

Warnings

Sales people will pressure you to sign a 2-year contract

They'll offer a 'free phone' — it's NOT free, you'll pay $30–50/month extra for 24 months
If you buy a phone from the carrier, you will face contract penalties for early cancellation. But if you bring your own phone (BYOD), early cancellation fees are legally banned under CRTC Policy 2026-43.
Say 'I'm looking for a BYOD prepaid plan' — this tells them you have your own phone and aren't interested in a contract

Watch out for hidden fees

The advertised price rarely includes tax — expect about 12% more in BC
Activation fees are legally banned by the CRTC as of June 12, 2026. Setting up a new plan must cost $0 upfront — except for the physical SIM card if you don't use eSIM.
Always ask: 'What is the total monthly cost including all fees and taxes?'

Coverage varies by provider

Cheaper providers may have weaker signal in some areas of BC
Ask about coverage in your specific neighbourhood before choosing
If you travel outside Metro Vancouver often, check if the plan covers rural areas

Tips

What to look for in a plan

Look for prepaid plans with 50+ GB data for $35–45/month. You'll need data for Google Maps, banking apps, job searching, and staying in touch with family. Promotional deals (especially around Back to School or Black Friday) often offer 100+ GB for the same price.

BYOD — say this in the store

'BYOD' stands for Bring Your Own Device. Using this term immediately signals to the salesperson that you have your own phone and are only looking for a SIM plan — not a device bundle or contract.

eSIM option

If your phone supports eSIM, you can activate a Canadian number online in minutes without visiting a store. Check your phone settings under 'Cellular' or 'Mobile Data' to see if eSIM is supported.

Your new rights under CRTC 2026-43

As of June 12, 2026, Canadian carriers cannot charge you for activating a line, switching to a cheaper plan, or canceling a BYOD plan. You have total freedom to switch providers for $0. If a carrier charges you any of these fees after June 12 — file a complaint with the CCTS (ccts-cprst.ca).

International calling

Some providers include free minutes to certain countries as a newcomer bonus. Ask about international calling inclusions — it could save you money if you call home often.

Common providers

Fido, Koodo, Virgin Plus, Freedom Mobile, Lucky Mobile, Chatr, and Public Mobile all offer prepaid options. You can find most of them in malls or online.

For students

Some providers offer student discounts — ask if they have special rates for international students. You might save $5–10/month with a valid student ID.

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