When you arrive in Canada, you can easily use your phone when you activate an eSIM. eSIM technology allows you to activate a cellular data plan like a traditional SIM card and save on mobile data costs. Discover what eSIM is and how to activate it, price, benefits, and more!

What is eSIM?

Many phones today have an embedded SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) card. While eSIMs function like physical SIM cards, they have more benefits such as durability, space-saving on your phone, and enhanced security.

You can also activate and manage eSIMs remotely, and easily switch between different numbers and carriers without swapping out physical cards. Not only that but eSIMs support prepaid and postpaid mobile phone plans.

What is a SIM Card?

A SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) card holds the information to connect you to a mobile network. A SIM card will allow your mobile device to receive calls, send SMS messages, and connect to a cellular network in Canada.

Why Do I Need eSIM and What Are the Benefits?

With eSIM, you can easily and quickly use your phone to connect to people and places. Some of the benefits include:

Cost Savings

• You’ll avoid high international roaming costs which can inflate your phone bill and hurt your finances when you’re new to Canada.

Convenience and Flexibility

With eSIM you don’t need a physical SIM card and you can:

• Activate eSIM digitally and use data plans of different providers

• Enable multiple service plans on a single device to separate work and personal lines or add international plans without affecting the main service

• Access your data needs and purchase a plan without visiting a store and buying from vendors.

Get a Local Number

• With a local Canadian phone number, it’s easier for people and employers to contact you. It’s common for Canadian employers to begin the interview process with a telephone interview.

Safety and Security

• eSIM allows you to avoid using public Wi-Fi at airports and cafes. This prevents hackers from stealing your personal information or monitoring online activities.

Network Coverage

• Using an eSIM ensures you get the best cellular network coverage.

Overall, getting a new eSIM card saves you money, offers greater convenience and safety, and helps you easily connect to friends, family, and employers when you land in Canada.

Can I Buy eSIM Before I Arrive in Canada?

Yes, you can buy eSIM before arriving in Canada! Many newcomers choose this route because of its convenience.

Benefits of Buying Before You Arrive in Canada

There are many things to after landing in Canada. Getting eSIM before you arrive in Canada allows you to easily connect to people and places as soon as you land.

In addition, many services, such as opening a Canadian bank account, require a local number for verification or setup. Having a local number from the start can facilitate these processes and avoid future headaches.

Combining the convenience, a seamless transition, and access to local services, getting eSIM before you arrive is worth it!

How to Get eSIM After You Arrive in Canada

Benefits of Buying After Arriving in Canada

When you buy an eSIM after you arrive, you can get personal service to learn about different mobile carriers and plans. This will help you choose the best option for your needs and budget. You can also get help from store representatives to activate and set up your network coverage, to ensure everything works correctly.

What is the eSIM Price in Canada?

The eSIM price in Canada depends on many factors. A big choice to make is between postpaid and prepaid mobile phone plans. Postpaid or monthly contract plans offer a set amount of calling minutes, texts, and data. Prepaid plans require you to buy calling minutes, texts, and data before using them.

Another choice you will have to make is between cell phone providers. Telus, Rogers, and Bell are the big three in Canada but tend to be a bit pricey if you buy as an individual. However, these carriers are great for family plans and bundles including home internet.

Some of the best mobile phone deals in Canada are with discount brands such as Freedom Mobile, Koodo, Virgin Mobile, and Fido, to name a few. All these providers offer new plans so it is a good idea to shop around to help you choose.

Global eSIM Services

Global eSIM services provide mobile data connectivity that you can use in many countries.

This can all be done without the need for physical SIM card changes.

One of the best global eSIM service providers is Saily. Saily’s services provide data coverage in over 150 countries with flexible travel data plans. Saily is the perfect choice if you need a data-only plan in Canada for a few days or weeks before choosing a cell phone provider. Saily is also a great travel companion if you travel outside Canada.

Getting access to Saily’s services is a quick and easy process. Download the app, choose one of Saily’s affordable plans, and enjoy reliable network coverage.

With many choices, you can find a plan that suits your needs and an eSIM price that meets your budget. Knowing how to activate it before you arrive is a convenient way to connect to people and places as soon as you land!

With limited competition, Canada faces some of the highest mobile phone rates, especially compared to European countries. However, there is pressure on providers to reduce prices. This makes it easier to find the best mobile phone deal in Canada with prices falling.  New technologies such as eSIM and 5G allow more options for users searching for deals. Like a regular SIM card, an eSIM allows using data plans from different providers.

Choosing the right provider and plan will let you connect with friends and family abroad and in Canada! This overview highlights Canada’s main mobile phone providers, their  “flanker brands” (or value discount brands), and plan options. You’ll also discover what to consider to select a plan that fits your needs whether you’re a data-hungry user, frequent traveller, or budget-conscious consumer.  

Who are Canada’s “Big Three” Mobile Phone Providers?

Three major cell phone companies and national carriers want to compete for your mobile phone business: Bell, Rogers, and Telus. These “big three” tier one providers offer the largest networks, coverage, and a range of plans from basic talk and text packages to data-focused plans to meet unique needs.

Each provider also has flanker brands that appeal to value-conscious customers. The tier two and three flanker brands offer more affordable plans and flexible options that result in large savings.

Here are Some of the Best Mobile Phone Deals in Canada

Tier 3 Low-Cost Mobile Phone Providers

Finding the best mobile phone deal in Canada depends on your unique needs and budget. This can include data usage, unlimited calling, high-speed connectivity, network coverage, extra features, or international calling. Compare deals, prices, and newcomer offers, as well as provider’s customer service reputation.

Tips & Strategies to Find the Best Mobile Phone Deals in Canada

These tips will help you select the best mobile phone plan that meets your needs and budget:

Consider Your Usage Patterns

Your usage will help you identify the plan that provides the right balance of data, minutes, and features.

• Do you consume a lot of data for streaming, browsing, or social media?

• Do you make frequent calls, or rely on messaging and other communication methods?

Check out Discount Providers

Bell, Telus, and Rogers offer the most comprehensive coverage, but discount providers may have better options in specific regions. Research the coverage maps of different providers to ensure they provide reliable connectivity in the areas where you live, work, and travel. Network coverage can be sparse in remote or rural areas. But, you’re likely settling in a city with good coverage.

Understand Contract Penalties

If you enter a contract, know the duration and any fees or penalties for ending the contract early. While longer contracts may offer lower monthly rates, they also limit your ability to change providers or plans in the future.

Avoid Hidden Charges and Fees

Carefully review the monthly plan costs, and additional fees for:

• Features

• Roaming

• Overages

• International calling

• Device financing.

Look for providers that offer transparent pricing and avoid hidden charges. Find a plan that meets your needs and fits your budget to maximize value and avoid overspending.

Ensure Device Compatibility for Bring Your Own (BYO) Device Plans

If you own a mobile device, ensure that it is compatible with the provider’s network and that you can bring it when switching plans. BYO plans are the most affordable plans for talking, texting, and mobile data.

Types of Mobile Phone Plans in Canada

Knowing different plans’ unique features and benefits will help you select the best mobile phone deal to meet your needs.

Postpaid Plans 

These are monthly subscription plans, where you receive a monthly bills for the services you already used. Postpaid plans often include a wider range of features, such as unlimited talk and text and higher data allowances. They may also offer the option to finance a new device as part of the plan. Most providers request a Canadian credit check for a month contract subscription.

Family Plans

Many providers offer family plans that allow you to share a pool of minutes, text messages, and data across multiple lines. These plans can be more cost-effective for households with multiple users, as they often include discounts for additional lines.

Pay-as-you-go Plans 

Also known as “top-up” plans, these options allow you to pay for usage as you go, without a fixed monthly fee. You can purchase airtime and data credits as you need, making them suitable for infrequent or occasional users.

Data-focused Plans 

Suppose you consume large amounts of mobile data, such as heavy streamers or mobile hotspot users. In that case, data-focused plans offer higher data allowances, often with the option to add more data as needed. These plans may be more expensive but can provide better value for data-heavy users.

International Roaming Plans

If you frequently travel outside Canada, consider plans that offer affordable international roaming options, such as discounted rates or included roaming data. This can help you avoid costly overage fees when using your phone abroad.

Bring Your Own (BYO) Plans

BYO plans are the most affordable plans for talking, texting, and mobile data. Often, this is the only option for newcomers. To purchase a new phone on a contract requires a credit check and without building a Canadian credit history, this is difficult.

By taking the time to research, evaluate, and compare your options, you can make an informed decision and find the best mobile phone plan that meets your unique needs. Whether you’re a data-hungry user, a frequent traveller, or a budget-conscious user, consumer, there is a plan to for the perfect balance of features and costs.

Recently, Dave Frattini, Managing Partner of Prepare for Canada and Rentals for Newcomers, sat down with Robin Ingle, CEO of Ingle International Insurance, to discuss the importance of Travel Medical Health insurance for immigrants arriving in Canada. 

In their discussion, Ingle, whose mother was an immigrant, explained the Canadian healthcare system, how Travel Medical Health insurance for immigrants works, and why it’s important for newcomers. He emphasized the social-based nature of Canada’s healthcare system and the need for newcomers to buy medical insurance to avoid unexpected expenses. Ingle is an acclaimed specialist in special risk insurance.

Myths About Healthcare in Canada

Ingle provided valuable insights for immigrants on Travel Medical Health insurance and why it’s important to understand coverage levels and policy information. This can help newcomers who do not have provincial health insurance when they first arrive avoid unexpected and high medical costs.

Their discussion explains why newcomers to Canada (and international students) should prepare for healthcare and insurance costs before arriving in Canada. Ingle also dispelled myths about Travel Medical Health insurance.

You’ve been helping newcomers with insurance for over 50 years. Can you share your company’s history?

Robin Ingle (RI): I come from an immigrant family. Two hundred years ago, my father’s family moved from Pennsylvania to Canada, and my mother moved from Finland to Canada for a better life with her family. That’s how they met.

After World War II, when Canada started receiving an influx of immigrants, my parents focused on health insurance for newcomers. That was before there was a social health care system in Canada. They concentrated on helping people in the way that Prepare for Canada helps newcomers acclimate to Canada, find housing, and the biggest part, health insurance.

Today, we work worldwide. Providing services and coverage to new newcomers is in our DNA.

Can you give an overview of how Canadian healthcare works?

RI: There are misunderstandings about the Canadian healthcare system. It is a social system, but it only applies to permanent residents in Canada who are part of a provincial government health insurance plan. If you do not have PR status, you’re considered a non-resident. If you are getting your permanent residency but haven’t applied for your provincial health plan, you’re considered a non-resident until you join the provincial plan.

In Canada, the costs of healthcare services for non-residents are high. Visiting a clinic can cost anywhere between $100 and $200. Going to a hospital and emergency room can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000. If you have to stay in the hospital on an inpatient basis, it can be $3,000 or more per day.

Major hospitals charge $17,000 or more for a day’s stay in an intensive care unit. This is very expensive for people outside the provincial government health system.

An important thing people need to understand is that healthcare providers in Canada are private. The provincial government is the biggest payer and manager of the government health system. A private doctor bills the government, and the government pays the largest portion of their bills (only a small amount of patients are non-residents). The government pays the physicians and the hospitals. So it’s a slightly different system than in the UK or Europe.

Why should newcomers buy Travel Medical Health insurance?

RI: The cost is not high. For example, for a family, you will pay insurance for three months. You might pay upwards of $500 for three months to cover the waiting period before you get onto a provincial health plan. That would cover inpatient hospitalization, outpatient care, and emergency visits to a clinic.

Most newcomers who have come through the immigration process are healthy, so the cost is reasonable and in line with the type of risk.

You need to be prepared. You pay a small amount for the coverage and know you and your family will be covered if something happens, like an accident. It’s important to stress that any medical incident can be costly without provincial or private healthcare.

A while ago, my sister fell and broke her hip and had to go to the hospital. That was an accident. You could get the flu, or a bee sting and need to go to the hospital because of an anaphylactic shock. Insurance covers hospital visits under these plans. 

When should newcomers purchase Travel Medical Insurance?

RI: People can purchase insurance before or after they arrive. However, depending on the coverage, there is a 48-hour waiting period when you arrive. This means you can’t claim for a sickness within 48 hours of buying it. 

Who should purchase Travel Medical Health insurance? 

RI: Newcomers do not want to begin their lives here with extra bills. Health insurance coverage is worth a small amount of money for anybody not covered under a provincial government health plan.

Also, Canadians returning from working, studying, or living outside Canada for more than 183 days must reapply for their provincial government health plan, depending on the province. And they have to wait up to three months to get that coverage. So insurance is not just for newcomers. It’s also for those who have been out of the system for some time.  

Who is eligible for Travel Medical Health insurance?

RI: Anybody coming into Canada who is a non-resident, a newcomer, or anybody applying for permanent residency. Or anyone going through the immigration process as a refugee. Anybody in these categories considered a newcomer can apply.

First and second-generation Canadians who are already citizens often buy coverage when their families visit. They often don’t think about this because they’re now Canadian citizens. They don’t realize how much medical costs can be for visitors or grandparents visiting.

You also have new rules, like the Super Visa, where you can bring an older relative over for a period of time if you’re a new Canadian. So, you need Super Visa visitor insurance. You need a minimum coverage of $100,000 for 12 months. There are different categories, but anybody visiting who’s not covered should get coverage. 

Are there groups that are not eligible for Travel Medical Health? 

RI: There are no ineligible groups. If you do not have coverage under a provincial government plan, you should get it. And, if you have a pre-existing medical condition, you need to ask questions because the plans may not cover that medical condition.

If you’re (a visitor) taking medication for a pre-existing heart condition, for example, and go to the hospital and try to buy the coverage, you will not be eligible for most plans. 

What should newcomers look for in a Travel Medical Health Insurance policy?

RI: Often, newcomers or Canadians bring relatives over and must buy visitor insurance or provide coverage before they enter a provincial health plan. They’ll buy the cheapest product, which means less coverage. I advise that they buy the mid-level coverage. With low coverage, you can get $100,000 or $50,000 worth, but that can disappear quickly. If you’re in the hospital for even a few days, it can cost $50,000, and the low-coverage insurance won’t cover anything else.

Choose between $350,000 and $500,000 worth of coverage. Make sure you’re covered for the full period you need. Ask for additional coverage if you need it.  

Travel medical health insurance often which goes by different names. What should newcomers look for to ensure their travel medical health needs are covered? 

RI: Here, it’s called Visitor to Canada insurance. Be sure you read the information provided and understand what is covered. Financial literacy is important, especially with insurance and financial products.

Ensure the insurance covers you and your family for doctor visits and hospitalization if needed. If you need medication for an emergency, ensure it is covered. For newcomers, that would be Super Visa insurance.

What’s the difference between travel medical health insurance and travel insurance? 

RI: Travel insurance in Canada draws a good distinction between the two.

Travel insurance in the Canadian market is traditionally for a Canadian citizen travelling outside of their home province in Canada. Travel insurance within Canada covers the difference between what the province and the insurance will cover. So, it’s a different level of coverage.

Also, when people leave their country of origin or their original country of residence, they often buy local coverage, which may not have the same level of coverage they will need in the Canadian market. So make sure you compare the products. We’ll provide background information if anybody has questions.

Can you explain the relationship between Ingle Insurance and Aha, your broker of choice for Prepare for Canada?

RI: Aha is a great property and casualty organization providing automobile, home, and business insurance access. We like how they do business, and we use their platform to compare products. We fit well because we have access to our products, and all major companies to get the right product to fit the individual’s needs. That makes a big difference. Plus, Aha provides information to help individuals understand what kind of coverage they need and how to get it. We do exactly the same thing.