Buying a Phone Plan

A Canadian phone number is important for job applications, banking, and everyday life. You can choose between prepaid plans and monthly contracts, depending on your status and budget.

Main options

• Prepaid / pay-as-you-go – easy to start, no credit check, good for newcomers.
• Monthly plan – usually more data and better price over time, but may require credit check or deposit.

Where to buy

• Carrier stores in malls (Rogers, Telus, Bell, Freedom, etc.).
• Electronics shops and big box stores.
• Online, with SIM card mailed to your address.

What you need to bring

• Passport and immigration document.
• Canadian address.
• For monthly plans, sometimes proof of income or a deposit if you have no credit history.

Tips to save money

• Check if your employer or school has partner discounts.
• Compare data limits carefully; extra data can be very expensive.
• Use Wi-Fi at home/school for heavy data usage.