Just consider: You land at Vancouver International or Pearson Toronto. You turn on your phone and seconds later, without digging for a kiosk, messing with a physical SIM card, or even wasting a moment fretting about setups, you're online. Post a photo. Find your hotel. Text home. No muss. No fuss. Just quick access. That's eSIM.
What's an eSIM? And why you need it for your trip to Canada!
An eSIM is a digital or embedded SIM card that is permanently installed directly into your cell phone. There is no chip to install. Simply scan a QR code from your cell service provider, and you're activated on a local data plan. It only takes a few minutes to set up right from your phone. It only takes a few minutes to activate from your cell phone.
Why choose eSIM for Canada?
✔Power up anywhere: Get connected before you fly.
✔Save your number: Call with Canadian high-speed data using your standard line.
✔Go international, stay local: Choose your data plan. No contract. No commitment.
✔Travel safer: No small SIM card to lose or replace.
Ready to visit Canada with open borders? Find your ideal eSIM plan today and start a wiser travelling experience!
- CountryCanada
- Package OptionTotal-1GB
- Number of Days3 Days
- Price£1.48
- CountryCanada
- Package OptionTotal-5GB
- Number of Days7 Days
- Price£5.22
- CountryCanada
- Package OptionTotal-10GB
- Number of Days15 Days
- Price£9.39
Best Canada eSIM providers 2025
With so many options available, which provider offers the best eSIM Canada plan for your needs? Our detailed 2025 comparison helps you decide:
Provider | Sample Plan | Price | Networks in Canada | Key Advantage |
Trip.com | 5 GB / 30 days | £ 6.68 | Rogers, Bell, Telus, SaskTel | Unbeatable value & best coverage |
Airalo | 5 GB / 30 days | £ 13 | Bell | Extensive eSIM library for global destinations |
Holafly | Unlimited / 7 days | £ 30 | Bell, Telus, Sasktel | Truly unlimited data for heavy users |
Nomad | 5 GB / 30 days | £ 11 | Bell, Telus | A solid mid-tier option for Canada-only trips |
*Data plans and prices may vary; please refer to the latest information on the provider’s official website.
Analysis & Recommendations:
- For most travelers: A 5GB/30-day plan typically offers the best balance of data and validity for common needs like navigation, social media, and browsing. This mid-range option avoids overpaying for excessive data while providing ample coverage for trips of varying lengths.
- For power data users: Unlimited data plans suit bandwidth-intensive applications such as video streaming, remote offices, and video conferencing but be sure to check for service providers' fair usage policy.
- For multi-destination itineraries: Regional plans covering both Canada and the United States offer the most cost-effective solution for travelers visiting both countries, eliminating the need for separate connectivity solutions.
Flexible Canada eSIM data plans
Whether you're spending a weekend in Canada's cosmopolitan cities or a two-week Canadian Rockies trip, there is an eSIM Canada package to suit your stay. From short stay plans to longer data packs, prepaid eSIMs present wallet-friendly and convenient connectivity with top carriers such as Rogers, Bell, and Telus.
Select a validity period anywhere between 1 to 30 days with data packs catering to different travelling styles. Light travelers can choose smaller packs (1-3 GB) to remain on track with navigation and text messages, but live-streamers and work-from-anywhere professionals can choose high-data or unlimited data packs. For travelers who combine a Canadian trip with a USA visit, Canadian American Regional North America packs allow coverage with a single pack valid across borders. All packs include immediate QR code-based activation and high-speed 4G/5G support to allow you to share your journey moments anywhere.
Heading off to Canada for a weekend? Trip.com eSIM's your one-stop solution:
- Supported by Canada's leading carriers: Rogers (5G), Bell (5G), Telus (5G)
- QR code delivered instantly. Get connected before you land.
- 1~30 days validity, variable daily or full-term data options (e.g. 1GB/day or up to 30GB total)
- Instant delivery of QR code through email – enable anywhere, even prior to arrival
- Complete 4G/5G access with enabled hotspot
- Can be reinstalled 10 or even more times for a single device
501 booked
Canada USA eSIM: Cross-border data plans
Planning a trip that includes both Canada and the United States? A single regional eSIM keeps you connected seamlessly across both countries without the hassle of switching SIM cards. Whether you're exploring Toronto and heading to New York, or crossing the border on a road trip, you’ll enjoy continuous coverage with no extra steps.
These cross-border plans are designed for convenience and value. Instead of purchasing separate plans for each country, you can access shared data in both locations, often at a better rate. Major local networks in both nations are supported, ensuring reliable speeds for mapping, sharing photos, or staying in touch while you travel.
Ready to simplify your trip? Explore flexible data options tailored for multi-country travel in the options below. Activate before you arrive, and your phone will automatically connect as you cross the border.
eSIM compatibility: Check your device
Before you purchase an eSIM plan, be aware that you should ensure that your phone is capable of doing so. Good news? Most smartphones that have been produced after 2018 can be eSIM-compatible. Here's how to check if yours is among them.
eSIM supported Apple iPhones are:
- iPhones XS, XR, subsequent versions (up to iPhone 15 series)
- iPhone SE (2nd generation and 3rd generation)
Android smartphones that support eSIM typically include:
- Google Pixel 2 and subsequent (complete support from Pixel 3 onward)
- Samsung S20 series from onward (Z Flip/Fold series also included)
- Motorola models, Huawei models, Oppo models, and Sony models
Is your phone eSIM compatible?
- iPhone: Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan. If you see "Add eSIM," your device is supported.
- Android: Head to Settings > Connections > SIM Manager (or Network & Internet > Mobile Network), and search for a "Download a SIM" or an "Add eSIM."
✅ Dual SIM (physical SIM + eSIM) is supported with most eSIM-compatible smartphones to enable calling with home number with high-speed data usage internationally.
Activate Canada eSIM: 5-step guide
Activating your eSIM is easy as pie and only takes a few minutes:
1. Buy: Choose and acquire your preferred eSIM Canada plans from a reliable provider. Make sure you also have a good internet.
2. Get QR Code: You will receive an email with your eSIM QR code and step-by-step installation instructions immediately after you buy. There is also a manual installation available for some providers.
3. Installation:
- Connect to Wi-Fi
- Open your mobile's camera to read the QR code
- Follow directions to add the cell plan
- Label the plan appropriately (e.g., "Canada Data")
4. Configuration:
- Set up your new eSIM as your primary data provider
- Turn data roaming ON (in spite of the alarming nomenclature, this is needed to enable the eSIM to function)
- Keeping the main SIM active for calls/texts if preferred
5. Activation: Most eSIMs activate with installation but some should be activated manually upon arrival into Canada. Check your provider's specific instructions.
All set! Enjoy your vacation with internet!
👉 Stay connected in Canada with an eSIM and discover top sights and tours.
Mobile coverage in Canada: What travelers should know
While Canada's cities have a great coverage of their networks, service is patchy in remote areas and backcountry national parks because Canada is such a large country. Large carriers such as Rogers, Bell, and Telus collectively cover more than 99% of the population but geographical coverage is restricted within access-of-wilderness areas.
For calls and messages, consider these options:
- Access data services such as WhatsApp, FaceTime, or Skype via your eSIM connection
- Enable Wi-Fi calling with your primary SIM (consult with home carrier for support)
- Opt for an eSIM data-only plan with calling credits (which some providers offer)
To enable smooth connectivity:
- Download offline maps prior to going where reception is low
- Save emergency telephone numbers (911 throughout Canada)
- Verify whether your eSIM is voice-call enabled or data-only
- Frequent calls to a destination? Think about a legacy SIM or voice eSIM
Network strength is regionally variable. Rogers is typically strongest in east Canada, with Telus and Bell being dominant in the west. The majority of eSIM services will default to connect you to the strongest available network where you are.
Trip.com eSIM: Canada travel made easy
Plan a trip to Canada and would be happy to stay in touch as soon as you arrive? Trip.com's eSIM is here for you!
Why Trip.com eSIM is your safest bet for your Canada trip:
- Complete flexibility: Choose the ideal plan for 7, 10, or even 30 days, including unlimited data options.
- Instant access: Buy, scan the bar code, and be online immediately without needing a physical SIM.
- All-in-one convenience: Your one-stop companion for internet, air tickets, and Canada hotel bookings.
Experience with over 20 million travelers who count on our hassle-free service.
Get connected, stay curious!
Canada eSIM FAQs
How much is eSIM Canada?
eSIM plans for Canada vary in cost based on data and length. A 5GB/30-day plan typically costs between £7–13, while a 7-day unlimited plan starts around £30. Prices may differ by network coverage and plan features.Do eSIMs change your phone number?
Absolutely Not. When you add an eSIM, you're adding a second data line, not replacing your existing one. Your primary phone number stays exactly as before.Is it worth getting an eSIM for travel?
An eSIM is a digital SIM card that allows you to switch to mobile plans from different network providers. It's particularly useful if you're travelling abroad, as you can switch to local data plans. They're often much cheaper than international roaming charges.How long does an eSIM take to activate?
For most devices, scanning a QR code triggers the activation. Make sure you have a strong connection to the internet before you start, and the activation should wrap up in around 20 seconds— but in some cases it can take up to 10 minutes if the network connection isn't as strong.Is eSIM common in Canada?
Yes, you can get an eSIM Canada. If you are traveling or staying in Canada, you can buy and activate a Canada eSIM plan using a QR code or the Klook app. This option lets you avoid expensive roaming fees while still getting fast international data from Rogers.
