Do you want a simpler and more flexible way to stay connected without dealing with physical SIM cards? eSIMs could be the answer. In Canada, many mobile providers are moving to eSIM plans, making it simpler to switch plans or carriers. This also means there are a lot of options available.
This guide will help you find the best eSIM for Canada based on your needs, whether you’re looking for better coverage, lower prices, or flexible plans.
What is an eSIM?
An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a digital version of a SIM card built into your device. The main difference with a traditional SIM card is that you can’t remove an eSIM, it’s a tiny chip soldered onto the device’s motherboard.
eSIMs work like regular SIM cards but can be reprogrammed remotely. Instead of changing physical cards, you download network profiles to your device. This makes switching carriers or plans much easier without needing a new SIM card.
While physical SIM cards are still widely used, eSIM technology is becoming more popular because it’s easier and more flexible. As of October 2023, 134 phone models supported them, and by 2025, 98% of mobile carriers are expected to offer eSIM plans. eSIM isn’t just for phones, it’s also used in smartwatches, tablets, cars, and even bike-sharing systems. For travelers, eSIM is great because it lets them connect to local networks in other countries right away, saving them from high roaming charges.
If you’re traveling to Canada, you can choose between an eSIM and a prepaid SIM card. Here’s a quick comparison between eSIMs and prepaid SIM cards for Canada:
| Feature | eSIM | Prepaid SIM Card |
| Convenience | ✅ No physical swapping; digital activation | ❌ Requires inserting a physical SIM |
| Availability | ❌ Limited carrier options | ✅ Easily found at airports, kiosks, and stores |
| Activation | ❌ Can be tricky for first-time users | ✅ Quick and simple—just insert and use |
| Network Switching | ✅ Can store multiple profiles for easy switching | ❌ Requires buying a new SIM for a different plan |
| Device Compatibility | ❌ Only works on eSIM-compatible devices | ✅ Works with any phone that has a SIM slot |
| Dual-SIM Capability | ✅ Works alongside a physical SIM | ❌ Requires replacing your current SIM |
| Troubleshooting | ❌ Issues may require customer service help | ✅ Easier to replace if problems arise |
| Environmental Impact | ✅ No plastic waste | ❌ Uses a physical card |
| Cost | ✅ Competitive pricing | ✅ Often affordable, especially for short-term use |
| Coverage & Speed | ✅ Generally good with major carriers | ❌ Some prepaid options may have weaker coverage |
| Registration Requirements | ✅ Can be set up online | ❌ Some providers require ID verification |
Which one to choose?
- Go with an eSIM if your phone supports it and you want a quick, digital setup.
- Go with a prepaid SIM if you prefer a physical card or have a phone that doesn’t support eSIM.
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The Benefits of Using an eSIM Over a Physical SIM in Canada
No Roaming Costs
Having an eSIM during your trip to Canada can surely help you stop overpaying for roaming fees. For example, major Canadian carriers charge $12–$16 per day for international roaming, which adds up to $360–$480 for a month-long trip. That is just to stay connected!
With an eSIM, you can use local data plans at much lower prices. Instead of paying expensive roaming fees, you get local rates literally. An eSIM plan with 20GB of data can cost just $34.90. That would be pretty much a 90% savings!
Plus, eSIMs let you switch carriers easily, so you can find the best coverage and prices. It’s a budget-friendly way to stay connected during your trip.
Related: Data Roaming: Should It Be On or Off While Traveling?
Instant Setup
With an eSIM, the endless and tiresome search for SIM card stores is over! You can buy and activate your plan before you even land in Canada, so you’re online the moment you arrive. In fact, it’s a good idea to activate the eSIM before or as soon as you arrive, using airport Wi-Fi or your home network. Just make sure your phone supports eSIM before buying it, and download the provider’s app for an easier setup.
To activate an eSIM, first, choose an eSIM provider and buy a plan online. After that, you will then get a QR code, which you need to scan with your phone’s camera to set up the eSIM. After it’s set up, your eSIM will be activated, and you can begin using data immediately.
Single or Regional eSIMs
If you are traveling across North America, an eSIM would make it easy to stay connected in Canada, the USA, and Mexico without needing three different SIM cards. Many eSIM providers offer regional plans that work in all three countries, so you don’t need to buy separate SIMs for each destination.
This is especially useful for visiting several countries at once, like Niagara Falls and moving between Canada and the US and multi-country trips or for a Canadian city getaway followed by a beach vacation in Mexico.
Eco-Friendly
Using an eSIM while traveling in Canada is not just about convenience, it’s about saving the planet!
If you choose an eSIM today, you’re helping protect Canada’s natural beauty. That may sound exaggerated but, what if I told you that over 1 billion SIM cards are made each year, and many are used only once?
These SIM cards are made of plastic and contain materials that don’t decompose easily. If we estimate that each SIM card weighs about 2 grams, that adds up to over 2,000 metric tons of plastic waste every year just from SIM cards. This doesn’t even account for the environmental impact of making, packaging, and shipping them around the world. Many of these SIM cards end up in landfills, where they can take hundreds of years to decompose and release harmful chemicals into the environment.
eSIMs generate 46% less CO2 over the lifespan of a phone compared to physical SIMs. They are more energy-efficient, with only 2% of emissions coming from their production, while physical SIMs account for 59% of emissions. eSIMs also last longer because they can be reused and reprogrammed multiple times, which helps reduce waste.
So, we weren’t exaggerating when we said that choosing an eSIM today can help preserve our planet.
Connectivity in Urban and Remote Areas
Canada is huge, really huge. It is the second-largest country in the world by land area, just after Russia. It covers about 9.98 million square kilometers (3.85 million square miles)
Imagine staying connected in every part of this vast country, and not just in big cities like Toronto or Vancouver, but also in remote, colder areas like places like Banff National Park and the Yukon.
However, that should not be a problem with a good eSIM provider, you’ll have reliable access to 4G or 5G networks. The provider will automatically switch you to the best available network, whether it’s Rogers, Bell, or Telus, ensuring you have strong signal and coverage no matter where you are in Canada, whether you’re in a busy city or out in the wilderness.
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How to Choose the Best eSIM for Canada
What to consider when choosing eSIM for travel in Canada?
Network Coverage
Because Canada is so big, coverage is important when choosing an eSIM. Most eSIMs work great in major cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal. But if you’re visiting remote areas like Banff, Jasper, or the Arctic Circle, make sure your eSIM connects to strong networks like Telus, Rogers, or Bell for reliable 4G/5G service.
Pro tip: Check the provider’s coverage map before you buy to make sure you’ll stay connected wherever you travel!
How Much Data Will You Need?
How much data you will need depends on how you use it.
Light users, like those who use maps or browse occasionally, will need around 1-3GB of data each week. If you’re a medium user, like someone who checks social media or streams videos, you might need 5-10GB every two weeks.
Heavy users, such as those who stream movies or work remotely, can easily use 20GB or more per month and may prefer unlimited plans.
Other things to consider:
- Canada’s average internet speed is 8.16 Mbps (as of 2020)
- Canadians spend about 45 hours online each month.
- It’s smart to start with a smaller plan and top up data if needed, especially if traveling to areas with less reliable coverage.
How Long Are You Staying in Canada?
Most eSIM plans for Canada come in different options based on typical trip length. For short trips (1-7 days), you can get a weekly plan with 1GB or more of data per day. For longer stays (2 weeks to 1 month), you can choose from 5GB, 10GB, or unlimited data plans. Frequent travelers can opt for a multi-country plan that works in Canada, the U.S., and Mexico.
Other things to consider:
- Pick a plan based on how long you’ll stay and how much data you need.
- Canada eSIM options range from 1GB/7-day plans to 20GB/30-day plans.
- Prices vary from $5 to $70, depending on data and duration.
Will You Make Calls & Text, or Just Use Data?
In Canada, most eSIM providers offer only mobile data plans, meaning you’ll need apps like WhatsApp for calls and messages.
Some providers do offer plans with a local phone number and call minutes, but data-only plans tend to be the norm. If you need traditional calls and texts, it’s important to check the plan details before purchasing.
Will You Need an eSIM Hotspot?
Not all eSIM providers in Canada let you share your mobile data with other devices, like laptops, using a hotspot.
This can be life-changing for remote workers or people traveling in groups. So, before settling for a provider, make sure their plans allow tethering.
Also, be aware that using a hotspot can use up data quickly, so choose a larger plan if you’ll share often. Some providers offer unlimited data with hotspot use, but speeds may slow down after a certain limit.
eSIM Prices in Canada
eSIM prices in Canada vary a lot depending on the amount of data, the provider, and where you’ll be using it. In 2025, budget plans with limited data start at around $1. Mid-range plans with 5-10GB of data typically cost between $13 and $25 for 30 days. Unlimited data plans are more expensive, usually ranging from $30 to $60 per month.
As a rule of thumb, the more data you get, the cheaper it is per GB. Some providers offer plans that work throughout North America, which is helpful for travelers. It’s a good idea to compare different plans to find the best deal based on your needs and the length of your trip.
Best eSIM Providers for Canada: Price and Plan Comparisons
Airhub
Airhub offers a wide range of eSIM plans for Canada, with over 30 different options, including regional and global plans, and one specifically for North America. Prices start at $1.80 for 1GB of data for 7 days and can go up to $40 for 50GB per month with calls included. They use the Telus network in Canada, so you’ll get good coverage.
However, customer reviews are mixed. While the plans are affordable and diverse, some users have faced issues with performance and customer service, including trouble activating plans and getting refunds. Though they offer 24/7 support, some customers find it slow or unhelpful.
SimOptions
SimOptions provides a range of eSIM plans for Canada, including daily, weekly, and monthly options, as well as regional and global plans. Prices start at $4.90 for 1GB over 7 days and go up to $59.90 for 50GB over 28 days, with larger data plans offering better value.
All plans include 4G/5G connectivity and support hotspot usage. While they claim to offer 24/7 customer support through live chat, email, and phone, reviews indicate slow response times, which can be frustrating when immediate assistance is needed. They don’t have an app for managing your plan, and their customer satisfaction is mixed, with a 4.3-star rating on Trustpilot.
Ubigi
Ubigi plans for Canada include daily, weekly, and monthly options, as well as regional and global plans. Prices range from $12 for 1GB over 7 days to $29 for 3GB over 30 days, with better value for longer plans. It also supports hotspot functionality for sharing data across devices.
However, customer support is only available by email, and user reviews are mixed, with a 4.2/5 rating on Trustpilot. The service includes a user-friendly app for managing your eSIM, but some users report slow customer support response times.
Yoho Mobile
Yoho Mobile provides flexible eSIM plans for Canada, with options for daily, weekly, and monthly use, as well as regional and global coverage. Yoho Mobile has both unlimited and limited data plans starting at $1.79.
For unlimited data, you can get 1 day for $9.46, 7 days for $58.57, 15 days for $124.04, or 30 days for $135.95. For capped data, they offer 3GB for $12.44 (7 days), 5GB for $22.36 (15 days), and 10GB for $34.78 (30 days). These plans give users a choice based on how much data they need and how long they’ll be using it.
Yoho Mobile provides 4G and 5G coverage by partnering with major Canadian networks and allows hotspot usage. They offer 24/7 customer support through chat, WhatsApp, and email. With a 4.8-star rating on Trustpilot, customers are very satisfied with their service. Their app lets you quickly manage your plan and activate it in just 2 minutes. Plus, they offer a full refund, so there’s no risk for trying an eSIM from Yoho Mobile.
With its affordability, reliability, and top-tier customer support, Yoho Mobile stands out as the best eSIM provider for Canada.
How to Buy & Activate an eSIM for Canada
Before you begin, make sure your phone supports eSIM. If it does, here’s a simple guide to buying and setting up an eSIM for your trip to Canada:
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Go to Yoho Mobile’s website or download their app.
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Choose Canada as your destination and select other countries where you’ll need data. You can select as many destinations as you want.
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Customize your plan:
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Pick how many days your trip will be.
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Choose how much data you need. For short trips, consider 1-3GB plans. For longer stays, opt for 5-10GB or unlimited plans.
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Use the code YOHO12 at checkout for a 12% discount!
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Complete your purchase within the website or through the app. You will need to enter a valid email to receive your eSIM confirmation. Choose your payment method (credit card, WeChat, Amazon Pay, Alipay, or Cash App Pay) and enter your payment details.
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You will receive the QR code by email.
Note that to activate your Yoho Mobile eSIM on iPhone you need to Go to Settings > Cellular, Tap “Add Data Plan”, Scan the QR code, Tap “Add Cellular Plan”, and Name your eSIM (e.g., “YOHO MOBILE eSIM”), Set it as your default line if needed, Enable data roaming when you arrive in Canada.
To activate your eSIM on Android: Go to Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager, Tap “Add mobile plan”, Choose “Scan Carrier QR code”, Scan the QR code, and Confirm to save the eSIM profile.
Additional Considerations for eSIM Users in Canada
Need to make calls with an eSIM: What are your options? Most eSIM plans for Canada only offer data, but there are ways to make calls:
- VoIP apps: You can use apps like WhatsApp, Skype, or FaceTime to make calls using data.
- Fongo: A Canadian service that gives you free calls within Canada.
- Google Voice: A service that lets you make affordable international calls.
- Some eSIM providers offer plans with local phone numbers and minutes for calls.
- Add-on services: Some providers let you add a Canadian phone number to your eSIM.
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Final Thoughts
In 2025, eSIM technology has made staying connected while traveling in Canada easier and cheaper. Travelers can save up to 90% on roaming fees, with data plans starting at just $1 for 1GB.
Activation is fast and simple, with no physical SIM card needed, connecting you to networks like Bell, Rogers, and Telus as soon as you arrive. eSIMs also allow for dual SIMs, reduce plastic waste, and support 4G/5G networks with customizable data plans.
In the future, eSIMs will offer AI-driven plan options, work with travel booking platforms, and provide even better 5G coverage. eSIMs are making it simpler, more flexible, and affordable to stay connected while traveling.
FAQs about the Best eSIM for Canada
What is the best eSIM for Canada?
Among all the providers in Canada, Yoho Mobile stands out as the best eSIM provider for affordability, flexibility, and positive customer reviews. While other options like Saily, SimOptions, and Jetpac offer competitive plans, Yoho Mobile excels with its customizable plans, 24/7 support, and high Trustpilot rating, making it the top choice for travelers.
Which is better, Airalo, Holafly, or Yoho Mobile?
All three providers—Airalo, Holafly, and Yoho Mobile—are reputable and offer solid options. Airalo is budget-friendly, though with limited data, while Holafly provides unlimited data plans at higher prices. Yoho Mobile stands out as the best option because it lets users customize their own plans. It has a high Trustpilot rating of 4.8 and offers 24/7 customer support. Yoho also claims to save up to 99% on roaming fees. For those looking for flexibility and value, Yoho Mobile is a great option for eSIM services.