How to choose the best eSIM for Canada in 2025 

SIM cards have been used since the early days of cell phones. But thanks to the development of global eSIM technology, those physical cards are no longer needed. Now you can connect to the internet and stay in touch with everyone back home, in a much more convenient way. 

To get the most out of your international eSIM, you want to select a provider that works best for you. That’s usually easier said than done when there are so many providers available. There’s a lot to consider, from data allowances to coverage, speed and support. Fortunately, we can help to narrow down your options. 

Why use eSIM in Canada?

Using a prepaid eSIM in Canada is a great way to stay connected to the internet. Keep up with all your social media accounts or contact your friends and family as soon as you land. With an eSIM you don’t have to worry about falling off the grid. 

Wondering about all the ways you’ll benefit? Here’s a quick rundown: 

• Stay connected: Don’t worry about missing out on anything important while you’re away. With an eSIM you’ll remain firmly in touch with everything going on online and at home. 
• Convenient SIM switching: You can switch networks with ease. And it’s all done online to make things as simple as possible. 
• Instant activation: You’ll be able to access all your favourite online apps as soon as you land. 
• Cost-effective: There’s no need to worry about expensive roaming fees. 
• Flexible travelling and tourism: Instead of pre-planning all your tourist spots, you can explore and book sightseeing trips while you’re in Canada. This gives you more flexibility and freedom over your travels. 

Best eSIM for Canada: comparison

Want to compare providers before settling on your choice? Here are some of the best options, handpicked by us. 

Holafly

Holafly is one of the best eSIM providers for international travel to Canada. It promises fast and reliable internet with zero roaming charges. Plus, every plan comes with unlimited data for connection whenever you need it. 

Setup is simple too. All you need to do is scan a QR code or use a manual installation code, then you can install and activate your eSIM ready for your travels. You can share up to 500MB of data each day to cover multiple devices for your friends or family members. 

Airalo 

Airalo offers a range of different plans to suit varying budgets and stays. It’s considered to be more affordable and claims to be trusted by over 10 million users worldwide. 

This eSIM is simple to use and can be accessed via the Airalo app. Simply choose your destination and plan, install and activate and you’re good to go. 

Airalo is a top choice for many. This is because of its accessibility and large international reach. Plus, they offer 24/7 customer support, promising to help whenever you need it, 365 days a year.  

Nomad 

Nomad is a popular eSIM provider in Canada, focusing on high-speed connectivity and affordable pricing. They boast thousands of highly-rated reviews on TrustPilot, with an average score of 4.4 out of 5 stars. 

With a wide range of daily and weekly plans, Nomad offers great coverage across Canada and the rest of the world. While their plans must be used within 60 days of purchase, the process is straightforward, with automatic activation once you arrive at your destination. 

Breeze eSIM 

This eSIM for Canada is dedicated to making internet access as easy as possible. It works with multiple devices and offers a 3-step activation process. 

You can choose between unlimited and fixed plans, all with varying data options and price points. Plus, this eSIM promises to save you up to 80% on mobile data costs, while also allowing for data sharing. 

Global eSIM 

Global eSIM covers data as well as voice minutes. With multiple plans available across various networks, it’s a popular choice for many. Its activation process appears to be lengthier than some of the other options on our list, but plans are some of the more affordable on the market. 

This prepaid eSIM for Canada is compatible with a wide range of devices and it allows for free incoming calls. Plus, activation is instant, meaning you can access the internet from the minute you touch down in Canada. 

Jetpac  

Jetpac is one of the newest additions to the eSIM market. It covers over 200 destinations including Canada, offering a number of different plans to keep you connected to the internet. 

Some of its most unique features include additional extras such as free lounge access and access to fast track at the airport, alongside its multiple plan options. They also share a variety of video testimonials from customers to showcase how highly-rated they are.   

What to look for when choosing the best eSIM for Canada?

It’s simple. In order to find the best eSIM for Canada, you need to find the plan that suits your needs in all the right ways. Here are some things to look out for: 

• Duration: Make sure you select an eSIM with plans that last the length of your trip. 
• Price: You don’t want to pay beyond your budget. Search for an affordable eSIM. 
• Data allowance: If you tend to use the internet a lot, whether for work or personal use, you’ll probably need more data. If you’re only using the internet for essential tasks, you’ll be fine with less.
• Top up options: Even if you think you know how much data you’ll need, you could still end up using more. Make sure your eSIM provider has top up options to keep you covered just in case. 

What is the cheapest eSIM for Canada?

We’ve already covered some of the cheapest eSIM providers in Canada. However, if budget is your main concern, here are some of our top picks based on costs alone.

GigSky 

For 100MB of data, you can get a plan for free with GigSky. This is currently available for a limited time, with their prepaid plans starting from $5.99 for 1GB of data. Key features include an easy setup through the GigSky app and flexible activation. 

Global Yo 

Their cheapest plan starts at $0.89 for 500MB data over a 24-hour period. They also have regular offers available to knock a percentage of the cost of each plan. Plus they have their own referral scheme so you can earn rewards too. 

Roamless 

Another eSIM in Canada that offers a completely free plan. It comes with 250MB of data and no expiry date. Setup is simple and it also offers a pay-as-you-go option in case you need to top up. Prepaid eSIMs start from $4.45 which is still relatively low when compared to other plans.  

Where can you buy eSIM in Canada?

If you need to buy an eSIM in Canada, there are two main options. This includes: 

• Online providers: All of the companies we’ve already mentioned are online providers. Search for Nomad or Holafly to browse through their plans and prices. 
• Phone companies: Places like Bell will offer eSIM options through their online sites and physical stores. If you’re already in Canada and need an eSIM, you can pop into one of their stores to ask for an eSIM. 

When should you activate eSIM for Canada?

Installing your eSIM should happen before you travel. But activation usually happens when you land. In some cases, this is automatic, which means you don’t have to do anything. As soon as you get off the plane, you should have access to the internet. 

However, some providers require you to activate the eSIM yourself. You can do this immediately or wait until you’re in the comfort of your hotel. It’s completely up to you.  

How much eSIM data do you need for traveling to Canada? 

The amount of data you need will depend on your own usage and your length of stay. Thankfully, eSIM providers in Canada offer a range of plans to suit varying needs. Here’s what we’d recommend for each type of stay. 

Tips for using eSIM in Canada

If you’re ready to start searching for a prepaid eSIM in Canada, we have some top tips for you to follow. First, make sure you compare all the different providers and plans thoroughly. You want to select an eSIM that works best for you and your travels.

Once you’ve settled on your chosen plan, make sure you install your eSIM in good time. Some providers have limits on activation codes, so you want to purchase your eSIM relatively close to your departure date. Remember to deactivate your normal SIM before activating your eSIM to avoid roaming charges. 

Finally, keep an eye on your data usage. It’s easy to go over your allowance, so look at pay-as-you-go options just in case you run out. Other than that, it’s fairly easy to use an eSIM in Canada, so you can stay connected with ease. 

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