Introduction
eSIMs are becoming the go-to way to connect to mobile networks in Canada, especially for travellers. Unlike traditional SIM cards, an eSIM is built into your phone, so there’s no need to insert anything. Just scan a QR code, and you’re online. Simple, fast, and hassle-free.
Whether it’s your first time using an eSIM or you’re looking for better travel connectivity, this guide answers the 30 most common questions about Canadian eSIMs. From buying and installing to choosing the right plan and managing dual SIMs, all answers are practical, clear, and free of confusing tech jargon.
Whether you’re visiting Toronto, Vancouver, or remote areas, this guide ensures your Canadian mobile connectivity is smooth, reliable, and affordable.
Table of Contents
- How to buy an eSIM for Canada?
- Which is the best eSIM for Canada?
- What should I look for when comparing different travel eSIMs for Canada?
- Do I need to provide any documents like a passport to buy a travel eSIM for Canada?
- Can I buy an eSIM for Canada in advance or should I wait until I arrive?
- How do I install and activate my international eSIM for Canada?
- Should I activate my travel eSIM before I leave or when I arrive in Canada?
- How do I activate my Canada eSIM using a QR code?
- What if I can’t scan the QR code for my Canada eSIM? Is there a manual installation method?
- How do I switch between my primary SIM and my travel eSIM on my phone in Canada?
- How do I make sure I am using the Canada eSIM for data and not my home plan to avoid roaming charges?
- What is a travel eSIM and how does it work for international trips to Canada?
- Why should I use an eSIM for Canada travel instead of my home carrier’s roaming plan?
- Is an eSIM cheaper than international roaming when visiting Canada?
- What’s the difference between a Canada travel eSIM and a local physical SIM card?
- Can I use a Canada eSIM and my regular SIM card at the same time?
- Will I get a new phone number with a Canada travel eSIM?
- Can I still receive calls and texts on my original number while using a Canada eSIM for data?
- Do Canada travel eSIMs include calls and SMS, or are they data-only?
- How much data will I need for my trip to Canada?
- Is my phone unlocked and compatible with Canada eSIMs?
- What is an eSIM card and how does it work in Canada?
- How to activate eSIM on an iPhone in Canada?
- How to transfer eSIM from one iPhone to another iPhone in Canada?
- Which phones support eSIM in Canada?
- How to transfer eSIM from iPhone to Android in Canada?
- How to delete eSIM from an iPhone used in Canada?
- How to set up eSIM on an iPhone while in Canada?
- How to add an eSIM to an iPhone while traveling to Canada?
- Is my phone eSIM compatible for use in Canada?
1. How to buy an eSIM for Canada?
To buy a Canada eSIM, visit Mobimatter and select a plan that suits your travel or work needs. Choose your data amount, validity, and complete payment. Instantly, you’ll receive a QR code and installation instructions via email or your Mobimatter dashboard. There’s no need for a physical SIM, passport verification, or waiting in-store queues. Install it directly via your phone’s eSIM settings and activate it when you land in Canada. This is perfect for tourists or business travellers who want immediate connectivity for maps, messaging apps, rideshare, and online banking. Buying in advance guarantees seamless service from the airport onwards.
2. Which is the best eSIM for Canada?
The best Canadian eSIM depends on usage. Light travellers might choose 1–5 GB plans suitable for navigation and messaging. For streaming, video calls, or remote work, select larger 10–30 GB+ plans. Mobimatter curates options from top Canadian carriers like Bell, Rogers, and Telus. Each plan lists coverage, speed (4G/5G), hotspot support, and pricing, making comparison simple. MobiMatter’s pick is Canada Premium 15 GB, balancing cost and reliability. Selecting the right plan ensures strong connections even in rural or northern areas, avoiding roaming charges and providing fast internet throughout your trip.
MobiMatter’s Pick - Canada 10 GB
3. What should I look for when comparing different travel eSIMs for Canada?
When comparing Canadian eSIMs, consider data volume (1–30+ GB), validity (3–30 days), carrier network (Bell, Rogers, Telus), speed (4G/5G), hotspot support, and per-GB cost. Customer service availability, user reviews, and coverage quality in both urban and rural areas are also crucial. Mobimatter provides these details clearly, making decision-making easy. Frequent travellers should prioritize coverage and data value; short-term visitors may focus on cost efficiency. Choose based on what matters most: speed, coverage, convenience, or price. Smart comparison avoids surprises during your trip.
4. Do I need to provide any documents like a passport to buy a travel eSIM for Canada?
No documentation is needed. With Mobimatter, only your email is required to receive the QR code and installation instructions. You avoid airport SIM queues, ID verification, and paperwork. The process is entirely digital, secure, and private. Ideal for international travellers, this approach allows you to pre-plan your Canadian connectivity without any hassle. Buy, install, and be ready to connect instantly upon arrival.
5. Can I buy an eSIM for Canada in advance or should I wait until I arrive?
Yes, you should buy your Canadian eSIM in advance. Mobimatter lets you purchase and install your eSIM from anywhere globally. You receive the QR code immediately and can install it over Wi-Fi before travel. Activate it only upon landing in Canada to preserve your data plan’s validity. This ensures instant connectivity for navigation, rideshare, and communications without waiting in store lines or dealing with roaming charges. Pre-purchasing guarantees smooth travel.
6. How do I install and activate my international eSIM for Canada?
Connect to Wi-Fi first. On iPhone: Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM → Scan QR. On Android: Settings → Network & Internet → SIM Manager → Add eSIM → Scan QR. Mobimatter also provides a manual method with the SM-DP+ server address and activation code. Label the plan (e.g., “Canada eSIM”) for easy management. Activate only upon arrival in Canada to preserve validity. Activation takes under a minute, giving immediate 4G/5G access to Bell, Rogers, or Telus networks.
7. Should I activate my travel eSIM before I leave or when I arrive in Canada?
Install before travel, but activate upon arrival. Activation starts your plan’s validity timer; doing it early may waste data. Use airport or hotel Wi-Fi to activate. Mobimatter provides instructions to ensure a smooth setup. This approach maximises plan usage and avoids network conflicts, giving you full access from day one.
8. How do I activate my Canada eSIM using a QR code?
Connect to Wi-Fi. On iPhone: Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM → Scan QR. On Android: Settings → Network → SIM Manager → Add eSIM → Scan QR. Scan the Mobimatter-provided QR code, label the plan, and set it as your default data line. Activation usually takes less than a minute. No physical SIM or store visit needed.
9. What if I can’t scan the QR code for my Canada eSIM? Is there a manual installation method?
Yes. Use the SM-DP+ server address and activation code provided by Mobimatter. Go to eSIM settings → Add eSIM manually → enter details. This is useful for devices that can’t scan QR codes or have camera issues. Installation takes only a few minutes, providing full network access. Mobimatter dashboard has detailed step-by-step instructions.
10. How do I switch between my primary SIM and my travel eSIM on my phone in Canada?
Go to SIM Manager or Cellular Settings. Set the Canadian eSIM as the default for mobile data. Keep your home SIM active for calls/SMS if needed. Switching back is simple via settings. Modern smartphones handle dual SIM management efficiently, routing data and calls based on your choices. Perfect for travellers needing local connectivity while staying reachable on home numbers.
11. How do I make sure I am using the Canada eSIM for data and not my home plan to avoid roaming charges?
To avoid unexpected roaming fees, set your Canada eSIM as the default data line in your phone’s Mobile Data or Cellular settings. On iPhone, go to Settings → Cellular → Cellular Data → Select your Canada eSIM. On Android, go to Settings → Network & Internet → SIM Manager → Default Data SIM. Turn off “Data Roaming” on your primary SIM to prevent accidental usage. This ensures all internet activity, including maps, emails, and streaming apps, uses the Canada eSIM only. Mobimatter provides step-by-step instructions during setup. Double-check these settings before landing to prevent surprises. Using this approach guarantees you enjoy fast local Canadian networks without incurring costly charges from your home carrier. This is essential for seamless connectivity while travelling.
12. What is a travel eSIM and how does it work for international trips to Canada?
A travel eSIM is a digital SIM embedded in your device, letting you connect to mobile networks without a physical SIM card. For Canada, you purchase a travel eSIM online from providers like Mobimatter, install it via QR code or manually, and activate it upon arrival. Once activated, your phone connects to local networks such as Rogers, Bell, or Telus. There’s no need to queue at airports or provide ID. Travel eSIMs are ideal for navigation, rideshare apps, streaming, or business communications. The process is fully digital, secure, and instant. It ensures you’re online the moment you land, which is particularly useful for tourists, business travellers, or anyone needing reliable connectivity throughout Canada.
13. Why should I use an eSIM for Canada travel instead of my home carrier’s roaming plan?
Using your home carrier abroad is often expensive and unpredictable. Canadian travel eSIMs provide instant connectivity at a fraction of roaming costs—usually 50–80% cheaper. You gain access to fast local networks like Rogers, Bell, or Telus without hidden fees or restrictive data caps. eSIMs are also convenient: purchase online, install digitally, and activate upon arrival. You avoid airport queues, document verification, or SIM swaps. Whether you’re using maps, streaming videos, or joining video calls, a Canada eSIM ensures reliable, high-speed connectivity. For travellers who value cost savings, speed, and hassle-free setup, eSIMs outperform traditional roaming plans and are the smart choice for modern international trips.
14. Is an eSIM cheaper than international roaming when visiting Canada?
Yes, Canada travel eSIMs are significantly more affordable than roaming. Roaming fees from your home carrier can be costly, with hidden charges, small data caps, and expensive overage rates. In contrast, travel eSIMs from providers like Mobimatter offer pre-paid plans with transparent pricing and high-speed data, often comparable to local SIM rates. Short-term travellers benefit the most—one day of roaming may cost more than a week of eSIM usage. With eSIMs, you control your plan, know the cost upfront, and avoid billing surprises. Even heavy users streaming videos or working remotely find eSIMs cost-effective. Overall, eSIMs combine convenience, transparency, and affordability, making them the preferred choice for Canadian travellers.
15. What’s the difference between a Canada travel eSIM and a local physical SIM card?
A Canada travel eSIM is fully digital—you purchase online, install via QR code, and activate instantly. No physical card swapping, no airport queues, and no ID verification. Physical SIMs require in-person purchase, documentation, and manual installation. eSIMs also support dual SIM functionality, so you can keep your home number active while using Canadian data. They provide flexible plans, clear pricing, and fast setup. For travellers, this means no risk of losing a tiny SIM chip or wasting time in stores. Whether for short-term visits or extended trips, eSIMs are faster, more convenient, and less stressful, giving modern travellers control over their connectivity while exploring Canada.
16. Can I use a Canada eSIM and my regular SIM card at the same time?
Yes. Most modern smartphones support dual SIM—one physical SIM and one eSIM. You can use the Canada eSIM for mobile data while keeping your home SIM active for calls or messages. On iPhone, go to Settings → Cellular → Cellular Data → Select eSIM for data. On Android, go to Settings → SIM Manager → Default Data SIM. This setup allows you to stay connected locally in Canada without missing important calls or texts from home. It’s ideal for business travellers, tourists, or anyone needing to maintain multiple numbers simultaneously. Mobimatter also provides guidance to optimize settings, preventing roaming charges on your home SIM while using Canadian networks efficiently.
17. Will I get a new phone number with a Canada travel eSIM?
Most Canada travel eSIMs from Mobimatter are data-only, meaning they do not provide a new phone number. You can continue using your home number for calls and SMS if your phone supports dual SIM. Data apps like WhatsApp, iMessage, Skype, or FaceTime work perfectly over the eSIM. Some plans may include optional voice/SMS bundles, but these are rare. For most travellers, data access is sufficient for navigation, rides, and communication. If having a Canadian number is essential, check the plan details for voice/SMS features or use VoIP apps. Understanding the distinction between data-only and voice-enabled eSIMs ensures you pick the right plan for your travel needs.
18. Can I still receive calls and texts on my original number while using a Canada eSIM for data?
Yes, with dual SIM functionality, you can keep your home SIM active for calls and messages while the Canada eSIM handles mobile data. On iPhone, set the eSIM as your primary data line and keep your home SIM for voice. On Android, assign your data line under SIM Manager. Ensure “Data Roaming” is turned off on your primary SIM to avoid charges. This configuration allows uninterrupted communication with family, colleagues, or services back home while using fast Canadian networks for internet activities. Mobimatter provides step-by-step instructions to prevent accidental roaming or data mix-ups. Using both SIMs effectively guarantees seamless connectivity without extra costs.
19. Do Canada travel eSIMs include calls and SMS, or are they data-only?
Most Canada travel eSIMs are data-only. This means traditional voice calls and text messages are not included. However, internet-based apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime, Google Meet, and Skype function seamlessly over the eSIM. Some plans may offer optional voice/SMS bundles, but these are limited. For travellers, a data-only eSIM is usually sufficient for maps, messaging, video calls, and ride-sharing. If calling is crucial, check for plans with VoIP support or limited voice/SMS inclusion. Mobimatter provides clear descriptions of each plan so you know whether voice is supported. Understanding this ensures you select the eSIM that matches your communication requirements during your Canada trip.
20. How much data will I need for my trip to Canada?
Data requirements vary by usage. Light travellers relying on maps, emails, or messaging may need 3–5 GB. Moderate users engaging in social media, web browsing, or video calls should consider 10–20 GB. Heavy users, streaming, working remotely, or uploading content, may require 30 GB or more. Mobimatter offers a range of plans to match your travel style. Most smartphones allow you to monitor data usage to prevent overages. Planning ahead ensures you purchase enough data for your trip without interruptions. Buying slightly more than expected is often safer, as topping up may not always be convenient while on the move. Accurate estimation ensures smooth, stress-free connectivity.
21. Is my phone unlocked and compatible with Canada eSIMs?
To use a Canada eSIM, your device must be unlocked and eSIM-compatible. Most phones released after 2020 meet these criteria. For Apple, iPhone XS/XR or newer work. Android devices like Google Pixel 3+, Samsung Galaxy S20+, and select Huawei, Oppo, or Xiaomi models are compatible. Check Settings → Cellular/Network → Add eSIM to confirm. Locked phones may block eSIM installation, so contact your carrier if necessary. Mobimatter provides a compatibility guide to help you verify your device. Ensuring unlock status and compatibility before purchase prevents setup issues and guarantees seamless use of Canadian networks during your trip. Modern travellers benefit from quick, hassle-free activation when prepared.
22. What is an eSIM card and how does it work in Canada?
An eSIM is a digital SIM embedded in your device, enabling connection to mobile networks without a physical card. In Canada, travellers use eSIMs to access local carriers such as Rogers, Bell, or Telus. After purchase via Mobimatter, installation is via QR code or manual entry. Activation connects the phone to Canadian networks instantly. eSIMs are ideal for tourists, business travellers, and digital nomads needing immediate internet access. They eliminate queues, physical SIM swapping, or documentation, providing a fully digital experience. With flexible plans, fast connectivity, and transparent pricing, eSIMs simplify travel communication and data usage. Using an eSIM ensures you’re online immediately upon arrival, avoiding roaming delays.
23. How to activate eSIM on an iPhone in Canada?
Connect your iPhone to Wi-Fi, then go to Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM → Use QR Code. Scan the QR from Mobimatter or enter the SM-DP+ server and activation code manually. Label the plan (e.g., “Canada eSIM”) to distinguish it from your home SIM. Set it as your primary data line. Once activated, your iPhone connects to Canadian networks instantly, supporting 4G/5G speeds. Activation usually takes under five minutes. Mobimatter provides step-by-step instructions and troubleshooting tips. The process is simple, secure, and avoids any need for physical SIM cards or in-person purchases, ensuring seamless internet access throughout your Canadian trip.
24. How to transfer eSIM from one iPhone to another iPhone in Canada?
Delete the eSIM from your old iPhone (Settings → Cellular → Select plan → Remove Cellular Plan). Log in to your Mobimatter dashboard and request a new QR code. On your new iPhone, go to Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM → Scan QR. Label the plan appropriately and activate it as your default data line. This ensures seamless data continuity during device changes. Mobimatter provides guidance throughout the transfer. Using this method avoids conflicts between multiple active eSIMs, prevents accidental data usage on old devices, and guarantees fast Canadian network connectivity on your new iPhone immediately.
25. Which phones support eSIM in Canada?
Modern phones released after 2020 generally support eSIM in Canada. Apple iPhones XS, XR, 11–15 series, Google Pixel 3+ to Pixel 7, Samsung Galaxy S20, S21, Z Fold/Flip, and select Huawei, Oppo, and Xiaomi models are compatible. Check Settings → Cellular/Network → Add eSIM for confirmation. Mobimatter offers a device compatibility guide. Ensuring your phone supports eSIM avoids activation problems and ensures smooth connectivity across Canadian networks. Dual SIM support allows simultaneous use of home and Canada eSIMs for data, calls, and messaging. Verifying device compatibility in advance guarantees a hassle-free travel experience.
26. How to transfer eSIM from iPhone to Android in Canada?
Direct transfer between iPhone and Android is not possible due to platform restrictions. Instead, request a new QR code from Mobimatter. On Android, go to Settings → Network → SIM Manager → Add eSIM → Scan QR, or enter SM-DP+ server details manually. Label the plan, remove the eSIM from iPhone to prevent conflicts, and activate the Android eSIM. Mobimatter provides step-by-step instructions. This ensures uninterrupted connectivity while switching platforms, letting you continue using Canadian data plans seamlessly.
27. How to delete eSIM from an iPhone used in Canada?
Go to Settings → Cellular → Select the eSIM plan → Remove Cellular Plan. Confirm removal. This deletes the eSIM from your device but does not cancel your plan. If you wish to reinstall later, request a new QR code via Mobimatter. Deleting unused eSIMs avoids confusion, prevents accidental usage, and frees space for future profiles. Follow Mobimatter’s guidance to ensure proper removal without disrupting your connectivity or data plan.
28. How to set up eSIM on an iPhone while in Canada?
Connect your iPhone to Wi-Fi, go to Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM, and scan the QR code or enter SM-DP+ server details manually. Label the plan for easy identification (e.g., “Canada eSIM”) and set it as your data line. Activation connects your phone to Canadian networks instantly. The setup is fast, digital, and secure. Mobimatter provides detailed guidance and troubleshooting for smooth installation. Ensure your phone is unlocked and compatible to prevent issues.
29. How to add an eSIM to an iPhone while traveling to Canada?
Go to Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM → Use QR Code. Scan the Mobimatter QR or follow the manual setup. Label your plan clearly and set it as default for data. Your iPhone will instantly connect to Canadian networks. This method works for both new and replacement eSIMs, saving you from airport queues, SIM card swaps, and extra roaming costs while ensuring smooth connectivity throughout your trip.
30. Is my phone eSIM compatible for use in Canada?
Check Settings → Cellular/Network → Add eSIM. If the option appears, your phone supports eSIM. Ensure the device is unlocked, as carrier-locked phones may block activation. Compatible devices include iPhone XS and newer, Google Pixel 3+, Samsung Galaxy S20+, and other modern flagship Androids. Mobimatter provides a complete compatibility guide. Verifying your device beforehand ensures a smooth Canada eSIM setup, allowing immediate access to local networks and hassle-free travel connectivity.