Finding Your Perfect eSIM for Canada

International travel through Canada offers everything from the urban bustle of Toronto to the serene landscapes of the Rockies. However, navigating these vast distances requires a reliable internet connection for maps, translation, and staying in touch. Traditional roaming fees can ruin a travel budget, and hunting for a local sim at Canadian airports is a hassle.

The modern solution is the eSIM (embedded SIM), also known as an e-sim. These digital plans allow you to connect to local networks like Rogers, Bell, and Telus immediately upon landing. Whether you are planning a short trip to Canada or will be traveling in Canada for months, an eSIM card offers the flexibility you need.

This guide analyzes the best eSIM providers for 2025 based on coverage, speed, price, and ease of use to help you with finding the best option.

Our Recommendation: eSIM4

For Canada travel, we recommend eSIM4. This service delivers reliable connectivity on primary networks (Rogers, Bell, Telus), transparent pricing, and trusted performance for over 100,000 travelers.

Why eSIM4 Leads for Canada

  • Major Networks: Connects to Rogers, Bell, and Telus for best-in-class coverage.
  • Savings: Save up to 22% compared to standard rates.
  • Flexibility: Offers fixed data plans from 1GB to 20GB and Unlimited options.
  • Convenience: Optional app to manage usage, recharge, and auto-connect on arrival.
  • Support: 24/7 customer support included.

Quick Comparison: Canada eSIMs

Compare the top eSIM providers at a glance.

Rank Provider Rating Starting Price Best For
1 ⭐ eSIM4 4.9/5 $6.98 Best Value Pick
2 Saily 4.7/5 $5.03 Security Features
3 Airalo 4.7/5 $7.00 Regional Coverage
4 Jetpac 4.5/5 $2.00 Cheapest Entry
5 aloSIM 4.4/5 $5.50 Phone Number
6 Nomad 4.6/5 $5.00 UX / Business
7 GigSky 4.2/5 $6.99 Cruises
8 Instabridge 4.0/5 $3.00 Hybrid Wi-Fi
9 Holafly 4.0/5 $7.90/day Unlimited Data

What to Look for When Choosing an eSIM

Before you buy eSIM plans, consider these factors to ensure you get the best eSIM card value for your trip:

Factor Details
Network Reliability Canada is huge. To ensure you have the best coverage, check that your provider partners with major networks (Bell, Telus, Rogers). You want your phone to work fine in both cities and rural highways.
Data Requirements Be realistic. If you rely on Google Maps and Instagram, you’ll need a lot of data—more than someone who just checks email. Streaming video uses much data quickly. Look for plans that ensure high-speed data every day.
Trip Length Match the validity period (7, 15, or data for 30 days) to your itinerary.
Tethering (Hotspot) If you need to work on a laptop or share data with another traveller, ensure the eSIM supports hotspot sharing so you don’t end up running out of data.
Total Cost Look beyond the “per GB” price. Prepay options often save money. Check for hidden fees and ensure the total package fits your budget.
Compatibility Ensure your phone supports eSIM technology. Most new phone models do.

Top 9 eSIM Providers for Canada

With so many eSIM companies and eSIM brands available (including competitors like Airhub), it can be hard to choose. Based on recent tests, here are the best eSIM options for Canada.

2

Saily

Security Specialist

Rating
4.7/5
Network
Major Carriers
Support
24/7

Saily is a favorite for its focus on digital safety. It connects seamlessly to 4G/LTE/5G networks. It is very easy to install your eSIM and activate the eSIM through their user-friendly app.

DataDurationPrice
1 GB7 Days$5.03
3 GB30 Days$12.34
5 GB30 Days$17.09
10 GB30 Days$29.44
20 GB30 Days$41.79

Pros

  • Strong security features
  • Easy installation
  • Excellent app interface

Cons

  • No “pay-as-you-go” flexibility
  • Slightly higher price per GB on larger plans
3

Airalo

Multi-Country Specialist

Rating
4.7/5
Network
Bell
Support
24/7

Airalo is highly reliable and utilizes the Bell network. If you are looking for different eSIM regions, their North American eSIM plans allow you to cross the border without losing service.

DataDurationPrice
1 GB3 Days$7.00
3 GB7 Days$9.00
5 GB15 Days$15.00
10 GB30 Days$23.00
Unlimited7 Days$32.00
Unlimited30 Days$85.00

Pros

  • Massive range of plans
  • Reliable app
  • Transparent pricing

Cons

  • Slightly more expensive starting price
  • ID verification occasionally required
4

Jetpac

Budget Choice

Rating
4.5/5
Network
Rogers
Support
24/7

Jetpac is perfect for short layovers or light data users. It offers incredibly affordable prepaid data packages, including a popular 5GB option.

DataDurationPrice
1 GB4 Days$2.00
3 GB7 Days$14.00
5 GB30 Days$16.99
10 GB30 Days$24.99
20 GB30 Days$65.00

Pros

  • Extremely cheap entry point
  • “SmartDelay” lounge perks

Cons

  • Data-only (no calls)
  • Confusing pricing tier for 20GB vs 30GB
5

aloSIM

Calling Capabilities

Rating
4.4/5
Network
Rogers/Telus
Support
24/7

aloSIM stands out because it helps you handle SMS, calls and texts via the “Hushed” app integration. This provides comprehensive phone service without a traditional SIM.

DataDurationPrice
1 GB7 Days$5.50
2 GB15 Days$11.00
3 GB30 Days$15.00
5 GB30 Days$18.00
10 GB30 Days$35.00

Pros

  • Access to a phone number
  • Reliable 5G connections via Rogers/Telus

Cons

  • No unlimited data options
  • Voice features require secondary app
6

Nomad

Best for Business

Rating
4.6/5
Network
Telus/Bell
Support
Ticket

Nomad offers a professional experience. Their tracking features are great if you purchase 10GB of data and need to monitor your usage closely.

DataDurationPrice
1 GB4 DaysFREE (Trial)
1 GB7 Days$5.00
3 GB30 Days$10.00
5 GB30 Days$15.00
Unlimited7 Days$41.00

Pros

  • Beautiful interface
  • Free trial option
  • Flexible plan sizing

Cons

  • Customer support is ticket-based
7

GigSky

Offshore & Visa Users

Rating
4.2/5
Network
Multiple
Support
In-App

GigSky works on many cruise lines and offshore areas, making it a unique Canada eSIM option for sea travelers.

DataDurationPrice
100 MB7 DaysFREE
1 GB7 Days$6.99
3 GB15 Days$14.02
5 GB30 Days$18.69
10 GB30 Days$34.39

Pros

  • Works on land and sea (cruises)
  • Visa card perks

Cons

  • Premium pricing
  • Strict data throttling on “unlimited” plans
8

Instabridge

Wi-Fi Hunters

Rating
4.0/5
Network
Bell/Telus
Support
Email

Instabridge combines a prepaid eSIM with a massive database of WiFi passwords to help you stay connected wherever you go.

DataDurationPrice
1 GB7 Days$3.00
3 GB15 Days$7.50
10 GB30 Days$22.00
Pay-As-You-Go$3.00/GB

Pros

  • Unique Wi-Fi map feature
  • Cheap pay-as-you-go rates

Cons

  • Customer support can be slow
  • Call/text not supported
9

Holafly

Unlimited Data

Rating
4.0/5
Network
Bell/Telus
Support
24/7

If you need a provider that can offer unlimited data without caps, Holafly is the answer. They offer unlimited data plans for any duration.

DataDurationPrice
Unlimited1 Day$7.90
Unlimited7 Days$36.90
Unlimited15 Days$50.90
Unlimited30 Days$93.90

Pros

  • True unlimited data
  • Customizable trip duration

Cons

  • Most expensive option
  • Usually does not allow hotspot

How To Make Calls With eSIM In Canada

Most travel esim options like eSIM4 provide data-only plans, which means you’ll use internet-based calling apps like whatsapp to make phone calls while heading to Canada. However, there’s also a dedicated solution specifically designed for calling with your eSIM: Yabb.

Using Yabb for International Calls with Your eSIM

Yabb Logo

Yabb is owned by eSIM4 and provides a seamless way to make international calls using your eSIM data connection. With Yabb, you can:

Yabb Calling Features

  • Pay As You Go: Purchase calling minutes as you need them with flexible calling packages.
  • Clear Call Quality: Enjoy crystal-clear quality connections for your calls.
  • Call Anywhere: Make calls using your data to friends and family on any landline or mobile, no matter where you are in Canada.
  • Multiple Countries: Call to 200+ countries worldwide to stay in touch with family.
  • No Hidden Fees: Transparent pricing with no surprise charges or contracts.
  • Download the App: Available on both iPhone App Store and Google Play.

Yabb integrates perfectly with your eSIM4 data plan, allowing you to make calls using your data plan without relying solely on WhatsApp, FaceTime, or other apps. This is especially useful if you need to call local Canadian numbers for bookings, reservations, or emergencies while travelling in Canada.

Learn More About Yabb Calling →

How To Send Text Messages With eSIM

Sending text messages internationally is easy with eSIM, and if you’re using eSIM4, you have the option to use Yabb for SMS messaging as well. Most esim providers offer data-only plans, but Yabb provides a dedicated SMS service that works perfectly with your travel esim setup.

Yabb SMS Messaging Service

Yabb Logo

Yabb allows you to send and receive text messages to 200+ countries, making it ideal for staying in touch with family while you’re using data from your eSIM in Canada. Here’s what you need to know:

Yabb SMS Features

  • Pay As You Go: Purchase different esim data packages as needed – from 100 SMS credits to 5000+ credits.
  • Flexible Packages: Choose from various SMS credit options without committing to contracts.
  • Global Coverage: Send text messages to friends and family across 200+ countries.
  • Text Anywhere: Send and receive SMS messages from anywhere in Canada using your eSIM.
  • No Hidden Fees: No hidden charges or surprise fees – what you buy is what you get.
  • Receive Messages: Get text messages to your Yabb number included with your SMS credit package.

When you’re travelling in Canada with an eSIM4 data plan, having Yabb SMS as a backup ensures you can always reach out to friends, family, or make important reservations via text message. This combination of esim data and SMS service gives you complete connectivity without relying solely on data-dependent messaging apps.

Learn More About Yabb SMS →

How to Install and Use Your eSIM

You don’t need to buy a physical card anymore. Just follow these steps to activate your eSIM:

  1. Verify Compatibility: Check if your device support eSIM technology. Ensure it is unlocked.
    • iPhones: iPhone XR/XS and newer.
    • Android: Samsung S20 and newer, Google Pixel 3 and newer.
  2. Purchase Before You Fly: You can buy eSIM plans from home. Download the app and purchase while on WiFi.
  3. Installation:
    • Direct: Most apps allow you to install directly.
    • QR Code: Alternatively, they will email you a code. Go to phone settings, select “Cellular”, and scan the QR code.
  4. Activation: Turn on the line when you land. You can easily top up the eSIM if your data balance runs low, so you never have to buy another physical SIM.

Pro Tip: If you want to keep your UK SIM active (or any home SIM) to stay in touch with family back home in the UK, you can run both your physical SIM card and your eSIM simultaneously. This ensures you can receive urgent calls while using the eSIM for cheap data.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep my WhatsApp number?

Yes. Even if you have used an eSIM, your WhatsApp number stays the same.

Does 5G work in Canada?

Yes, Canada has extensive 5G networks. Most top-tier providers (eSIM4, Saily, Airalo, Nomad) support 5G in urban centers like Vancouver, Toronto, and Montreal.

Can I make regular phone calls?

Most travel eSIMs are data-only. To make calls, use apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime, or Skype. If you need a traditional phone number, aloSIM is your best option.

Why is my data slow?

If you are in a remote area (like the Rockies or Yukon), coverage may drop to 3G or 4G. Toggle “Airplane Mode” on and off to force the phone to reconnect to the strongest nearby tower.