Getting a Canadian phone number is one of the first things you need to do after arriving.
It sounds simple, but there’s a catch:
Many phone plans in Canada require a credit check.
If you’re new to the country, you likely don’t have a credit history yet—which limits your options at the start.
This guide breaks down the best phone plan options for newcomers, what to avoid, and how to upgrade once you’re settled.
Last updated: April 2026.
The Short Answer
- Best overall (no credit needed): Public Mobile, Lucky Mobile
- Best balance of price + reliability: Fido, Koodo
- Best premium networks: Rogers, Bell, Telus
If you are just arriving:
Start with a prepaid plan. Upgrade later.
Prepaid vs Postpaid: What Matters
Prepaid (Best for Newcomers)
- No credit check
- No contract
- Pay upfront
This is the easiest way to get set up quickly.
Postpaid (Better Later)
- Monthly billing
- Often requires credit history
- Access to better plans and device financing
Most newcomers switch to postpaid after 3–6 months.
Best Prepaid Phone Plans (No Credit Required)
Public Mobile
- Uses the Telus network
- Competitive pricing
- Good nationwide coverage
Lucky Mobile
- Owned by Bell
- Simple, predictable plans
- Easy to set up
Chatr Mobile
- Owned by Rogers
- Good coverage in major cities
These are your easiest entry points if you have no credit history.
Best Mid-Tier Options (After You’re Settled)
Fido
- Rogers network
- Frequent promotions
Koodo
- Telus network
- Strong value plans
These are often the best balance of cost and quality once you can pass a credit check.
Premium Carriers (Most Expensive)
- Rogers
- Bell
- Telus
These offer:
- best coverage
- fastest speeds
But they are usually not worth it when you are starting out.
Typical Monthly Costs
- Budget prepaid: $25–$40
- Mid-range plans: $40–$60
- Premium plans: $70–$100+
Canada has some of the highest mobile costs among developed countries.
What You Actually Need at the Start
Keep it simple:
- Canadian phone number
- Basic data (10–20GB is usually enough)
- Reliable coverage
You do not need:
- the best plan
- the fastest speeds
- a long-term contract
How This Fits Into Your Setup
Your phone plan connects to everything else:
- job applications
- banking verification
- rental applications
If you are just getting started, begin here:
First 10 Things to Do When You Arrive in Canada
Then set up your finances:
Best Bank Accounts for Newcomers to Canada
And start building credit:
What Newcomers Often Get Wrong
- choosing expensive plans too early
- signing contracts without understanding terms
- waiting too long to get a number
The best approach is simple:
Start cheap. Upgrade later.
The Mr. Thrifty Take
Your phone plan is not a long-term decision.
It is a short-term tool to get you set up.
Do not overthink it.
Get something that works, then optimise once everything else is stable.
Bottom Line
- Start with a prepaid plan (no credit needed)
- Expect to pay $30–$60 per month initially
- Switch to a better plan once you have credit history
That is all you need to do.