Getting a Postpaid Sim Card as a visitor in Canada

As a visitor in Canada, staying connected is of high importance for smooth navigation, . While prepaid options are straightforward and widely used, many visitors wonder about the feasibility of acquiring a postpaid phone number during their stay. In a previous post, I wrote about prepaid options for acquiring a sim card in Canada as a visitor. Read it here (INSERT LINK). In this post I will be showing you different options of getting a postpaid line as a visitor in Canada. You will also learn the benefits of postpaid plans against prepaid and all options you could explore.

Why Postpaid Phone Plan?

Postpaid plans, revered for their convenience and often more extensive features, are typically designed for residents and citizens. However, that doesn’t mean visitors can't benefit from them. The key lies in understanding the requirements and finding a plan that suits short-term needs without the long-term commitments.

Post Paid plans are cheaper in tariff than prepaid options and also offers more flexibility. It could be a path to building a credit score/plan as a visitor who is looking long term in Canada.

How To Become Eligible

Most Canadian providers require two primary things for a postpaid connection: a Canadian credit history and a valid Canadian address. As a visitor, the credit history part can be challenging. But don’t lose hope just yet! Some carriers are more lenient and may accept alternative forms of identification or deposits.

Prepare to present your passport, visitor visa, and a Canadian address (even if it’s temporary, like a hotel or a rental). Some carriers might also ask for additional identification, so having extra documents on hand can be helpful.

Three Options of Owing a Postpaid Sim Card as a Visitor

1. Security Deposit : If you’re keen on a postpaid plan, be prepared to pay a security deposit. This deposit varies but can be a few hundred dollars, acting as a safety net for the provider. The good news? It’s usually refundable at the end of your contract or after a certain period of consistent payments.

2. Short-Term Contracts: The Ideal Choice

3. The Friend or Family Route: Sharing a Postpaid Plan

• Adding a Line: The existing postpaid user can add an additional line to their account for you. This is often more straightforward than setting up a new account, as it bypasses the need for a Canadian credit history.

• Shared Responsibility: The primary account holder remains responsible for the payments and any contractual obligations. This means you won’t need to undergo a credit check or pay a hefty deposit.

• Cost-Effective: Adding a line is usually more economical than having a separate plan, with many carriers offering discounts for multiple lines.

Canada's diverse options for staying connected reflect its welcoming nature. Whether you opt for a standalone postpaid plan, join an existing user’s plan, prepaid plan or leverage a corporate or educational institution’s offer, you’ll find the Canadian telecom landscape accommodating. Choose what aligns best with your duration of stay, budget, and connectivity needs. Enjoy your Canadian journey with the world at your fingertips!