Can You Use Your Phone in Canada? What Travelers Need to Know in 2025

Yes, most modern smartphones will work in Canada, as long as they are unlocked and compatible with Canadian network frequencies.

Staying connected while traveling is crucial for navigation, sharing experiences, accessing vital information, and keeping in touch with family and friends. This guide covers everything you need to know regarding using your phone in Canada, from device compatibility to choosing the most suitable connectivity choices.

Phone Compatibility with Canadian Networks: What You Need to Know

Understanding Canadian Mobile Networks and Frequencies

Canada primarily uses GSM networks for mobile communications, which is the same standard used in most countries worldwide. The major Canadian carriers—Bell, Rogers, and Telus—operate networks using specific frequency bands that your device must support to connect properly.

Canadian networks operate on the following frequencies:

• 3G: 850 MHz & 1700 MHz
• 4G/LTE: 600 MHz (Band 71), 700 MHz (Band 12, Band 13, Band 17 & Band 29), 850 MHz (Band 5), 1700 MHz (Band 4 & Band 66), 1900 MHz (Band 2) & 2600 MHz (Band 7 & Band 38)
• 5G NR: 600 MHz (n71), 1700 MHz (n66), 2500 MHz (n41), 2600 MHz (n38) & 3500 MHz (n78)

If you purchased your phone in North America, it likely supports these frequency bands already. However, phones purchased in Asia, Europe, or Oceania may have different frequency support, potentially limiting connectivity in Canada.

How to Check if Your Phone Will Work in Canada

Follow these steps to verify your phone's compatibility with Canadian networks:

1. Check your phone's specifications: Look up your device's technical specifications online or in the user manual to see which frequency bands it supports.
2. Use an online compatibility checker: Websites like Kimovil offer tools to check if your specific phone model will work in Canada. Simply search for your phone model and check its compatibility with Canadian networks.
3. Check your IMEI number: Canadian carriers like Bell provide online device-compatibility checkers where you can enter your 15-digit IMEI number (dial *#06# on your phone to find it) to confirm compatibility.
4. Contact your carrier: Your home carrier's customer service can tell you if your device will work in Canada and what roaming options are available.

Connectivity Options for Travelers to Canada

Once you've confirmed your phone is compatible with Canadian frequencies, it’s time to choose the best way to stay connected.

Data and connectivity in Canada

There are various options to how you can remain connected in Canada, namely:

• International Roaming
• Local Canadian SIM card
• Travel SIM card
• Travel eSIM (recommended for eSIM-compatible devices)

Key Considerations

• Check if your device is unlocked: You’ll need an unlocked phone to use a local SIM or eSIM.
• Check if your phone is eSIM-compatible: If yes, this gives you a faster, more flexible and cost-effective option.

Read our previous blog post for more information on some of which SIM cards to get in Canada, and how to get them.

The good news is that if your phone is eSIM-compatible, it is almost certainly going to be able to use the same frequency bands in Canada, which means - yes, you will be able to use your phone in Canada!

Stay Connected Across Canada with a Nomad eSIM

If your device supports eSIM, a Nomad travel eSIM is one of the most convenient and affordable ways to stay connected while exploring Canada.

With data plans starting from just USD $3/GB, Nomad offers flexible options to match any travel itinerary — from short city breaks to multi-week adventures. Once activated, your eSIM automatically connects to the strongest available local network, ensuring fast and reliable coverage whether you're in downtown Toronto or driving through the Rockies. No physical SIM swap, no store visits—just seamless connectivity from the moment you land.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Will my phone work in Canada?

Most modern smartphones—including iPhones, Samsung Galaxy, and Google Pixel models—will work in Canada if they are unlocked and support the frequency bands used by Canadian networks. Check your device specs or use an online compatibility tool to confirm.

Do I need to unlock my phone to use a local SIM or eSIM in Canada?

Yes, your phone must be carrier-unlocked to use a local Canadian SIM or a travel eSIM like Nomad. If it’s locked, you’ll need to use international roaming through your home carrier.

Can I use both my home number and a Canadian eSIM at the same time?

Yes—if your phone supports dual SIM (e.g., one physical SIM + one eSIM). You can keep your physical SIM active for calls and texts while using the eSIM for data during your trip.

What happens if I use up all my data on a Nomad eSIM?

Your connection will pause until you purchase another plan. There are no surprise overage charges, and additional data can be purchased easily through the app or web store. To stay connected without interruption, you can buy a data add-on in advance through the Nomad app or web store.

Can I install and activate the eSIM once I arrive in Canada?

You can, but it’s strongly recommended to install your Nomad eSIM before you depart, as you’ll need internet access to complete the setup. Installing ahead of time ensures you’re connected as soon as you land.

Does Nomad eSIM support hotspot and data sharing in Canada?

Yes. Most devices allow you to use Nomad eSIMs to create a personal hotspot, which is great for sharing data across your laptop, tablet, or with travel companions.

How To Get Started with a Nomad eSIM

1. Visit the the Nomad Web Store or download the Nomad iOS/Android app
2. Choose a eSIM plan with sufficient data suitable for your needs, and complete the check out process.
3. Upon successful purchase, you will receive an email that includes the installation and activation instructions for your plan.
4. Install the eSIM before your trip to ensure immediate connectivity upon arrival

Note: Since you will need a stable internet connection to purchase and install your eSIM, it is best to buy your eSIM before you fly, while you’re still at home or connected to WiFi before takeoff.