blog image

The Ultimate Student Guide: Getting a SIM Card Before You Land in Canada

Preparing to study in Canada is an exciting journey, but staying connected should be part of your plan long before your flight takes off. For international students, having a student SIM card in Canada ready before arrival can make a huge difference. From navigating your new city to contacting your university, housing providers, or family back home, mobile connectivity is essential from day one. 

With Unlimit Mobile, students can arrive in Canada already connected no roaming fees, no airport SIM hunts, and no unnecessary stress. This guide explains why getting a SIM card before landing is smart, what type of plan works best for students, and how Unlimit Mobile makes the process simple and affordable.  

Why Getting a SIM Card Before Arrival Matters 

Landing in a new country can be overwhelming. Having your mobile service ready helps you start your Canadian student life smoothly. 

Instant Local Connectivity 

A Canadian phone number allows you to: 

  • Contact landlords, roommates, and classmates 

  • Receive university updates and orientation details 

  • Use local services that require SMS verification 

With Unlimit Mobile, your Canadian number is ready the moment you arrive. 

Avoid Expensive Roaming Charges 

Using your home SIM card in Canada often results in high international roaming fees. A local Unlimit Mobile prepaid SIM connects you directly to Canadian networks, helping you save money from day one. 

Stay Connected the Moment You Land 

With a SIM or eSIM activated before arrival, you can: 

  • Order a ride from the airport 

  • Use maps for navigation 

  • Message family to confirm your safe arrival 

No need to rely on public Wi-Fi or search for a SIM store after a long flight. 

One Less Thing to Worry About 

Moving abroad comes with enough challenges. Sorting out your phone plan in advance means you can focus on settling into campus life instead of handling logistics.

Canada Prepaid vs Postpaid Plans: What’s Best for Students? 

Choosing the right type of plan is crucial for international students. 

Why Prepaid Plans Are Ideal 

Most students prefer prepaid SIM cards, especially when arriving in Canada for the first time. With prepaid plans from Unlimit Mobile, you get: 

  • No contracts 

  • No credit checks 

  • Full control over monthly spending 

  • Easy plan changes or cancellations 

Postpaid Plans: Not Always Student-Friendly 

Postpaid plans usually require: 

  • Canadian credit history 

  • Long-term contracts 

  • Higher monthly costs 

For new international students, prepaid plans are simpler, faster, and more budget-friendly. 

 

Physical SIM vs eSIM: Which Should You Choose? 

Physical SIM Cards 

A traditional SIM card that you insert into your phone. This option is great if: 

  • Your phone doesn’t support eSIM 

  • You prefer a physical backup 

eSIM: The Fastest Option 

An Unlimit Mobile eSIM is delivered digitally via email and activated by scanning a QR code. It’s perfect if: 

  • Your phone supports eSIM 

  • You want instant activation 

  • You’re ordering at the last minute 

No shipping delays, no physical card required. 

 

Understanding Student Mobile Plan Costs in Canada

Mobile plans in Canada vary depending on data and features: 

  • Basic prepaid plans: approx. $30–$35 CAD/month 

  • High-data or unlimited plans: approx. $40–$80 CAD/month 

Unlimit Mobile focuses on student-friendly pricing, offering flexible prepaid plans that balance affordability with generous data allowances ideal for online classes, streaming, and everyday use. 

Student Discounts & Special Offers 

Students should always look out for promotions. Unlimit Mobile regularly provides: 

  • Bonus data 

  • Seasonal student deals 

  • Affordable prepaid student plans 

These offers help students stay connected without stretching their budgets.

Provider 

Plan 

Data 

Price 

Unlimit Mobile 

Unlimited Rizz 

75 GB + Unlimited Calls & Texts 

 CAD $ 35 

Unlimit Mobile 

Unlimited Slay 

100 GB + Unlimited Calls & Texts 

 CAD $ 40 

Unlimit Mobile 

Unlimited Goat 

120 GB + Unlimited Calls & Texts 

 CAD $ 50 

Canadian SIM 

New Comer Plans 

50 GB + Unlimited Calls & Texts 

CAD $ 30 

Canadian SIM 

New Comer Plans 

100 GB + Unlimited Calls & Texts 

 CAD $ 40 

Canadian SIM 

Tourist Travel Plans 

70 GB + Unlimited Calls & Texts 

CAD $ 35 

How to Get a SIM Card Before You Land in Canada 

Order Online in Advance 

With Unlimit Mobile, students can order a SIM card online before arriving in Canada. Physical SIMs can be shipped internationally, while eSIMs are delivered instantly by email. 

Choose an eSIM for Instant Setup 

If you’re short on time, an Unlimit Mobile eSIM can be purchased and activated within minutes perfect for last-minute travel plans. 

University & Student Program Support 

Some universities offer SIM-related support during orientation, but having your Unlimit Mobile SIM ready beforehand ensures uninterrupted connectivity from arrival.  

Why Students Choose Unlimit Mobile 

Unlimit Mobile is built with students in mind, offering: 

  • Prepaid plans with no contracts 

  • Easy online ordering before arrival 

  • eSIM and physical SIM options 

  • Affordable pricing and flexible data plans 

  • Simple activation with no credit checks 

Whether you’re studying for a semester or a full degree, Unlimit Mobile adapts to your student lifestyle.  

Final Thoughts 

Getting a SIM card before you land in Canada is a smart move for any international student. It saves money, reduces stress, and ensures you’re connected from the moment you arrive. 

With Unlimit Mobile, students get reliable service, flexible prepaid plans, and hassle free activation all designed to support student life in Canada. Plan ahead, stay connected, and start your Canadian journey with confidence. 

 

FAQs: Getting a SIM Card Before You Land in Canada 

1. Why should students get a SIM card before arriving in Canada? 

Getting a SIM card before arrival allows students to stay connected from day one. With Unlimit Mobile, you can call a ride, contact your university, reach your landlord, and message family immediately after landing without relying on airport Wi Fi or paying roaming fees.  

2. Is it possible to order a Canada SIM card from abroad? 

Yes. Unlimit Mobile allows students to order a SIM card online before arriving in Canada. You can choose either a physical SIM (with international delivery) or an eSIM delivered instantly by email.  

3. What is the best SIM card option for international students in Canada? 

For most international students, a prepaid SIM card is the best option. Unlimit Mobile prepaid plans require no credit checks, no long-term contracts, and offer affordable data options designed specifically for student needs. 

4. What is the difference between prepaid and postpaid SIM plans? 

Prepaid plans are paid in advance and give you full control over your spending. Postpaid plans are billed monthly and often require a Canadian credit history and contracts. Unlimit Mobile focuses on prepaid plans, which are ideal for students and newcomers.  

5. Do I need a Canadian credit history to get a SIM card? 

No. Unlimit Mobile prepaid SIM cards do not require a credit check or Canadian credit history, making them perfect for international and first-time students. 

6. What is an eSIM and is it better than a physical SIM? 

An eSIM is a digital SIM that can be activated by scanning a QR code no physical card needed. If your phone supports eSIM, it’s the fastest way to get connected before arriving in Canada. Unlimit Mobile offers both eSIM and physical SIM options.  

7. Will my phone work with a Canadian SIM card? 

Your phone must be unlocked to work with a Canadian SIM card. Most modern smartphones are compatible with Unlimit Mobile SIMs. For eSIM, your device must support eSIM technology.  

8. How much do student mobile plans cost in Canada? 

Student prepaid plans typically range from $15–$30 CAD per month for basic data and up to $40–$80 CAD for high-data or unlimited plans. Unlimit Mobile offers student-friendly pricing with flexible data options.  

9. Can I use my SIM card immediately after landing in Canada? 

Yes. If you activate your Unlimit Mobile SIM or eSIM before arrival, your phone will connect to the Canadian network as soon as you land. 

10. Are there special SIM card deals for students? 

Yes. Unlimit Mobile regularly offers student discounts, bonus data, and seasonal promotions to help students save on mobile costs.  

11. Can I change or cancel my plan if my needs change? 

Yes. Unlimit Mobile prepaid plans are flexible and can be changed or canceled without penalties, making them ideal for students with short-term or uncertain stays.  

12. Is a Canadian phone number important for students? 

Yes. A Canadian number is often required for university communication, housing, banking, delivery apps, and verification codes. Unlimit Mobile provides a local Canadian number with every plan.  

13. Can exchange or short-term students use Unlimit Mobile? 

Absolutely. Unlimit Mobile is ideal for exchange students, study-abroad participants, and short-term programs, offering prepaid plans with no contracts or long commitments.  

14. Why should students choose Unlimit Mobile? 

Students choose Unlimit Mobile because it offers: 

  • No contracts or credit checks 

  • Prepaid student-friendly plans 

  • eSIM and physical SIM options 

  • Easy online ordering before arrival 

  • Affordable pricing and reliable coverage  

15. When should I order my SIM card before traveling to Canada? 

It’s best to order your Unlimit Mobile SIM at least 1–2 weeks before arrival if choosing a physical SIM. For eSIMs, you can order even one day before travel and activate instantly.

Blog image

Travel Tips

Best Mobile Networks in Canada for Students: Affordable & Reliable Options by Unlimit Mobile

Looking for the best mobile network in Canada for students? Discover independent cellphone companies, cheapest phone plans, unlimited data options, and SIM cards with Unlimit Mobile

Discover more

Blog image

Travel Tips

Best SIM Card in Canada for International Students – Complete Guide

Looking for the best SIM card in Canada for international students? Compare Canada SIM card plans, unlimited data, prepaid tourist SIMs, and Canadian SIM cards in India with Unlimit Mobile.

Discover more

Blog image

Travel Tips

USA SIM Cards for College and University Students – A Complete Guide

Best SIM card for college students in the USA with Unlimit Mobile. Affordable, prepaid, and campus-friendly plans for university and graduate students.

Discover more

Blog image

Travel Tips

Unlimit Mobile vs Canadian SIM – Which is the better Canada SIM Card

Compare Unlimit Mobile & Canadian SIM to find the best prepaid SIM for Canada. See plans, prices, coverage & which suits your travel needs.

Discover more

Blog image

Travel Tips

Digital Nomad Visa USA – Requirements, Process & Costs

Discover how to become a Digital Nomad in the USA. Learn about visa types, stay duration, requirements, documents, costs, and step-by-step application process for working remotely in the U.S. in 2025.

Discover more

Blog image

Travel Tips

Driving in USA – Licenses, Rules, Foreign License Guide & Expert Tips

Planning to drive in the USA? Learn everything about driving rules in USA, licenses, driving in USA with foreign license, international driver license USA, parking, tolls, fuel, and expert tips for a safe and smooth road trip.

Discover more

Blog image

Travel Tips

Best US Banks for Expats in 2025 – Complete Guide

Looking for the best US bank for expats in 2025? Discover how to open a bank account for expats, explore the best international banks for expats

Discover more

Blog image

Travel Tips

How to Pay Taxes in Canada - Types, Deadlines, Rules

Learn how to pay taxes in Canada, including different tax types, key deadlines, and essential rules to stay compliant and avoid penalties.

Discover more

Blog image

Travel Tips

Canada Prepaid SIM Card Review - Unlimit Mobile vs Public Mobile

Compare Unlimit Mobile and Public Mobile to find the best Canada SIM Card for your needs. Discover pricing, plan options, Canada SIM Card coverage

Discover more

Blog image

Travel Tips

Canada SIM Card Review – Unlimit Mobile vs Lucky Mobile

Compare Unlimit Mobile and Lucky Mobile in this detailed Canada SIM Card review. Explore prepaid plans, eSIM Canada options, pricing, and features

Discover more

Blog image

Travel Tips

Scholarship in USA – Types, Requirements & How to Apply

Discover top Scholarships in USA for international students, including Scholarships for MBA in USA and MS programs

Discover more

Blog image

Travel Tips

Unlimit Mobile VS Koodo Mobile - Best Student SIM Card for Canada

Comparison guide of Unlimit Mobile and Koodo Mobile plans for students in Canada. Discover the best SIM and eSIM options with affordable data

Discover more

Blog image

Travel Tips

Best Prepaid eSIM USA for Tourists in 2025

Looking for the Best Prepaid eSIM USA in 2025? Discover the Cheapest eSIM Plan USA, top eSIM providers, and student SIM discounts.

Discover more

Blog image

Travel Tips

Unlimit Mobile – Best eSIM for Canada Travel

Stay connected in Canada with Unlimit Mobile. Affordable Canada eSIM and prepaid SIM cards with fast data, local number, and instant activation

Discover more

Blog image

Travel Tips

10 Fun Facts About Canada – Landscapes, Cities & More

Discover 10 fun facts about Canada, from stunning landscapes and iconic cities to famous landmarks and delicious food.

Discover more

Blog image

Travel Tips

10 interesting facts about USA - Landscapes, Cities & More

Discover 10 fascinating facts about the USA — from breathtaking national parks and iconic cities to surprising cultural gems. Explore the diverse landscapes, vibrant lifestyles, and hidden wonders

Discover more

Blog image

Travel Tips

A Complete Guide to Living in Canada for Students & Expats

Discover everything you need to know about living in Canada as a student or expat — from cost of living and healthcare to work opportunities, culture, and lifestyle tips.

Discover more

Blog image

Travel Tips

A Complete Guide to Living in USA for Students & Expats

Explore everything about living in the USA as a student or expat — from visas and housing to culture, costs, and career tips. Your complete guide to starting life in America with confidence.

Discover more

Blog image

Travel Tips

Medical Insurance for Foreigners in USA – Complete Guide

Planning a trip or stay in the U.S.? Understanding healthcare is crucial. This guide explains why Medical Insurance for Foreigners in USA is essential

Discover more

Blog image

Travel Tips

Medical Insurance in Canada for Foreigners – Complete Guide

Learn how medical insurance works in Canada for foreigners, students, and expats. Understand coverage options, costs, and how to choose the best health plan for your stay in Canada.

Discover more