When traveling to Canada or venturing abroad, maintaining seamless connectivity is crucial for various reasons such as navigating new places, staying in touch with loved ones, managing work remotely, and ensuring access to emergency services. The advent of eSIM technology offers travelers a more flexible and convenient way to stay connected without the physical limitations of traditional SIM cards. After extensive research and comparison, we have compiled a comprehensive guide to the 5 Best eSIM Cards for Canadians in search of reliable global connectivity. Our top picks, including Airalo for its user-friendly setup and widespread coverage, Alosim—a Canadian company known for its tailored plans and exceptional customer support, and Worldsim with its vast international coverage and flexible data options, are highlighted for their ability to meet the diverse needs of travelers, ensuring you remain connected, informed, and secure wherever your journey takes you.

Quick Access Links

1. Best eSIM Overall – Airalo
2. Best eSIM for customizable plans – Alosim 
3. Best International eSIM – Worldsim
4. Best Short-Term Trip eSIM – KnowRoaming
5. Best Connectivity eSIM – oneSIM

What is an eSIM?

An eSIM, or Embedded Subscriber Identity Module, represents a significant leap forward in telecommunications technology, marking a departure from traditional physical SIM cards. Embedded directly into a device, an eSIM is a reprogrammable digital SIM that allows users to activate a cellular plan from a carrier without needing a physical SIM card. This innovation not only streamlines the process of switching between carriers but also supports multiple accounts, making it an ideal solution for international travelers and those who frequently switch between networks.

The versatility of eSIM technology lies in its ability to store multiple operator profiles simultaneously, which can be switched on the fly without the need for physical swapping. This feature is particularly beneficial for smartphones, tablets, and other smart devices, offering enhanced flexibility, improved security, and space-saving advantages. As eSIMs become increasingly prevalent, they pave the way for a new era of connectivity, enabling devices to be smaller and more connected than ever before, and providing users with unprecedented control over their mobile services.

5 Best eSIM Cards for Canadians

1.Airalo

Editorial Score:

Based on 5 categories.

8.8

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Airalo eSIM

Airalo, recognized as the best overall travel eSIM provider, has rapidly grown its customer base to five million users since its inception. Known for its unparalleled flexibility, Airalo offers a variety of plans, including data-only and comprehensive data/voice/SMS options, catering to diverse needs. It boasts extensive 5G & 4G LTE coverage, particularly in Canada, and supports mobile hotspot usage. Tuque Mobile, one of its offerings, provides plans with validity from 7 to 30 days, allowing users to select from 1GB to 10GB per purchase. Despite its vast benefits, it's important to note that voice minutes are limited to global plans, and customer support is conducted exclusively through messaging. This platform has established itself as a leader in the eSIM space, continually adapting and expanding its services to meet the evolving needs of international travelers since its early days.

Global Connectivity 9

Data Plans 9

Talk Plans 8

Customer Service 8

Pricing 10

Pros

• Extensive Coverage
• flexible Plans
• Mobile Hotspot
• Fast Local Network Connection
• No Physical SIM Required
• Competitive Pricing
• Global Reach

Cons

• Voice Minutes Only Available on Global Plans

2. Alosim

Editorial Score:

Based on 5 categories.

8.4

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Alosim eSIM

Alosim, a Canadian company, has swiftly established itself as a trusted provider in the realm of international connectivity. With a business tenure that showcases their commitment and expertise in the telecommunications field, Alosim offers travelers a dependable and efficient way to stay connected across the globe. Specializing in providing flexible and affordable SIM card solutions, Alosim caters to a wide array of connectivity needs for travelers, ensuring they remain in touch wherever their journeys may lead. As a homegrown Canadian enterprise, Alosim takes pride in understanding the unique needs of international travelers, offering tailored plans that emphasize convenience, coverage, and customer support. This dedication to delivering exceptional service has positioned Alosim as a noteworthy contender in the competitive market of eSIM card providers.

Use our Discount code ECANADANOW for an Additional 5% off.

Global Connectivity 8

Data Plans 7

Talk Plans 9

Customer Service 10

Pricing 8

Pros

• Canadian Roots
• Extensive Global Coverage
• Flexible Data Plans
• Transparent Pricing
• User-Friendly Experience
• Exceptional Customer Support

Cons

• Limited Physical Presence
• Data Limits

3. WorldSim

Editorial Score:

Based on 5 categories.

8.0

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Worldsim eSIM

Worldsim, a key player among the 5 Best eSIM Cards, has been offering affordable communication solutions to global travelers since its foundation. Renowned for providing low-cost data and voice rates in over 190 countries, Worldsim sets itself apart with unique offerings such as free incoming calls in numerous countries, no roaming fees, and a host of additional services including voicemail, caller ID, and call forwarding. Launched with the mission to eliminate the high cost of international mobile communication, Worldsim has evolved into a preferred choice for travelers seeking reliable and cost-effective connectivity. Its extensive coverage and user-centric features have solidified Worldsim's status within the elite ranks of international eSIM providers, effectively catering to the varied needs of international travelers since its inception.

Global Connectivity 10

Data Plans 7

Talk Plans 8

Customer Service 8

Pricing 7

Pros

• Free Incoming Calls
• Zero Roaming Fees
• Additional User Features
• Global Connectivity

Cons

• Detailed Pricing Needs Checked for Each Destination
• Non Competitive Data Rates

4. KnowRoaming

Editorial Score:

Based on 5 categories.

7.6

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KnowRoaming eSIM

KnowRoaming, established as a premier choice among the 5 Best eSIM Cards, has been revolutionizing the travel communications market since its inception. Specializing in eSIM solutions for short-term trips, KnowRoaming offers travelers the ability to avoid hefty roaming fees by utilizing local data plans across over 190 countries. Compatible with iPhone and Android devices, the company's tailored short-term plans are designed for those embarking on multi-country tours, emphasizing flexibility and cost efficiency. With its commitment to providing seamless, economical, and efficient ways for global travelers to stay connected, KnowRoaming has solidified its position as a leader in the international SIM card industry, catering to the evolving needs of modern travelers worldwide.

Global Connectivity 9

Data Plans 7

Talk Plans 7

Customer Service 8

Pricing 7

Pros

• Local Data Plans Available
• Flexibility
• Compatible with iPhone and Android users
• Avoids Local Roaming Charges

Cons

• Difficult to switch between numbers
• Not ideal for long term stays

5. Onesim

Editorial Score:

Based on 5 categories.

7.4

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OneSim eSIM

OneSIM is celebrated for its global network coverage in over 190 countries, providing low rates for voice calls and data without extra charges for roaming. This SIM card also offers unique free services such as voicemail, caller ID, and SMS delivery confirmation, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking an affordable and convenient way to stay connected. Among the 5 Best SIM Cards, OneSIM stands out for its comprehensive offerings and cost-effectiveness, ensuring seamless communication for globetrotters.

Global Connectivity 10

Data Plans 6

Talk Plans 6

Customer Service 7

Pricing 8

Pros

• Over 190 Countries
• Low rates
• Free additional services
• No daily or monthly usage limits

Cons

• Higher data cost compared to some countries
• Rates can get expensive for longer calls

Each of these SIM cards offers unique benefits tailored to different types of travelers, from those needing extensive global coverage and data to those looking for cost-effective solutions for short-term trips. Whether you’re a frequent traveler requiring flexibility and wide coverage or a budget-conscious tourist aiming to avoid hefty roaming fees, the 5 Best eSIM cards cater to a broad spectrum of needs, ensuring you stay connected wherever your travels take you.

Why are eSIM Cards Important for Travel?

eSIM cards represent a significant advancement in connectivity for travelers, offering unparalleled convenience and flexibility that traditional physical SIM cards cannot match. For globetrotters, business travelers, and anyone moving across borders, eSIMs eliminate many of the logistical challenges associated with staying connected in foreign countries. Here are several reasons why eSIM cards are becoming indispensable for travel:

Seamless Connectivity: eSIMs allow travelers to switch between different network providers without the need to physically change SIM cards. This means you can land in a new country and immediately connect to a local network, ensuring continuous access to maps, travel information, and communication tools.

Cost-Effective: By enabling travelers to subscribe to local data plans, eSIMs avoid the exorbitant roaming charges traditionally associated with international travel. This makes managing travel budgets easier and allows for more predictable expenses.

Multiple Plans on One Device: eSIM technology supports storing multiple profiles simultaneously, allowing travelers to keep their home number active while using a local data plan. This dual functionality is perfect for those who need to stay reachable on their primary number while avoiding high roaming costs.

Enhanced Security: Losing a physical SIM card or having it stolen can be a significant security risk, especially when traveling. eSIMs are embedded into the device, reducing the risk of loss or theft and offering a safer alternative to maintain connectivity.

Space-Saving and Eco-Friendly: For device manufacturers, eSIMs free up valuable space within devices that can be used for other features or to make devices slimmer. Additionally, the shift towards digital SIMs reduces the need for plastic SIM card production, contributing to environmental conservation efforts.

Broad Device Compatibility: With an increasing number of devices supporting eSIM technology, from smartphones and tablets to smartwatches and laptops, travelers have the flexibility to stay connected across all their devices without the need for multiple physical SIM cards.

Can I Use Multiple eSIM Cards While Traveling?

One of the standout features of eSIM technology is its ability to support multiple eSIM profiles on a single device. This capability is particularly beneficial for travelers, as it allows them to switch between different carrier plans without needing to physically replace SIM cards. Here’s what you need to know about using multiple eSIM cards while traveling:

Simultaneous Profiles: Modern smartphones and devices equipped with eSIM technology can store several eSIM profiles at once. However, it’s important to note that while you can store multiple profiles, you can typically only use one profile at a time for cellular data. Switching between profiles can be done easily through the device’s settings, allowing for flexibility depending on your location or specific needs.

Local and International Plans: Travelers can benefit from having multiple eSIM profiles by keeping their home country’s profile active for calls and texts while using a local eSIM profile for data services in the country they are visiting. This approach ensures that they can enjoy lower data rates without missing important calls or messages on their primary number.

Managing Profiles: The process of adding, removing, and switching between eSIM profiles is managed through the device’s settings. For travelers, this means the convenience of pre-purchasing eSIM plans from different providers and activating them as needed throughout their journey. It’s a straightforward process that offers real-time adaptability to the best available networks.

Carrier Support and Compatibility: It’s crucial to ensure that your device supports eSIM technology and that the carriers or eSIM service providers you intend to use offer compatible plans. Compatibility and support can vary by device model and carrier, so checking in advance is advisable to avoid any inconvenience.

Practical Use: For practical use while traveling, managing multiple eSIM profiles enables travelers to stay connected in the most cost-effective and efficient manner. Whether it’s switching to a local data plan upon arrival, maintaining an eSIM profile for a frequently visited country, or juggling between business and personal profiles, the flexibility of eSIM technology caters to diverse connectivity needs.

How do I Know if My Device is Compatible?

Determining whether your device is compatible with an eSIM is an essential step before you can take advantage of the flexibility and convenience this technology offers. The compatibility largely depends on the make and model of your device, as eSIM technology is a relatively recent development and is not supported by all devices. Generally, most newer smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches from major manufacturers like Apple, Samsung, Google, and others have built-in eSIM capability.

To check if your device is eSIM-compatible, you can start by consulting the user manual or the technical specifications listed on the manufacturer’s website. Look for mentions of eSIM or Embedded SIM alongside the device’s other features. Another reliable method is to visit the settings menu on your device. For example, on an iPhone, you can go to Settings > Cellular (or Mobile Data) > Add Cellular Plan; if this option is available, your device supports eSIM. Similarly, Android users can find eSIM settings under Network & Internet in the settings menu.

Additionally, contacting your mobile carrier or visiting their website can provide information on whether they support eSIM technology and if your device is eligible. It’s important to note that even if your device is eSIM-compatible, the feature must also be supported by your mobile network provider for you to utilize eSIM services effectively.

Which Devices Support eSIM

Smartphones

• Apple iPhone: From iPhone XS, XS Max, XR (and later models including the iPhone 11 series, iPhone 12 series, iPhone 13 series, iPhone 14 series and iPhone SE 2020 onwards).
• Google Pixel: Starting with Pixel 2 (limited support), fully supported from Pixel 3, 3a, 4, 4a, 5, 5a, 6, and later models.
• Samsung Galaxy: S20 series, S21 series, S22 series, s23 series, s24 series Note 20 series, Z Fold series, Z Flip series, and newer models.
• Motorola Razr: 2019 version and later.
• Huawei: P40, P40 Pro, and Mate 40 Pro.

Tablets

• Apple iPad: iPad Pro 11-inch (1st generation and later), iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation and later), iPad Air (3rd generation and later), iPad (7th generation and later), and iPad Mini (5th generation and later).
• Microsoft Surface: Surface Pro X and newer models.

Smartwatches

• Apple Watch: Series 3 Cellular and later models.
• Samsung Galaxy Watch: Galaxy Watch (LTE version), Galaxy Watch Active2 (LTE version), Galaxy Watch 3 (LTE version), and newer models.
• Huawei Watch 2 Pro.

Other Devices

• Laptops: Certain models like the Microsoft Surface Pro X and some versions of the Lenovo Yoga and HP Spectre x360 have built-in eSIM support.