How to Activate a Canadian SIM Card in India?
Updated on 31 October, 2024

So, you’re about to begin an exciting journey to Canada! You’ve sorted your documents, packed your warmest jacket, and researched all the must-visit poutine spots. But there’s one thing that often gets overlooked: staying connected from the moment you step off the plane.
Picture this: You’ve just landed at the airport. You need to call an Uber, update your family on WhatsApp, and check your class schedule—all at once. But wait, there’s no Wi-Fi, and you haven’t set up your SIM card yet. Sounds like a nightmare, right? Luckily, this situation can be avoided by getting your Canadian SIM Card in India before you even leave!
Why get a Canadian SIM card in India before departure ?

No Airport Stress

Save Time and Hassle

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How to activate a Canadian SIM card upon arrival to Canada?

(if it’s a physical SIM) or
scan the QR code (if it’s an eSIM).



Documents Required to Order a Canadian SIM Card in India
- Passport: Serves as your primary ID and proof of identity.
- Study Permit or Visa: This confirms your status as an international student in Canada.
- Proof of Address: You’ll need to provide a valid Canadian address, such as a student housing contract, rental agreement, or temporary accommodation details, to register your SIM card.
Best SIM Card Options for Canada You Can Order from India
- eSIM for Canada: Want to keep it simple? eSIM is perfect for students who prefer hassle-free solutions. You can activate it digitally from your phone before leaving India,no physical SIM card needed. Why it’s awesome:
- No waiting around for deliveries you’ll get a code via email and can activate it instantly.
- Great for short stays or flexible data needs. Allows multiple numbers, so you can manage both personal and student plans easily.
- Rogers SIM Card Plans for Canada: Rogers is one of Canada’s biggest and most reliable telecom providers, and their plans are designed to keep students connected. The best part? You can order your SIM in India with SIM for Canada and have it ready before you even land. Here’s why students love Rogers:
- Unlimited calling across Canada so you can stay connected no matter where you are.
- High-speed 5G data plans perfect for streaming, studying, and calling home.
- Bundle options with new phonespay in easy installments instead of a big upfront cost.
- SIM card for students travelling to Canada: Canada’s major providers like Rogers, Bell, and Fido offer some great student-focused plans, and yes, you can get them ordered while you’re still in India. Here’s what makes them stand out:
- Unlimited international texting to stay in touch with family and friends back home.
- 100GB Data plans to 75GB data plans for every type of user—whether you’re a light browser or a binge watcher.
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting a Canadian SIM Card in India
- Visit SIM for Canada’s Website
- Go to the SIM for Canada website and explore the various Canada SIM card plans available.
- Choose the plan that best fits your needs—whether it’s a prepaid plan, a postpaid plan, or an eSIM for Canada.
- Gather the Required Documents You’ll need some basic documents to get started:
- Passport (for identity verification).
- Visa or study permit (to confirm your international student status).
- Proof of address in Canada, such as a student housing contract or temporary accommodation booking.
- Submitting these documents online speeds up the activation process and means you’re ready to go as soon as you receive the SIM.
- Place Your Order Once you’ve chosen your plan and uploaded the required documents, proceed to place your order. You can opt for doorstep delivery in India, making it convenient to receive the SIM before you leave.
- Gather the Required Documents After receiving your SIM card, follow these steps to activate it:
- Insert the SIM card into your phone.
- Restart your device.
- Enter the activation code provided by SIM for Canada. For eSIM users, scan the QR code sent to your email to activate.
Benefits of Getting a Canada SIM Card Before in India
- Stay Connected Right Away: No need to hunt for Wi-Fi at the airport or borrow someone’s phone to make that all-important first call home. With your SIM card activated in India, you can start using it the moment you arrive in Canada.
- Plan Your Budget in Advance: Knowing the monthly costs of your plan before you leave India helps you budget better. For example, SIM for Canada offers plans with no activation fees, saving you extra costs, and helps you plan your expenses stress-free.
- Exclusive Pre-Order Deals: Ordering your SIM card from India comes with amazing perks. Providers like SIM for Canada offer waived activation fees and special discounts. By ordering early, you can save up to $70—a great start to managing your finances in Canada.Choose What Works for You: Whether you need unlimited data, international calling, or a simple prepaid plan, you can select what suits your needs best from trusted providers like Rogers and Fido.
- Flexible Data Plans: Choose from a variety of Canada SIM card plans based on your requirements, including postpaid and prepaid options.
Tips for Choosing the Best Student SIM Card for Canada
- High Data Plans for Students: Planning to stream lectures, navigate maps, or rely on online resources? Opt for generous data allowances. For example, Rogers offers fantastic plans with 100GB for $40 and 120GB for $50, both with 5G speeds—perfect for seamless studying and streaming.
- Unlimited International Texting: Stay in touch with your family and friends back in India without worrying about extra charges. Look for plans that offer free or unlimited international texting.
- Compare Providers: Different providers have their own perks. For example, Rogers is great for high-speed data and postpaid benefits, while Fido is more budget-friendly, offering 75GB for just $35. Compare options to find the one that fits your budget and needs.
- Prepaid vs. Postpaid Plans: Choose based on what works for you. Prepaid plans are great for controlling spending, but postpaid plans, like those from Rogers, come with perks such as building your credit score and easy access to devices. With a Rogers postpaid plan, you can even get the latest iPhone with minimal down payment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can order it online through providers like SIM for Canada. We offer free delivery services to your doorstep in India.
Follow the instructions provided by your SIM provider. This usually involves inserting the SIM, restarting your phone, and entering an activation code.
You’ll need your passport, visa, or study permit, and a Canadian address proof.
Yes, there is. A prepaid SIM card allows you to pay for services in advance and is ideal for budget-conscious users, as there’s no risk of overspending. On the other hand, a postpaid SIM card lets you use the service first and pay for it at the end of the billing cycle, which is more convenient for those who need higher data limits and longer-term commitments.
Yes, you can keep your Canadian SIM card active while in India, but be aware of roaming charges. To avoid extra costs, it’s best to check with your provider regarding international roaming rates or switch to a plan that offers affordable roaming options. Alternatively, eSIM users can easily switch back to their Indian SIM when they return.