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January 13, 2025

Setting Up Your Phone and Internet Services in Canada

Welcome to Canada. You’ve probably traveled a long way to get here, and we’re happy you’ve made it safely. From sea to sea to sea, this is a nation known for friendly people who are keen to say hello to their neighbours. But what if you want to say hello to someone back home? In this article, we go over the process of setting up your phone and internet services in Canada as someone who’s never done it before.

Who Offers Phone and Internet Services In Canada?

Before setting up your phone and internet services in Canada, get to know the landscape. Three major providers currently dominate the Canadian telecommunications market: Bell, Rogers, and Telus. These companies offer both wireless and internet services across most of the country. Regional providers like Videotron in Quebec, Shaw in Western Canada, and Freedom Mobile in urban areas provide additional options, often at competitive rates.

Each provider maintains its own network infrastructure, though smaller companies (called Mobile Virtual Network Operators or MVNOs) may lease network access from the major players. This means you’ll find similar coverage areas but different pricing structures, customer service experiences, and contract terms depending on which company you choose.

Choosing the Right Providers

You don’t need to stick with the same providers when setting up your phone and internet services in Canada. Citizens generally let prices and features determine which plans they choose and which companies they do business with. In some cases, it may make more sense to have a phone with Bell and an internet modem with Rogers. Although, most of the time, prospective providers will offer a bundle so you don’t go to their competition.

All three major telecom companies have plans that include talk, text, and data. Most start around $50 per month for basic service and can exceed $100 for premium packages with unlimited data. Internet plans typically range from $50-120 monthly depending on speed and data caps.

When setting up your phone and internet services in Canada, consider the following factors.

Coverage Area: Check provider coverage maps for your home and workplace 

Contract Length: Some offer month-to-month while others require 2-year commitments 

Data Limits: Consider how much internet you use both at home and on mobile 

Bundle Discounts: Combining services often leads to better rates 

Additional Fees: Watch for equipment rental costs, activation fees, and overage charges

Choosing the Right Providers

What You’ll Need When Setting Up Your Phone and Internet Services In Canada

In Canada, phone and internet customers enter into contracts that require identification and credit checks.

When setting up your services, you’ll need to provide:

  • Government-issued photo ID (passport, driver’s license, or PR card)
  • Proof of address (utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement)
  • Banking information for automatic payments
  • Credit card for security deposit (if required)
  • Social Insurance Number (SIN) for credit check purposes
  • Sometimes they’ll be able to use your visitor extension number

New immigrants may face additional requirements or need to pay larger security deposits if they lack a Canadian credit history. Some providers offer special newcomer plans that waive certain requirements, though these may come with higher monthly fees.

Know Your Rights

The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) enforces regulations protecting consumers. That includes you, regardless of how long you’ve been in the country.

Key rights include:

  • Clear disclosure of all fees and charges
  • 15-day trial period to cancel contracts without penalty
  • Maximum two-year contract terms
  • Written notice before any price changes
  • Ability to unlock phones at no cost
  • Clear explanation of data overage charges
  • Right to file complaints through the Commission for Complaints for Telecom-television Services (CCTS)

Don’t Be Afraid to Negotiate

The Canadian telecom market isn’t very competitive, but it’s competitive enough to warrant bargaining. When setting up your phone and internet services in Canada, don’t hesitate to ask for better deals. Providers often have unadvertised promotions or retention offers they can extend to new customers. 

Compare quotes between companies and use competing offers as leverage. If you’re bundling services, request additional discounts. Even if you can’t get a lower monthly rate, you might secure waived activation fees or free equipment upgrades.

Remember to review promotional periods carefully – many providers offer attractive introductory rates that increase substantially after 6-12 months. Ask about long-term pricing and get any promises in writing. If you’re not satisfied with the initial offers, consider calling back another day to speak with a different representative or visiting a different store location.

phone and internet customers

We’ll Have You Setting Up Your Phone and Internet Services In Canada In No Time

Oro Immigration Services is a well-established immigration consultancy that has helped thousands of newcomers settle into life in Canada. Our team understands the unique challenges of relocating to a new country, including the often confusing process of setting up essential services.

Contact us today to learn how we can help make your transition to Canadian life smoother. From immigration paperwork to setting up utilities, we’re here to support you every step of the way. 

 

paulette

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