Can you get an eSIM for a prepaid plan?
Yes, some providers offer the option to get an eSIM for a prepaid plan, though it’s currently more common for standard monthly bring your own phone plans. It’s also important to keep in mind that you can’t always choose an eSIM directly when ordering your prepaid service. In some cases, you may need to purchase a physical SIM card first and then switch to an eSIM later through your account settings. However, your current or future provider’s website should clearly state their specific policy. If it’s not clear, you can always contact their customer support for guidance.
What do you need to enable an eSIM for a prepaid plan?
To use an eSIM with a prepaid plan, you need a cell phone that supports eSIM technology and a carrier that offers eSIM options specifically for prepaid customers. While many Canadian carriers support eSIM for monthly contracts, fewer offer it for prepaid, though the list is growing. Below are some current examples of how the process works.
How to get a prepaid eSIM
- Choose your prepaid plan on the provider’s website.
- Fill in the required details and select “eSIM” as your preferred SIM type (if available).
- Proceed to checkout and complete your payment.
- Check your email. The provider will send you a QR code (usually in a confirmation email), which you’ll use to activate the eSIM on your device.
The exact process for getting a prepaid eSIM can vary depending on the carrier. The steps above are a general guide. Below, you’ll find instructions on how to activate the eSIM on your phone, though these steps can also vary slightly by device and manufacturer.
Activate the eSIM on your device
On iPhone
- Connect to a Wi-Fi network.
- Go to Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM.
- Follow the prompts to scan the QR code provided by your carrier.
On Samsung
- Connect to a Wi-Fi network.
- Open Settings.
- Go to Connections > SIM manager > Add eSIM.
- Follow the instructions to scan your QR code.
On Google Pixel
- Connect to a Wi-Fi network.
- Open Settings.
- Go to Network & internet > SIMs > Add eSIM.
- Follow the instructions to scan your QR code.
On Huawei
- Connect to a Wi-Fi network.
- Open Settings.
- Go to Mobile network > SIM management > Add eSIM.
- Follow the instructions to scan the QR code.
What are the advantages of using a prepaid eSIM?
If your provider allows you to choose an eSIM right away, the biggest advantage is instant activation. You can start using your prepaid plan immediately without waiting for a physical SIM card to arrive in the mail or having to visit a store.
Other benefits include
- Dual SIM capability: You can run multiple lines (like a work number and a personal number, or a local Canadian plan and a travel plan) on a single device.
- Eco-friendly: Since the eSIM is built into your phone, there’s no plastic waste or carbon footprint from shipping a physical card.
Are there any drawbacks to choosing an eSIM?
Yes. As mentioned, the setup can sometimes be a bit more technical than just “plug and play” with a physical SIM. Additionally, transferring an eSIM between devices isn’t always seamless. For example, if you upgrade your phone, you might not be able to just “move” the digital profile yourself.
While some manufacturers and carriers in Canada are starting to support “eSIM Quick Transfer,” it’s not yet universal. In many cases, you’ll need to contact your provider or log into your account to get a new QR code to activate the service on a new device.
Can you switch from a physical SIM card to a prepaid eSIM?
Yes, as long as your provider supports eSIM for prepaid customers, switching is usually straightforward. The process varies by carrier. For example, with some Canadian flanker brands like Public Mobile or Lucky Mobile, you can often manage this swap directly through their mobile app or your online account portal. You would typically select Change SIM card, choose the eSIM option, and then scan the new QR code provided.
Which is the cheapest prepaid eSIM?
Ice Wireless 0.5 GB is the cheapest prepaid eSIM right now (checked on 2026-10-30). Recharge from $14.00.
Frequently asked questions about prepaid eSIMs
It depends on the provider. While some carriers like Lucky Mobile often offer eSIM activation for free when you sign up online, others may charge a one-time fee of around $5 to $10 for the “eSIM voucher” or digital profile.
No, not all. While major brands like Telus, Bell, and Rogers support eSIM for monthly contracts, their prepaid sub-brands vary. Currently, Public Mobile and Lucky Mobile are the leaders in prepaid eSIM availability, while others like Chatr may still require a physical SIM card.
It depends on your plan, not the eSIM itself. Many prepaid brands in Canada, such as Public Mobile, now offer 5G speed tiers. However, many budget-friendly prepaid plans are still capped at 4G or even 3G speeds, so be sure to check the plan’s specific speed rating.
The main advantage is convenience. You can download your plan and get a Canadian phone number instantly without going to a store or waiting for shipping. It’s also great for using your phone as a Dual SIM device – keeping your primary line active while using a prepaid eSIM for extra data or a separate local number.
Absolutely. You can “port” your current mobile or landline number to a prepaid eSIM plan. During the activation process, you’ll just need to provide your previous account number and some identification. Most Canadian carriers allow you to do this directly through their app or website.
Transferring an eSIM between devices depends on the carrier. Some newer phones support eSIM Quick Transfer, but many prepaid providers require you to log into your account and swap your SIM by generating a new QR code. Keep in mind that some carriers may charge a small fee for a new eSIM profile when you switch devices.
While most carriers prefer a Canadian credit card for automatic top-ups (Auto-pay), many prepaid providers allow you to activate your eSIM using international credit cards or even “Prepaid Top-up” vouchers purchased at retail stores like 7-Eleven, Shoppers Drug Mart, or Canadian Tire.
