Best Internet Plans in Canada for Newcomers (2025 Edition — Compare by Province)
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Welcome to Canada! One of your first essential tasks will be securing reliable internet, but navigating the options for best internet plans in Canada for newcomers can feel overwhelming.
We understand the initial confusion firsthand – remembering how challenging it was to sign up for different networks, encountering unexpected service issues, and even dealing with persistent calls for a previous phone number holder.
Our journey taught us just how important it is to truly understand contract terms and the real-world performance of various providers. This guide is designed to simplify that. We’ll break down everything you need to know, province by province, helping you find the perfect internet plan for speed, value, and newcomer-friendly perks.
What Newcomers Should Know Before Choosing an Internet Plan
Before signing up, understand typical costs, speed needs, data limits, equipment options, potential wait times, and especially how credit checks work.
Choosing an internet plan as a newcomer involves more than just picking the cheapest option. Understanding a few key factors upfront can save you stress and money.
Monthly Pricing Expectations
In Canada, expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $90 CAD per month for a decent internet plan. While some providers offer introductory rates as low as $30-$40, these often jump significantly after the first 6-12 months.
Always ask for the regular price after any promotional period ends to avoid surprises. For a broader view on budgeting for your move, check out our guide on how to prepare financially for your move to Canada.
Speed Basics (Mbps)
Internet speed is measured in Megabits per second (Mbps) and dictates how fast you can browse, stream, and download.
- 25 Mbps: Good for basic Browse, email, and light streaming for 1-2 people.
- 50-100 Mbps: Ideal for families, multiple users streaming in HD, online gaming, and remote work/study. This is generally the sweet spot for most households.
- 250+ Mbps: Best for heavy users, multiple 4K streams, large file transfers, or smart homes with many connected devices.
Pro Tip: Think about your household’s internet usage. Are you just checking emails, or will you be streaming movies and attending video calls daily? This helps determine the speed you actually need.
Unlimited vs. Capped Data
Most modern Canadian internet plans offer unlimited data, meaning you can use as much internet as you want without extra charges. However, some older or very basic plans might have data caps (e.g., 100 GB, 200 GB). Exceeding these caps can lead to expensive overage fees. Always confirm your plan has unlimited data to avoid unexpected bills.
Modem Rental vs. Own Modem
You’ll need a modem to connect to the internet. Most ISPs include modem rental fees (often $10-$15/month) in their plan price, or offer it for “free” with a contract.
Sometimes, buying your own compatible modem can save you money in the long run, but ensure it’s approved by your chosen provider. For newcomers, renting is usually simpler initially.
Installation Wait Times
After signing up, there’s typically an installation wait time. This can range from a few days to a couple of weeks, especially in busy periods or remote areas.
As soon as you have a confirmed address, contact potential ISPs to inquire about their earliest installation dates and, critically, verify what services (fibre, cable, DSL) are actually available at your specific address. Availability can vary even block by block!
Credit Checks: Which ISPs Require Them?
This is a major concern for many newcomers. Traditional large providers like Bell and Rogers often require a credit check, which can be challenging if you’re new to Canada and haven’t built a credit history.
An important lesson we quickly learned is that being locked into a one-year plan can be quite restrictive if you encounter unexpected service issues or find a better deal later on.
To understand this process better, read our guide on how to start building your Canadian credit score.
Newcomer-Friendly Options: Many smaller, independent internet providers (known as “resellers” or “third-party ISPs”) are much more flexible, often offering plans with no credit check required, or accepting a larger security deposit instead. Some even offer prepaid internet options. Don’t be discouraged if a big name turns you down; alternatives exist!
Best Internet Plans in Canada (By Province)
Internet plans vary significantly by province. We’ve highlighted top options in key regions, focusing on newcomer-friendly features and value, noting which are often more flexible with credit.
Finding the right internet plan often comes down to your specific location, as providers and their best deals differ across Canada. Here’s a provincial breakdown to help you compare.
Ontario
Ontario, being Canada’s most populous province, has a competitive internet market with options from major players and numerous independent providers.
Bell Canada
- Plan: Fibe Internet 50 Unlimited
- Speed: 50 Mbps
- Price: $60/month (with a 2-year term, then $85/month)
Perks: Often includes a $100 gift card for new sign-ups, especially during promotional periods. Bell’s Fibe network offers reliable fibre-to-the-home connections in many urban areas.
Who this plan is best for: Small families or couples who stream, work from home occasionally, and need consistent performance. Bell is a strong choice if you are starting to build your Canadian credit history and want the stability of a major provider.
Why this provider? Bell’s extensive fibre optic network provides very stable and fast speeds, making it ideal for demanding online activities. While typically requiring a credit check, they may offer solutions like security deposits for newcomers.
However, a personal challenge we faced was persistent intermittent network issues with Bell, even after changing phones and extensive troubleshooting, which proved quite frustrating.
👉 Sign up here for Bell Fibe Internet
Rogers Ignite
- Plan: Ignite Internet 100u
- Speed: 100 Mbps
- Price: $75/month (with a 24-month term)
No credit history accepted: Yes, Rogers is generally more flexible than Bell for newcomers. They often accept a security deposit if no credit history is available, and frequently have specific programs or prepaid options designed to assist new residents.
Who this plan is best for: Individuals or small families needing solid speed for streaming and general use, especially if you’re looking for credit-flexible options right away. Ideal for urban and suburban renters.
Why this provider? Rogers offers competitive bundles with mobile services and often has promotions specifically targeting new residents. Their cable network provides reliable high-speed internet across vast areas.
Our experience with Rogers WiFi for our home network was very positive; it worked seamlessly, even with 6-7 gadgets being used concurrently and lots of streaming.
British Columbia
British Columbia’s internet landscape is dominated by Telus and Shaw (now largely integrated with Rogers), with other regional and independent providers also serving the market.
Telus
- Plan: PureFibre Internet 75
- Speed: 75 Mbps
- Price: ~$70/month (with a 2-year term, estimated for 75 Mbps)
Perks: Often includes a free modem and sometimes a bill credit. Telus’s PureFibre network is renowned for its reliability and symmetrical speeds (upload and download speeds are similar).
Who this plan is best for: Families and remote workers in urban and suburban areas of BC who prioritize high reliability and fast upload speeds for video calls or cloud backups. Like Bell, Telus typically requires a credit check but may offer security deposit options.
Why this provider? Telus’s PureFibre is considered top-tier for performance and consistency. They have a strong presence across BC and offer competitive bundles if you’re also looking for mobile or TV services.
👉 Check Telus PureFibre Offers
Shaw (Now Rogers)
- Plan: Internet 100
- Speed: 100 Mbps
- Price: $70/month (regular $90/month)
No credit history accepted: Similar to Rogers in Ontario, Shaw (now operating under the Rogers umbrella) is generally newcomer-friendly and may offer options like security deposits for those without established Canadian credit.
Who this plan is best for: Individuals or small to medium-sized families who want slightly higher speeds for more demanding online activities like online gaming or multiple concurrent streams, particularly if credit flexibility is a priority.
Why this provider? Shaw/Rogers offers competitive cable internet plans across BC with good coverage and various bundle options. They are often cited on Reddit as being more flexible for new arrivals than Telus regarding credit.
👉 View Shaw/Rogers Internet Offers
Alberta
Alberta’s main providers are Telus and Rogers (formerly Shaw). Fido is a popular choice for newcomers seeking flexibility.
Telus
- Speed: 75 Mbps
- Price: ~$70/month (with a 2-year term, estimated based on BC pricing)
Who this plan is best for: Similar to BC, Telus in Alberta is ideal for those seeking ultra-reliable fibre internet for demanding usage, such as remote work, online learning, or heavy streaming. Best for those building credit.
Why this provider? Telus has an extensive fibre footprint across Alberta, providing leading speeds and stability. While they typically require a credit check, their network quality is top-tier.
👉 Explore Telus Plans in Alberta
Fido (credit-flexible, prepaid available)
- Speed: 100 Mbps (initial, speed reduces after 500GB)
- Price: $60/month
Who this plan is best for: Newcomers, students, or anyone prioritizing no-credit-check options or month-to-month flexibility. Fido offers straightforward cable internet plans that are often highly recommended on Reddit for new arrivals, particularly their 5G Home Internet for ease of setup.
Why this provider? Fido, a subsidiary of Rogers, is well-known for its simpler plans and often more lenient credit policies. They frequently offer competitive entry-level speeds and are a go-to for many new Canadians needing immediate internet access without credit hurdles.
After facing challenges with another provider, switching to Fido for both mobile and home internet under the same bundle proved seamless and cost-effective for us.
Quebec
Quebec has a unique telecommunications market, with Videotron being a dominant force alongside smaller, competitive players like TekSavvy and Fizz.
Videotron
- Speed: 100 Mbps
- Price: $58/month (with a 2-year term)
Who this plan is best for: Most Quebec residents, from individuals to large families, seeking high-speed internet with strong regional coverage. Videotron offers a range of speeds to suit all needs and is known for reliable service.
Why this provider? Videotron has an extensive network across Quebec and is known for its strong customer service and bundled offers with mobile and TV. While generally requiring a credit check, they have established presence and support.
TekSavvy (popular for low prices)
- Speed: 100 Mbps
- Price: $71.95/month
Who this plan is best for: Cost-conscious newcomers or those who prefer supporting an independent ISP and need credit flexibility. TekSavvy is widely praised on Reddit for its transparent pricing, customer-focused approach, and straightforward plans.
Why this provider? TekSavvy operates on the major networks (Bell and Videotron) but often at lower prices and with more flexible credit requirements, making them a consistently recommended value option for newcomers in Quebec.
👉 Find TekSavvy Plans in Quebec
Atlantic Canada (NB, NS, PEI, NL)
The Atlantic provinces are primarily served by Eastlink and Bell Aliant, offering a mix of fibre and cable internet services.
Eastlink
- Speed: 150 Mbps
- Price: $55/month (for 24 months, then $85/month)
Who this plan is best for: Residents across Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and parts of New Brunswick and Newfoundland seeking competitive cable internet speeds and bundled options. Good for mid-to-large families and often more flexible with credit than Bell Aliant.
Why this provider? Eastlink is a major regional player with good coverage. They are often noted as a strong alternative to Bell Aliant, potentially offering more newcomer-friendly terms or promotions, especially when bundling.
Bell Aliant
- Speed: 50 Mbps
- Price: $60/month (with a 2-year term)
Who this plan is best for: Those in New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland who prioritize fibre-to-the-home internet for maximum speed and reliability. Ideal for remote workers and heavy internet users looking for a premium connection.
Why this provider? Bell Aliant offers extensive fibre optic coverage throughout the region, providing some of the fastest and most stable connections available. Like national Bell services, they typically require a credit check but are the gold standard for speed in many areas.
👉 Check Bell Aliant Fibre Plans
Freebies, Deals & Newcomer Perks (2025)
Many Canadian ISPs offer special promotions like free months, no-contract plans, and bundle discounts that can save newcomers significant money. Always ask!
As a newcomer, you’re in a unique position to take advantage of various deals and perks that can make your internet service more affordable. ISPs are often keen to attract new long-term customers, and many have specific offers.
Free First Month
Some providers, particularly independent or smaller ones, will offer your first month of internet service for free as an incentive to sign up. This is a great way to save a quick $50-$90 right off the bat, giving you more time to settle in before your first bill arrives.
When speaking with an ISP’s sales representative, explicitly ask, “Are there any promotions for a free first month for new customers or newcomers?”
No Contract Plans
Avoiding long-term contracts (e.g., 2-year terms) offers immense flexibility, which is valuable for newcomers who might still be adjusting their living situation.
Many providers, especially independent ones or sub-brands like Fido and Koodo, offer month-to-month plans. While these might be slightly more expensive monthly, they prevent cancellation fees if you need to move or change plans quickly.
If you sign a two-year contract and decide to move provinces after six months, you could face hundreds of dollars in early cancellation fees. This highlights why understanding contract terms is crucial, as being tied to a plan that doesn’t meet your needs can be a real headache.
SIM Card & Mobile Bundles
Many internet providers also operate mobile phone services (e.g., Rogers, Bell, Telus, Fido, Koodo, Videotron). They frequently offer discounts when you bundle your internet with a SIM card/mobile plan.
This can be a convenient way to manage fewer bills and save money overall. Our experience showed that bundling our internet and mobile plans under the same network led to significant savings and simplified our household’s connectivity.
Pro Tip: Calculate if the combined savings outweigh getting internet and mobile from separate providers. Sometimes, the combined discount is substantial.
Referral Programs
Once you’re a customer, many ISPs have referral programs that reward both you and a friend who signs up using your unique code. These typically offer a bill credit (e.g., “Get $25 when you refer a friend, and they get $25 too!”). This is an easy win-win once you’ve settled in and start connecting with others in Canada.
Ask for a Referral Code!
If you know someone already with a provider you’re considering, ask them if they have a referral code. Both of you could receive a credit on your next bill! You can often find these codes on community forums like Reddit or dedicated Canadian deals websites.
Don’t Be Shy to Negotiate!
Even if a deal isn’t advertised, it never hurts to ask for one. Politely inquire if there are any special offers for new customers or newcomers or if they can match a competitor’s advertised price.
This simple conversation can sometimes lead to a better deal or an unexpected perk, especially with the larger providers when speaking to their loyalty or retention departments.
Check Red Flag Deals for Top Promotions: For the most aggressive and up-to-the-minute internet deals in Canada, Red Flag Deals (RedFlagDeals.com) is an invaluable resource. This popular Canadian forum often highlights unadvertised “retention” offers, short-term promotions, and referral opportunities that are not widely published. It’s a smart place to check before making a final decision..
Quick Comparison Table
Use this table to quickly compare top internet plans for newcomers across Canada, focusing on price, speed, and credit check flexibility.
Here’s a quick overview of some of the best internet plans for newcomers across Canada, making it easy to compare key features at a glance. Remember, prices are subject to change and often depend on current promotions.
| Province | Top Provider | Price | Speed | No Credit Check? | Affiliate Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ontario | Bell | $60 | 50 Mbps | ❌ | Visit Bell’s Website |
| Ontario | Rogers | $75 | 100 Mbps | ✅ | Check Rogers Offers |
| British Columbia | Telus | ~$70 | 75 Mbps | ❌ | Explore Telus Plans |
| British Columbia | Shaw (Rogers) | $70 | 100 Mbps | ✅ | View Shaw/Rogers Offers |
| Alberta | Telus | ~$70 | 75 Mbps | ❌ | Explore Telus Plans in Alberta |
| Alberta | Fido | $60 | 100 Mbps | ✅ | Check Fido Internet Deals |
| Quebec | Videotron | $58 | 100 Mbps | ❌ | Discover Videotron Internet |
| Quebec | TekSavvy | $71.95 | 100 Mbps | ✅ | Find TekSavvy Plans in Quebec |
| Atlantic Canada | Eastlink | $55 | 150 Mbps | ✅ | Explore Eastlink Internet |
| Atlantic Canada | Bell Aliant | $60 | 50 Mbps | ❌ | Check Bell Aliant Fibre Plans |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get internet in Canada without a credit history?
Yes, you can absolutely get internet in Canada without a credit history. Many independent internet service providers and sub-brands offer flexible options, including plans that don’t require a credit check, accept a security deposit, or provide prepaid services.
Is it cheaper to go prepaid?
Not necessarily. While prepaid internet plans offer convenience and avoid credit checks for newcomers, their monthly cost can sometimes be higher than traditional post-paid plans, especially when comparing promotional rates.
Can I cancel my plan anytime?
It depends on your contract; month-to-month plans usually allow cancellation with 30 days’ notice, while term contracts (e.g., 1-2 years) often incur substantial early cancellation fees. We recommend understanding these terms upfront, as waiting for a contract to end can be inconvenient if you need to switch providers.
Which providers are newcomer-friendly?
Providers like Fido, Koodo, and TekSavvy are often recommended for newcomers due to their more flexible credit policies and straightforward plans. Additionally, many smaller regional ISPs are generally more accommodating for new arrivals in Canada.
Conclusion
Choosing internet in Canada as a newcomer is manageable. Use this guide, compare wisely, and pick a plan that fits your current needs and budget.
Choosing internet as a newcomer doesn’t have to be stressful or overwhelming. By understanding the basics and knowing where to look, you can find a reliable and affordable connection quickly.
Remember that your first plan doesn’t have to be your forever plan; you can always switch providers later as your credit history builds and your needs change.
For more overall guidance, explore our article on essential tips for avoiding common moving mistakes in Canada and other key settlement tips for new immigrants to Canada. You might also find our list of must-have items for new arrivals useful for other aspects of settling in.
Use this guide as your starting point. Compare the options based on your province, consider your personal usage habits (how much streaming, gaming, or video calls you’ll do), and prioritize what’s most important to you right now—whether that’s a no-credit-check option, the absolute lowest price, or the fastest speed available.
Take 15 minutes today to visit the websites of 2-3 providers identified in your province. Look for current promotions, double-check prices, and confirm their installation availability. This immediate step can get you connected sooner!
