Internet in Canada is expensive and the sign-up process has traps. Promotional prices expire. Credit checks block the plans you want. Contracts lock you in before you know if the service is reliable.
This guide maps the options by province. It flags the credit check requirements. It shows you how to calculate the real 24-month cost before you sign anything.
Families who have navigated internet sign-up in their first weeks in Canada report the same pattern: the promotional price looks good, the credit check blocks the plan they wanted, and the contract terms only become clear after signing. This guide addresses all three problems before you pick up the phone.
It helps you find the right internet plan for your province fast, without reading every provider’s website.
The comparison table is in the middle of this page. The credit check guide is at the bottom.
If you already know your province, skip directly to your section.
Disclosure:TrueCanadianFinds contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of these Amazon links, I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. See my Disclosure Policy for more information.
Disclaimer: TrueCanadianFinds.com provides general information for newcomers. The author is not a financial advisor or immigration consultant. This article is a curation of publicly available data and official sources. Always consult a professional for your specific situation
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.
Before you compare plans, answer these three questions:
- Do you have a Canadian credit history yet?
If no, start with Fido, TekSavvy, or Eastlink. Skip Bell and Telus for now. - Are you on a month-to-month lease or a fixed address for at least one year?
If month-to-month – avoid 2-year contracts. Early cancellation fees can reach $200 or more. - How many people will use the internet at the same time?
One or two people – 50 Mbps is enough.
Three or more people, or video calls daily – choose 100 Mbps or higher.
Your answers narrow the options below to two or three real options. That is the only comparison you need to make.
Here’s a provincial breakdown to help you compare.
Ontario
Ontario has more internet providers than any other province. That includes major carriers and independent ISPs.
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.
The Ontario market looks competitive. It is — but only if you know that Bell’s $60/month rate becomes $85/month after 24 months, and Rogers’ $75/month rate is a 24-month term price that requires a credit check most new arrivals cannot pass.
British Columbia
In British Columbia, Telus and Shaw are the main providers. Shaw now operates under Rogers. Independent providers also serve parts of the province.
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 PureFibre offers symmetrical speeds. This means your upload speed matches your download speed.
Upload speed matters when you are on video calls or sending large files. Most cable plans have much slower upload speeds.
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’s internet market works differently from the rest of Canada. Videotron dominates in a way that Bell and Rogers do not in other provinces.
Families who arrive in Montreal often find that Videotron is the default but TekSavvy, which runs on Videotron’s network, consistently offers lower prices for the same connection.
The pattern among newcomer families in Quebec shows that those who start with TekSavvy spend less in year one without sacrificing speed.
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 consistently appears in newcomer community discussions as a low-friction option. The pattern across forums and settlement community groups shows that families who choose TekSavvy in their first three months report fewer billing surprises than those who start with a major carrier.
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 those who have just landed 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
Pro Tip:
Eastlink offers a 24-month promotional rate of $55/month for 150 Mbps. That is faster internet at a lower price than Bell Aliant’s 50 Mbps plan.
If you are in Nova Scotia, PEI, or New Brunswick, check Eastlink first. The speed-to-price ratio is the strongest in this region.
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.
Some companies buy internet access from Bell or Rogers in bulk. Then they sell it to you at a lower price. These companies are called resellers or independent ISPs.
They use the same cables as the big providers. But they often charge less. They also have fewer rules about credit checks.
Some even offer prepaid internet options. Don’t be discouraged if a big name turns you down; alternatives exist!
Credit check — quick reference:
| Provider | Credit check required? | Alternative option |
|---|---|---|
| Bell | Yes | Security deposit may be accepted |
| Rogers | Sometimes | Security deposit accepted |
| Telus | Yes | Security deposit may be accepted |
| Fido | No | Prepaid available |
| TekSavvy | No | No deposit required |
| Eastlink | Sometimes | Ask about newcomer options |
| Videotron | Yes | Security deposit may be accepted |
If you have no Canadian credit history, start with Fido or TekSavvy. Build three to six months of payment history. Then switch to a major carrier if you want a different plan.
How to Get Internet in Canada Without a Credit History
Before signing up, understand typical costs, speed needs, data limits, equipment options, potential wait times, and especially how credit checks work.
Here are the five variables that determine whether a plan is actually good value. Each one is explained below with the numbers you need.
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.
When you call or chat with a provider, use this exact question:
“What is the regular monthly price after the promotional period ends, and how long does the promotion last?”
Write the answer down. If the agent cannot give you a clear number, end the call and try a different provider. Vague pricing is a warning sign.
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.
| Speed | Best for | Household size | Works for |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25 Mbps | Basic use | 1–2 people | Email, light browsing, one stream |
| 50–100 Mbps | Standard use | 2–4 people | HD streaming, video calls, remote work |
| 250+ Mbps | Heavy use | 4+ people | 4K streaming, gaming, smart home devices |
If you are unsure, choose 100 Mbps. It covers most households. You can downgrade later.
Usage check – answer before you read further:
- How many devices will be connected at the same time?
- Will anyone work from home or attend video calls daily? Yes / No
- Will anyone stream video in 4K? Yes / No
If you answered yes to either of the last two questions, do not choose a plan under 100 Mbps. Speed drops during peak hours. A plan that works at 9am may buffer at 8pm.
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.
Here is where people get caught: some providers advertise “unlimited” plans but include a fair-use policy that reduces your speed after a certain amount of data. This is called throttling.
It is not the same as a hard data cap, but it has the same effect during peak hours. Ask specifically: “Does this plan throttle speeds after any usage threshold?”
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.
Renting a modem costs $120 to $180 per year. Buying a compatible modem costs $80 to $150 once. If you plan to stay at the same address for more than 12 months, buying your own modem saves money.
Confirm the modem model is approved by your provider before purchasing. Bell and Rogers both publish approved modem lists on their websites.
Installation Wait Times
After signing up, there’s typically an installation wait time. Installation wait times vary by provider and location.
Bell and Rogers typically schedule installation within 5 to 10 business days in urban areas. In rural areas or during high-demand periods, wait times can extend to 3 weeks or more.
Confirm the earliest available date when you call and do not assume availability.
As soon as you have a confirmed address, verify what services (fibre, cable, DSL) are actually available at your specific address. Availability can vary even block by block!
What is DSL?
DSL stands for Digital Subscriber Line. It uses your phone line to deliver internet. It is slower than fibre or cable. It is common in rural areas.
If DSL is the only option at your address, expect speeds under 25 Mbps.
How to Get a Lower Internet Rate in Canada (Deals and Promotions)
Many Canadian ISPs offer special promotions like free months, no-contract plans, and bundle discounts that can save newcomers significant money. Always ask!
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.
Bell’s standard early termination fee is calculated as the remaining months multiplied by a monthly fee and this can reach $200 or more if you cancel in the first year.
Rogers uses a similar structure. Check the exact fee schedule before signing any term contract. Both providers publish these in their service agreements.
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.
How Referral Codes Work
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.
How to Ask for a Better Rate
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.
Before you call any provider, run this five-minute exercise:
- Step 1 – Write down your province and postal code.
- Step 2 – Go to the provider’s website and enter your address. Confirm the plan is available at your address before spending time on the phone.
- Step 3 – Note the promotional price and the regular price after the promotion ends.
- Step 4 – Calculate the total 24-month cost: (promotional price × promotional months) + (regular price × remaining months).
- Step 5 – Compare that total across two providers. The one with the lower 24-month total is the better deal even if its monthly price looks higher.
This exercise takes five minutes. It has saved families in Canada $300 or more over a two-year contract.
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. Many independent providers and sub-brands do not require a credit check. Fido and TekSavvy are the most commonly used options.
If you skip this step and apply to Bell or Telus first, you may be declined. A declined application can appear on your credit file.
Start with a no-credit-check provider. Switch later when your credit history is established.
Is it cheaper to go prepaid?
Not always. Prepaid plans avoid credit checks. But they often cost $10 to $20 more per month than a promotional post-paid plan.
Over 12 months, that adds up to $120 to $240 extra. If you can provide a security deposit, a post-paid plan with a deposit is usually cheaper than prepaid.
Can I cancel my plan anytime?
It depends on your contract type. Month-to-month plans allow cancellation with 30 days’ notice and no fee. Two-year contracts charge an early termination fee.
Bell’s fee can reach $200 or more. If you are not sure how long you will stay at your address, choose a month-to-month plan.
The slightly higher monthly cost is cheaper than one early termination fee.
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!
