How to get a phone plan in Canada with no credit history
Quick summary
Scotiabank says phone companies in Canada either run their own credit check or ask you for one when you buy a monthly plan. A prepaid plan without data generally does not need a check, and having a credit card may mean no check is run. If you are new here, a prepaid plan is the simplest way to start. See our Newcomer Hub for the rest of your first steps.
Checked November 10, 2026. Main source: Scotiabank StartRight: Newcomers and credit score checks in Canada (read November 10, 2026). See all 3 sources.
Key facts
- Monthly plan
- A credit check is common
- Source: Scotiabank StartRight, read November 10, 2026
- Prepaid plan without data
- Generally no credit check
- Source: Scotiabank StartRight, read November 10, 2026
- If you have a credit card
- A check may not be run
- Source: Scotiabank StartRight, read November 10, 2026
Why a phone company checks your credit
A monthly plan means the company lets you use the service first and bills you later. A credit check tells it whether you are likely to pay.
If you just arrived, you may have no Canadian credit file. That does not mean you are refused. It means the company has less to look at.
Source: Scotiabank StartRight: Newcomers and credit score checks in Canada (read November 10, 2026).
Your main options at a glance
| Option | Credit check? | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Prepaid, no data | Generally not needed | The simplest start. Calls and text only |
| Prepaid with data | Ask the company | The source we read speaks only about plans without data |
| Monthly plan | Common | Ask about a deposit and what the company needs from you |
| Monthly plan with a credit card | May not be run | Scotiabank says having a card may mean no check |
Source: Scotiabank StartRight: Newcomers and credit score checks in Canada (read November 10, 2026).
Steps to take
- Start with prepaid if you only need calls, text and a little data. It does not tie you to a contract.
- Ask each company if it runs a credit check, and what it accepts if you have no Canadian credit file.
- Ask if a deposit is needed and when you get it back.
- Compare the plans on each company's own website. Prices and coverage change often, and coverage depends on your address.
- Read the contract. Your rights are set out in the Wireless Code. See the guide below.
Will it build your credit?
Not always. A phone plan helps your credit only if the company reports your payments. Many do not. A product made to report, such as a secured credit card, is a more reliable start.
Questions people ask
Can I get a phone plan in Canada with no credit history?
Often yes. Scotiabank says a prepaid plan without data generally does not need a credit check, and a monthly plan may need one. Ask each company what it accepts.
Do all monthly phone plans need a credit check?
Scotiabank says phone companies either run their own check or ask you for one when you buy a monthly plan. Having a credit card may mean no check is run.
Is prepaid cheaper than a monthly plan?
It depends on the plan. We do not list prices because they change often. Check each company's website.
Does a phone plan build credit for a newcomer?
Only if the company reports your payments. Many do not. Ask before you sign.
What if a company refuses me?
Try a prepaid plan, or ask what else it accepts. You can also build a credit file first with a secured credit card.