Your phone contract rights in Canada: the Wireless Code
Quick summary
The Wireless Code is a set of rules from the CRTC, Canada's telecom regulator. It gives you a 15-day trial to return a phone, free unlocking, no cancellation fee after 2 years and limits on extra data and roaming charges. If something goes wrong, start with your provider, then go to the CCTS. New to Canada? Start with the Newcomer Hub.
Checked November 10, 2026. Main source: CRTC: Protected by the Wireless Code (no date shown, last confirmed November 10, 2026). See all 2 sources.
Key facts
- Trial period
- 15 days to return the phone, using up to half your monthly usage
- Source: CRTC, read November 10, 2026
- Unlocking
- Free on request. New devices are sold unlocked
- Source: CRTC, read November 10, 2026
- After 2 years
- You can cancel without cancellation fees
- Source: CRTC, read November 10, 2026
The main rules
| Your right | What it means |
|---|---|
| Trial period | Return the phone within 15 days without penalty, using up to half your monthly usage. People with disabilities get 30 days and up to all of their usage. |
| Unlocked phones | A provider must unlock your phone free if you ask. New devices are sold unlocked. |
| Cancelling | After 2 years you can cancel without fees, even if you agreed to a longer term. |
| Bill shock | Extra data and data roaming charges are capped. Only the account holder can approve charges above the limits. |
| Plain language | Your contract and related documents must be in plain language. |
Source: CRTC: Protected by the Wireless Code (no date shown, last confirmed November 10, 2026).
Phone financing and cancellation fees
The CRTC says the Code applies to device financing plans and to early cancellation fees. If you buy a phone on a plan and want to leave early, ask the provider how the fee is worked out and get it in writing.
Source: CRTC: Protected by the Wireless Code (no date shown, last confirmed November 10, 2026).
How to make a complaint
- Contact your provider first and explain what went wrong.
- If you are not satisfied, contact the CCTS. It is the Commission for Complaints for Telecom-television Services.
- The CCTS covers phone, internet, wireless and TV providers in Canada, and it is free for consumers.
- The CCTS steps in only after you have tried to settle it with the provider.
Source: CCTS: Telecom complaints (modified July 12, 2026, read November 10, 2026).
Related guides
Questions people ask
What is the Wireless Code?
A set of rules from the CRTC for wireless providers in Canada. It covers contracts, trial periods, unlocking and charges.
How long is the trial period?
15 days. You can return the phone without penalty, using up to half your monthly usage. People with disabilities get 30 days.
Can I get my phone unlocked?
Yes. The CRTC says phones are unlocked free on request, and all newly purchased devices are unlocked.
Can I cancel my contract?
After 2 years you can cancel without fees, even if you agreed to a longer term. Before that, ask your provider how any fee is worked out.
Who do I complain to?
Your provider first. If you are not satisfied, the CCTS. It is free for consumers.