Switching Carriers?
It's easier than you think. Here's what actually happens when you switch, what the new CRTC rules mean for you, and what to watch out for.
How Number Porting Works
Number porting means transferring your existing phone number from one carrier to another. In Canada, this is your right under CRTC regulations — your carrier cannot refuse to release your number.
The process is simple: when you sign up with a new carrier, you give them your current phone number and account details. They handle the transfer behind the scenes. You don't need to call your old carrier to cancel — the port automatically closes your old account.
Important: Don't cancel your old plan before porting. If you cancel first, you could lose your number. Let the port process handle the cancellation.
The New CRTC Rules (2026)
Starting June 12, 2026, the CRTC has banned activation fees and cancellation fees for all Canadian wireless carriers. This is a big deal — these fees used to cost $50-$75 and were one of the biggest barriers to switching.
What this means for you:
- ✓No fee to activate a new plan
- ✓No fee to cancel your current plan
- ✓Carriers must also provide actual signal strength data (no more theoretical coverage maps)
What it doesn't change: If you're financing a phone through your carrier, you still owe the remaining balance on the device itself. That's not a “fee” — it's money you borrowed to buy the phone.
What to Ask Before You Switch
Do I still owe on my phone?
Check your latest bill or call your carrier. If you're on a device financing plan (like Smartpay), you'll need to pay off the balance before leaving.
Is my phone unlocked?
Since 2017, all phones sold in Canada must be sold unlocked. If yours is older, you can request an unlock from your carrier for free.
What coverage do I need?
If you travel outside major cities, check the coverage maps for your new carrier. Not all networks are equal in rural areas.
Am I getting a good deal?
Compare the total monthly cost, not just the plan price. Factor in device payments, extra fees, and what's actually included in the plan.
Common Fears (and the Reality)
"I'll lose my phone number"
You won't. Number porting is protected by the CRTC and takes a few hours. Just don't cancel your old plan before porting.
"It's going to be a huge hassle"
It's about 30 minutes of paperwork. Your new carrier handles most of it. You walk out with a working phone on a new plan.
"My phone won't work on the new network"
Most modern phones work on all Canadian networks. We can check yours in 30 seconds in-store.
"I'll have a gap with no service"
There's usually a brief gap during the port (under an hour). If you need to avoid this, switch in the evening when you're on Wi-Fi.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I lose my phone number when I switch?
No. In Canada, you have the right to keep your phone number when switching carriers. This is called number porting, and it's protected by the CRTC. The process is handled by your new carrier — you don't need to contact your old one.
How long does it take to switch carriers?
The actual number port usually takes a few hours, though in some cases it can take up to a business day. During the transfer, you might have a brief gap in service (usually under an hour). Your new SIM or eSIM will be active once the port completes.
Do I have to pay a cancellation fee?
Starting June 12, 2026, the CRTC has banned cancellation and activation fees across all Canadian carriers. If you're on a device financing plan, you'll still owe the remaining balance on the phone itself, but the carrier can't charge you a separate fee for leaving.
Can I switch if I'm still paying off my phone?
Yes, but you'll need to pay off the remaining device balance first. This is separate from any plan contract — it's money you owe for the physical phone. Once it's paid off, your phone will be unlocked and you're free to go.
What do I need to bring when switching?
Bring your current phone, a piece of government-issued ID, and your most recent bill from your current carrier (this has your account number, which speeds up the port). If you're doing a credit check for a new plan, you may also need a second piece of ID.
Thinking About Switching?
We'll walk you through the whole process — stop by or give us a call.
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Written by the Wireless Nerds team — real phone experts at our North York store helping customers choose the right plans and devices every day.