You've moved out of Canada. Maybe you're living in the UK now, working in Australia, or settling somewhere in Europe.
But your Canadian phone number is still linked to your bank, important accounts and people back home. Giving it up isn't always as simple as cancelling a mobile plan.
So, can you keep your Canadian phone number while living abroad?
Yes, in many cases. The best option depends on whether you need to keep your existing number or simply want a virtual Canadian number you can use overseas.
Let's break it down.
Why your Canadian number is harder to replace than you think
Most people assume cancelling their mobile plan is a straightforward part of moving abroad. Deal with the big stuff first - visa, housing, job - and sort the phone number later.
The problem is “later” sometimes arrives as an urgent login attempt from a new country, a bank flagging unusual activity, or a recruiter trying to reach you on the number you listed on your CV six months ago.
Canadian banks like TD, RBC and Scotiabank all send OTP verification codes to the mobile number on file. If that number goes dead while you’re overseas, regaining account access can take days rather than minutes.
Work contacts, old subscriptions and government services may also still rely on your number. Before you cancel anything, it’s worth knowing what’s actually connected to it.
5 ways to keep your Canadian phone number while living abroad
Not sure which option suits your needs? Keep scrolling to explore the options, including a more flexible way to use a virtual Canadian number abroad without a physical SIM.
1. Keep your Canadian SIM and continue paying for your plan
This is the most straightforward option. You keep your existing Canadian SIM in your phone and maintain your mobile plan while living overseas.
Depending on your provider and plan, you may be able to receive calls and SMS messages abroad, including important verification texts.
The downside? You could end up paying for a plan you barely use. Check your roaming charges, SMS availability and number-maintenance conditions before relying on this option long-term.
2. Switch to a lower-cost Canadian mobile plan
If your current plan is expensive, ask your provider whether a cheaper plan can keep your existing number active.
This can work well if you mainly need the number for occasional messages or account verification rather than everyday calls and data.
Just make sure the plan supports your needs while you're abroad. A cheaper plan won't help much if you can't receive the messages you need when you're overseas.
3. Use a local SIM or eSIM alongside your Canadian number
A local SIM or eSIM can provide mobile data and local connectivity in your new country without relying on Canadian roaming for everything.
For example, you could use a local plan for everyday data while keeping your Canadian line available for supported calls and SMS, depending on your device and provider.
The important distinction is that a local eSIM doesn't automatically preserve your Canadian number. You'll still need a separate arrangement to keep your existing Canadian line active.
4. Transfer your number to another eligible provider
If your current provider no longer suits you, transferring your existing number to another eligible provider may be an option.
Before starting, confirm that the new provider accepts your number and supports the service you need. Number transfers can also depend on your number's location and the provider's rules.
The CRTC's guidance on keeping your number when switching providers recommends arranging the transfer before cancelling your existing service.
5. Get a Canadian virtual phone number with Cooee
A Canadian virtual phone number can be a practical alternative. Instead of requiring a physical SIM for that number, it works through an app or web dialer using an internet connection.
With Cooee, you can get a new Canadian phone number and use supported calling and SMS features while overseas. It's useful for people who want Canadian contact details without managing another physical SIM.
You can also manage your number through the Cooee app or web dialer, making it easier to stay connected across locations.
Final thoughts
Keeping your Canadian phone number overseas doesn't have to mean paying expensive roaming charges indefinitely. You have several options, depending on whether you need to preserve your existing number or simply want a Canadian number you can use abroad.
For some people, a lower-cost mobile plan will do the job. For others, a new virtual phone number can offer a more convenient way to handle calls and supported messages while living overseas.
The key is to work out what you need before cancelling your current service. A little preparation now can save you a lot of frustration later.
