A Student's Guide: Roaming with an Indian SIM Card While Traveling to Canada

As the fall intake begins in September, many Indian students travel to Canada for the academic calendar that offers the widest range of courses and programs. Typically, students start their visa process and travel arrangements by July or August. With so much happening in these crucial months, there are countless details to manage, from securing your student visa to booking your flights & packing for the major move. Amidst all the planning, one essential aspect that should not be overlooked is your mobile connectivity—specifically, the advantages of keeping your Indian SIM card active with an international roaming plan, while in Canada. This guide will help you understand why and how to make the most of your Indian roaming plan.

Tips for Using your Vi International Roaming Plan in Canada Optimally:

1. Assess Usage: Assess your usage & requirements before you select a roaming plan. For example: If you are a data-heavy user, opt for a plan with unlimited data
2. Activate the Plan Before Departure: Ensure your international roaming plan is activated before you leave India to avoid any connectivity issues or bill shocks upon arrival.
3. Set Data Limits: Configure data usage alerts or limits on your phone to avoid exceeding your roaming plan’s data allowance.
4. Disable Automatic Updates: Prevent apps from updating automatically over roaming data by restricting updates to Wi-Fi only, preserving your data allowance, and avoiding unnecessary charges.
5. Use Offline Maps: Download maps and other essential apps for offline use, reducing the need for data while navigating in Canada.
6. Use Dual SIM Phones Smartly: If your phone supports dual SIMs, use a local Canadian SIM for data or local calls while keeping your Indian SIM active with a roaming plan for essential services like OTPs (One-Time Passwords) & bank communication.

How to Activate International Roaming on your Vi SIM Card

• Head to the international roaming plans page on the Vi App or website
• Enter your Vi number & select Canada as your destination
• Choose from Vi Roaming plans with 1-day to 1-month validity and select a pack based on your requirements
• Complete the payment using any of the payment modes and your pack will be activated

Before you leave for Canada, ensure that your SIM card is equipped with an international roaming plan. Vi offers affordable international roaming packs suitable for students and frequent travelers.

Not on Vi yet and missing out on all the benefits? Get a new Vi SIM card now and activate an international roaming plan to stay connected to family & friends while abroad!