Many people are asking: can I use my Tracfone in Canada? Would I be able to use my Tracfone to contact friends and loved ones in Canada?
In this guide, we will be walking you through the possibility of doing so! Furthermore, we will be giving you a step-by-step guide on how you can use your Tracfone-purchased device in Canada!
If you’re asking whether you’ll be able to use your Tracfone in Canada, you actually wouldn’t be able to. Tracfone does not allow the activity of roaming. However, if you’re asking about using it to call internationally, you’ll be able to do so!
Before we get into that topic a little bit further, let us discuss the possibility of Tracfone roaming.
Can You Use Tracfone While Roaming Out of the Country?
The common misconception that people have when it comes to using Tracfone internationally is the fact that it’s possible. But, in reality, that is not how it works!
The term “roaming” for Tracfone applies when a Tracfone phone goes outside the local network coverage area; when it continues to make outgoing calls or receive incoming calls, texts, and even when mobile data is turned on.
It’s not the roaming that we know about when you go and travel abroad.
But, if that’s the case, would you be able to use your Tracfone to call internationally? Can I use my Tracfone to call Canada?
Using Your Tracfone to Call Internationally
One of the primary benefits and features of Tracfone is its ability to call an international number.
Basic International, like how the company calls it, is the feature of all Tracfones wherein they’re able to call many different international destinations from all around the world!
So, how do you use Tracfone’s basic international plan? What is the correct and appropriate dialing method you need to do?
Here are the steps you need to follow to be able to call Canada using your Tracfone:
- Using your Tracfone, dial 305-938-5673.
- Press 1 for English; 2 for Spanish.
- Then, dial 1 + City Code + Telephone Number that you want to call and contact.
NOTE: If it’s taking too long to connect, do not attempt to restart it or press any buttons. Allow it to run by itself because interrupting it can disconnect you from the line.
Now that we’re aware of the possibility of using your Tracfone to call internationally, can you use your Tracfone in Canada or in any other foreign country?
How Can I Use My Tracfone in Canada? (Unlocked TracFone)
If you’re thinking that Tracfone is just like any other provider, think again! Tracfone is a provider that isn’t capable of international roaming.
The roaming allowed by Tracfone for its devices would only be roaming within the country.
As we mentioned above, roaming does not actually refer to the movement of the phone from an international point of view. So, does that mean that you wouldn’t be able to use your Tracfone in Canada?
Using your Tracfone in Canada is actually possible. However, it’s not like how you’d use roaming services and packages from other providers. For you to be able to use your Tracfone in Canada, you have three ways – we’ll discuss that below.
Important: Before doing that, though, it’s important to note that your Tracfone device is unlocked so it’ll be compatible with SIM cards from other providers.
Method #1. Purchasing a Local Canadian SIM Card
This first option is typically known to be the simplest and most convenient when it comes to using your Tracfone in Canada.
Aside from the fact that you’ll be able to purchase it for a low amount, you would never worry about incurring high charges and fees because you’ll be using their towers “locally.”
Here’s the process of how you can use a Canadian SIM card on your Tracfone device:
- Ensure that your Tracfone is unlocked.
- Purchase a local Canadian SIM card.
- Turn your Tracfone off completely.
- Remove the Tracfone SIM card from your device; insert the local Canadian SIM card.
- Wait for the system to detect the changes and adapt to local Canadian towers.
But, what if you want to keep in contact with people from the U.S. while you’re there? It will be expensive to pay for high charges and fees, so, what other options do you have?
Method #2. Purchasing a Different Provider’s SIM Card
Instead of purchasing a local Canadian SIM card, you also have the option to purchase a U.S. SIM card that allows roaming to neighboring countries as well as international countries.
Providers like AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, Sprint, and others! These providers have roaming packages where you’ll be allowed to use your device like how you normally use it while in the country!
The process of installing it on your phone is the same as the first method.
Method #3. Purchasing an International SIM Card
Last, but most definitely not least is by buying and using an international SIM card.
Nowadays, convenience stores from all around the globe offer international SIM cards, which are designed and intended for frequent travelers like you!
The country is home to many different kinds and types of international SIM cards. The most common ones include Surfroman, WorldSIM, SimCorner, and others!
Take note, that the only requirement for you to be able to use your Tracfone comfortably in Canada is by doing these three. And, you wouldn’t be able to do it if your phone is locked with Tracfone.
I’m Not Able to Use a Different SIM Card, What Should I Do?
If you’re eager to use your Tracfone device during your travels in Canada, but, unfortunately, it’s still locked as a CDMA, then there’s no way for you to change this setting.
When your device is locked, what this simply means is that it’s solely going to work on the network it’s locked onto. This could be what’s hindering you from inserting a different provider’s SIM card into your Tracfone device.
Should this be the only option you have, then you can’t do anything but change the phone you’ll be bringing across the border.
Read Next: How to Transfer TracFone Minutes between Phones?
Bottom Line
TracFone doesn’t allow any roaming plan like other operators and hence you cannot use TracFone in Canada. However, if it’s “unlocked” you will still be able to use it by inserting a different SIM card.
In the event that you find yourself in the bubble of wonder asking, can I use my Tracfone in Canada, again, go back to this guide and indulge in the accurate and precise steps and instructions we’ve gathered and put up!
Kevin has over five years of experience working in various Tech startups and providing Technical solutions. He has contributed to many Tech publications and websites. Check out more about him here.