Is it possible to sign a short-term contract?

Key recommendation: For short-term use, choose providers with flexible terms (month-to-month) or mobile solutions (prepaid SIM cards and portable Wi-Fi), as most traditional fixed contracts require a minimum term of 12 months.

1. Types of Internet services in Calgary

1.1 Fixed Home Internet

  • Connects via cable (coaxial), DSL, or fiber optic network.
  • Preferred providers: Shaw, Telus, Rogers.
  • Typically a 1- or 2-year contract with a fixed monthly fee.

1.2 Month-to-Month Contracts

  • Allow you to cancel at any time without penalties, but have a higher monthly fee.
  • Telus PureFibre and Rogers Ignite offer a month-to-month option for new or existing customers.
  • May require a higher activation fee and no discounts.

1.3 Mobile Internet (Cellular Data)

  • Portable modems (“MiFi”) or USB devices with prepaid SIM cards.
  • Providers: Bell, Telus (Koodo), Rogers (Fido).
  • Flexible 30-day plans with no long-term commitments.

1.4 Satellite Internet Services

  • Option for remote areas: Starlink, Xplornet.
  • Connection without long-term contracts, but high equipment costs and monthly fees.

2. Standard Contract Terms

Provider Minimum term Early termination fee Month-to-month option Equipment transfer
Shaw 12 months $45/month until end No Can be purchased
Telus 12–24 months $20/month balance Yes (Premium plans) Rent or buy
Rogers 12 months $75/month balance Yes (Ignite Flex plan) Rent
Starlink No contract None – Purchase equipment

3. Advantages and disadvantages of short-term contracts

3.1 Advantages

  • Flexibility: ability to change plan or provider without penalties.
  • No long-term commitments.
  • Fast connection and service termination.

3.2 Disadvantages

  • Higher monthly cost compared to long-term contracts.
  • Possibility of lower connection quality or network priority (with Rogers Ignite Flex).
  • Additional activation and equipment costs.

4. Alternatives for short-term access

  • Month-to-Month: Telus PureFibre Flex, Rogers Ignite Flex – higher price, but no commitment.

  • Prepaid mobile modems:

  • Koodo Prepaid Mobile Wi-Fi: plans starting at $50 CAD for 30 GB.

  • Fido Prepaid Mobile Internet: starting at $70 CAD for 20 GB.

  • Guest Wi-Fi (for rental properties): Some condos or AirBnBs offer ready-made solutions with daily or weekly payment.

  • Public access points (Free Wi-Fi): Calgary Public Library, shopping malls, coffee shops – accessible points for temporary needs.

5. How to get short-term internet

  1. Determine your needs: traffic volume, speed (minimum 25–50 Mbps for normal use).
  2. Contact your chosen provider: check the availability of a month-to-month option and the activation conditions.
  3. Agree on equipment: modem/router rental or purchase of your own.
  4. Sign a contract specifying the term or month-to-month.
  5. Upon expiration, notify the provider in a timely manner of your desire to cancel the service.

6. Recommendations for newcomers to Canada

  • Choose month-to-month if you are staying in Calgary for less than 6 months.
  • Carefully check the activation fee and equipment cost.
  • Keep copies of all contracts in English to confirm payment and terms.
  • If you encounter any difficulties, contact the Alberta Consumer Protection Office for advice on consumer rights.

Conclusion: Although most traditional providers require a minimum 12-month contract, there are flexible month-to-month options and mobile solutions available on the market that allow you to access the internet for a short period without long-term commitments. For Ukrainian newcomers, this is the best way to ensure internet access during their adjustment period in Calgary.