⚠️ Heads Up: This perk isn’t officially marketed in the U.S., and Mastercard doesn’t promote it here. While some U.S. cardholders say it worked for them, it’s hit-or-miss.
International data and roaming plans aren’t the most “fun” parts of trip planning. But landing in a new country with no service? That’s less fun. 🫠
Just like Visa’s hidden eSIM perk, certain Canadian Mastercard holders can score free global data through a partnership with FlexiRoam. Some U.S. cardholders may qualify too, but it isn’t a widely marketed benefit in the U.S.
If your travel card qualifies, you’ll be able to take advantage of this benefit in over 120 countries (yay!).
Here’s how it works, how to claim it in minutes, and why it’s worth using even if you already have an international phone plan.
What Is FlexiRoam (and Why Should You Care)?
FlexiRoam is a global data roaming service that lets you get online abroad without swapping physical SIM cards or relying on hotel Wi-Fi… which can be… spotty, to say the least.
All you have to do is download the FlexiRoam app, install an eSIM (or request a physical SIM if your phone doesn’t support eSIM), and be connected right when you land.
FlexiRoam partners with 520+ networks across 120+ countries, so whether you’re headed to the middle-of-nowhere China or taking a popular Parisian vacation, you can easily stay connected without juggling SIMs.
How the Mastercard + FlexiRoam Perk Works
If you’ve got a Canadian-issued World or World Elite Mastercard, here’s what you get:
World Mastercard: One free 1 GB global data plan, valid for 5 days, once per calendar year.
World Elite Mastercard: Three separate 1 GB global data plans (that’s 3 GB total), each valid for 5 days, redeemable once per calendar year.
And no matter which tier you’re on, you’ll also get 15% off all future FlexiRoam data plans when you pay with your eligible Mastercard.
Not sure which tier you have? Look for the “World” or “World Elite” logo on your card — it’s usually near the Mastercard logo on the front or back.
👀 ICYMI: In the U.S., Mastercard does not officially publish this perk. Some World/World Elite U.S. cards may still qualify when you check through the FlexiRoam site, but eligibility isn’t guaranteed.
Why This Is a Great Perk
With this little partnership, you’re looking at:
Global coverage in 120+ countries (one setup for multiple trips, though the free data must be redeemed and used within the calendar year)
eSIM and physical SIM options, which are great for both newer and older phones
Multi-network access, so your phone can switch between carriers for the best signal
One setup for multiple trips, so your eSIM can be reused for future data plans
No more SIM-swaps or pocket Wi-Fi rentals
How to Claim Your Free Data
Just as a reminder, you’ll need an eligible Mastercard (World or World Elite), and an unlocked phone that supports eSIM, or request a physical SIM.
Download the FlexiRoam app
Sign up or log in with your email
On the homepage, tap “Check Eligibility” under the Mastercard redemption banner
Enter your 16-digit Mastercard number to verify
Redeem your free plan (World Elite: three 1 GB packs per year, World: one 1 GB pack)
Follow prompts to install your eSIM (or request a SIM to be mailed)
💡 Pro Tip: Remember to install the eSIM before your flight so it activates the moment you land.
Compatible Devices
Most newer smartphones support eSIM, including:
iPhones (XS and later)
Google Pixel models
Samsung Galaxy models
If your phone doesn’t support eSIM, you can still request the free physical SIM. Just remember: your device does need to be unlocked. If you bought it through a carrier, you may need to confirm eligibility with them before installing an eSIM.
Best Mastercard Travel Cards for This Perk
Here are a few Canadian cards known to unlock the FlexiRoam benefit:
BMO Ascend World Elite Mastercard
Scotiabank Passport World Elite Mastercard
CIBC Aventura World Elite Mastercard
Some U.S. cards may show eligibility in the app, but Mastercard does not officially advertise this perk stateside. We’re talking:
Chase Freedom Flex® — gets 1% cash back on every purchase and 5% back in quarterly rotating bonus categories
Bilt Mastercard — earns points on monthly rent, along with special “Rent Day” promos
Citi Prestige® Card (World Elite) — premium travel perks plus free FlexiRoam data
Barclays AAdvantage® Aviator® Silver Mastercard® (World Elite) — airline-specific perks and international data
Bottom Line
International data is that thing you don’t want to think about when traveling, but if you set yourself up for success, you shouldn’t even have to think about it once you land!
If you have a Canadian World or World Elite Mastercard, the FlexiRoam perk is essentially free money. U.S. cardholders may also get lucky when they check eligibility through the FlexiRoam app, but it’s not an officially marketed perk in the States.
Set it up once, enjoy it on every trip, and keep that $10 per day roaming fee in your pocket for something more important… like your next refrigerator magnet. 😎
