How to Get a Social Insurance Number (SIN) in Canada

One of the very first things you should do after arriving in Canada is apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN). It is a nine-digit number issued by Service Canada that you need to work in Canada and to access government programs and benefits. Without one, an employer cannot legally put you on payroll, and the government cannot connect your taxes or benefits to your file. The good news: applying is completely free, and most people can do it online in minutes. This guide explains what a SIN is, who can get one, the documents you need, and exactly how to apply.

What a SIN is and why you need it

A SIN is a confidential nine-digit number that the Government of Canada uses to identify you for work and for tax and benefit purposes. You will be asked for it in several common situations.

• Work. You must give your SIN to every employer so they can report your income to the Canada Revenue Agency.
• Taxes. You need a SIN to file your annual income tax return.
• Benefits and programs. Many government programs and services require a SIN before you can take part.

Because your SIN ties together so much of your financial life, treat it as a private number. Once you have one, you will be ready to start working and to handle your finances properly in Canada.

Who can get a SIN

Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and temporary residents can all apply for a SIN. What changes between these groups is the document you use to prove your status. Temporary residents, such as international students and foreign workers, are eligible as long as their permit or document authorizes them to be in Canada and, where relevant, to work or study.

Documents you need

To apply, you generally need two documents: one primary document that proves your identity and legal status in Canada, and one secondary document that confirms your identity. The exact primary document depends on your status.

• Canadian citizens use a Canadian birth certificate, a certificate of Canadian citizenship, or (for births abroad before 1977) a Registration of Birth Abroad.
• Permanent residents use their permanent resident card or related immigration document.
• Temporary residents use a work permit, study permit, or visitor record that shows they are authorized to be in Canada.

Your secondary document is something that confirms who you are, such as a passport or a government-issued driver's licence. Always confirm the current list for your situation on the official required-documents page before you apply, because requirements can vary by status.

How to apply: online, by mail, or in person

Service Canada offers three ways to apply, and there is no fee for any of them.

Online

Applying online is the fastest option and is recommended for most newcomers, including international students and foreign workers. You complete the application and upload images of your documents through the Government of Canada SIN portal. Most online applications are processed quickly, and you can view your SIN through your My Service Canada Account.

By mail

You can mail your completed application along with your original documents to the Social Insurance Registration Office in Bathurst, New Brunswick. Your documents are returned to you. Mail is slower than applying online, so plan ahead if you choose this route.

In person

You can also apply at one of the more than 300 Service Canada Centres across the country. If your documents are in order, staff can process your application during your visit, and you keep your documents.

How long it takes

Timing depends on the channel you choose. About 90% of online applications are processed within five business days, and you can then view your SIN in your My Service Canada Account. Mail applications take longer; if your application is complete, you will receive your confirmation of SIN letter by mail in about 20 business days. In person, a complete application can often be handled during the same visit.

Protecting your SIN

Your SIN is valuable to identity thieves, so guard it carefully. The best protection is to limit who has access to it.

• Only give your SIN when it is legally required, such as to your employer or for a government program.
• Do not use your SIN as a general piece of identification; use a passport or driver's licence instead.
• Do not carry your SIN card or confirmation letter in your wallet, and store it somewhere secure.
• If you believe your SIN has been used fraudulently, contact Service Canada right away.

Your SIN checklist

• Confirm your eligibility based on your status (citizen, permanent resident, or temporary resident).
• Gather your documents: one primary document for status and one secondary document for identity.
• Choose a channel: online (fastest), by mail, or in person at a Service Canada Centre.
• Apply for free and keep your confirmation safe.
• Give your SIN to your employer when you start work, and use it when filing taxes.
• Set up your money: with a SIN in hand you can comfortably open a bank account.