A Social Insurance Number (SIN) is a critical piece of personal identification used by Canadians and temporary residents for various purposes.
The following article will help you understand what a SIN Number is, who needs one, and how to apply to ensure you avoid delays in starting your job or receiving government assistance.
What is a Social Insurance Number?
A Social Insurance Number (SIN) is a 9-digit number issued by Service Canada, mandatory for all individuals who wish to work or access services in Canada. This number stays with a person for life and enables the government to identify and track individuals for employment, tax deductions, and benefits.
Who Needs a SIN in Canada?
Any individual living and working in Canada needs a SIN, regardless of their citizenship status, including Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and temporary residents.
Canadian Citizens and Permanent Residents
All Canadian citizens and permanent residents need a SIN, regardless of where they currently live. This applies to all age groups.
Temporary Residents
Temporary residents, such as international students, foreign workers, or visitors authorized to work in Canada, will also need to obtain a SIN.
A SIN for temporary residents will begin with “9” and have an expiry date matching their work or study permit end date.
Dependents and Children
Canadian children can get a SIN as soon as they are born, and parents often apply through provincial birth registration programs.
Permanent residents and temporary residents can apply for SINs for their dependent children or spouses. Children aged 12 and above can apply for their own individual SIN.
How to Apply for a SIN Number in Canada
There are three ways Canadians can apply for a Social Insurance Number: online, in person, and by mail.
Applying online through the Service Canada website is the most convenient way to obtain a SIN. Follow these 4 steps:
Step 1: You will need to create a MyServiceCanadaAccount (MSCA) if you do not already have one.
Step 2: Select “Apply for a SIN” and choose “First SIN application.”
Step 3: Next, fill out all required fields in the application form and upload clear copies of your documents.
Step 4: If approved, you will receive an email notification, and your SIN number will be displayed in your MSCA profile. No mailed letter is sent.
You can also apply for a SIN by visiting a Service Canada location near you. Bring your original proof of identity and status documents. You will receive a printed SIN number confirmation letter immediately.
Another option is to print and complete the Social Insurance Number application form and mail it to Service Canada, Social Insurance Registration Office, P.O. Box 7000, Bathurst, NB, E2A 4T1.
Required Documents
The required documents to apply for a SIN vary based on your status in Canada:
- For Canadian Citizens: Birth certificate or citizenship certificate
- For Permanent Residents: Permanent resident card or Confirmation of Permanent Residence
- For Temporary Residents: Valid work permit, study permit, or visitor record
- For All Applicants:
- Photo ID, like a passport or driver’s license
- Proof of address (e.g. phone bill, lease agreement)
- Supporting documents if the names differ on the proofs of ID
Documents not in English or French must be professionally translated. You’ll also need an attestation from a certified translator. Visit the Service Canada website for the complete list of accepted documents.
Check Your SIN Application Status
After applying, here is how you can check the status of your SIN application:
- If you applied through MyServiceCanadaAccount, you can view updates in your account.
- Call Service Canada at 1-800-206-7218. This is the toll-free number to inquire about your application by phone.
Applying online takes 5 business days, and applying by mail takes around 25 business days. If the processing time has exceeded and you have not received your SIN, contact Service Canada to follow up.
Receiving and Updating Your SIN Number
Once processed, your SIN will be issued along with a confirmation letter by mail unless you applied online and opted for digital delivery.
New SIN Format
Service Canada no longer issues plastic social insurance cards. All new SINs are provided in paper letter format. This letter contains your name, SIN, and confirms that the number belongs to you.
If you still have an unexpired plastic SIN card, it remains valid.
SIN Confirmation Letter
The confirmation of the SIN letter is an important document to store securely, as it can serve as proof that the SIN belongs to you.
Any time you need to update your SIN details, reference this letter or print a new one from your MSCA account.
Updating Personal Information
You must notify Service Canada if any of the following details change:
- Legal name
- The expiry date of the immigration document
- Status in Canada, like becoming a permanent resident
To update your SIN record, submit an application form and supporting documents to reflect the change. After reviewing your application, Service Canada will issue an updated SIN confirmation letter. Your SIN number stays the same.
Failure to update your SIN after a legal name change could lead to issues later when filing taxes, verifying employment, or accessing services.
When to Provide Your SIN Number
You must provide your SIN when your employer needs it for payroll, tax deduction, and to access certain government benefits, such as Employment Insurance and the Canada Pension Plan (CPP).
Banks and financial institutions need your SIN to open accounts that earn interest or to report investment income to CRA. The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) tracks income, deductions, and other tax purposes using your SIN.
Some businesses ask for your SIN number illegally. You can decline to provide your SIN number when:
- Renting an apartment
- Signing up for utilities
- Applying for loans and credit cards
- Enrolling in school
So, you should ask why they need it or offer an alternate ID instead.
How to Protect Your SIN
Your SIN is confidential. Here are three crucial tips to safeguard it:
- Keep any documents with your SIN in a secure location, such as a safe, locked filing cabinet, or safety deposit box. Never leave paper records in an unlocked drawer or inbox.
- Do not keep paper SIN records in your wallet, purse or anywhere that you take them in public. Only carry other identification, like a driver’s license, when going out.
- Government agencies will never call, email, or text to ask for your SIN. Hang up on suspicious calls. Report phishing emails. Never click links requesting your personal details.
If you suspect identity theft or improper use of your SIN, take immediate action by:
- Report it to the police and get a case reference number.
- Contacting the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
- Call Service Canada to begin investigating SIN misuse and apply for a new SIN if warranted.
- Update banking institutions, CRA, and anywhere else you previously provided your SIN.
In summary, this 9-digit identifier provides access to job opportunities, government programs, and education for all citizens, permanent residents and eligible temporary residents. Safeguard your SIN at all times by understanding when to share it, storing it securely, and reporting any misuse immediately.
FAQs on Social Insurance Number in Canada
What documents do I need to apply for a SIN?
Documents required include proof of identity and legal status in Canada, such as a passport, birth certificate, permanent resident card, work/study permit, and proof of address.
Where can I go to apply for a SIN in person?
You can visit any Service Canada location across Canada to apply and receive your SIN confirmation letter immediately. Find a Service Canada office near you on their website.
Why do I need a Social Insurance Number (SIN) in Canada?
A SIN is required to work, file taxes, open bank accounts, and access government programs and benefits. All Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and eligible temporary residents need a SIN.
When should I apply for a SIN?
Newcomers to Canada should apply for a SIN as soon as possible after arrival. You can start working as soon as you apply. Students should apply as soon as they receive their study permit.
Can I work without a SIN?
No, a valid SIN is legally required to work in Canada or receive benefits. Apply for a SIN as soon as possible to avoid delays.
Is my SIN the same for life?
Yes, your SIN stays the same for life in most cases. The exceptions are if your SIN was obtained fraudulently or if you become a permanent resident after having a temporary SIN starting with 9.
How do I report a lost or stolen SIN?
Contact Service Canada immediately if your SIN is lost or stolen. Monitor your credit and report any suspected fraud or misuse. Apply for a new SIN if your SIN has been used illegally.
