Ben Nguyen 
A Social Insurance Number – SIN Number, is a critical piece of identification required for all individuals who want to work or access services in Canada. This 9-digit number enables the government to identify you and confirm your eligibility for employment, tax deductions, and benefits.
Understanding what a SIN Number is, who needs one, and how to apply can ensure you avoid delays in starting your job or receiving government assistance. This guide will provide everything you need to know about getting a Social Insurance Number in Canada.
Who Needs a SIN Number in Canada?
There are five categories of individuals who require a SIN:
Canadian Citizens
All Canadian citizens need a SIN number, regardless of where they currently live. A SIN number is required for reporting income taxes, accessing government benefits, and confirming eligibility to work.
Permanent Residents
Permanent residents are also required to have a valid Social Insurance Number. This applies to all age groups. Permanent residents use their SIN number for education, employment, government services, filing taxes, and more.
Temporary Residents
Temporary residents like international students, foreign workers, or visitors who are authorized to work in Canada will need to get a SIN number as well.
For temporary residents, SIN number will begin with “9” and have an expiry date matching their work or study permit end date.
International Students
International students with a valid study permit that allows them to work on or off campus need a SIN number to work while enrolled in school or university. Their SIN number will typically start with “9” and expire when their study permit expires.
Dependents and Children
- Canadian children can get a SIN number 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 number.
In summary, the Social Insurance Number is mandatory for any individual living and working in Canada, regardless of their citizenship status. Eligible temporary residents and children can also obtain a SIN number.
How to Apply for a SIN Number?
There are three ways newcomers to Canada can apply for a Social Insurance Number:
Online
Applying online through the Service Canada website is the fastest and most convenient option.
- To apply online, select “Apply for a SIN” and choose “First SIN application.”
- You will need to create a MyServiceCanadaAccount (MSCA) if you do not already have one.
- Next, fill out all required fields in the application form and upload clear copies of your documents.
- If approved, you will receive an email notification, and your SIN number will be displayed in your MSCA profile. No mailed letter is sent.
In Person
Visit a Service Canada location near you to apply in person. Bring your original proof of identity and status documents. You will receive a printed SIN number confirmation letter immediately.
By Mail
Print and fill out the Social Insurance Number application form. Mail the completed forms and your original documents to:
Service Canada
Social Insurance Registration Office
P.O. Box 7000
Bathurst, NB
E2A 4T1
It takes around 25 business days to receive your SIN confirmation letter by mail.
Required Documents
To apply for a SIN, you must provide supporting identity documents. Required documents 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 names differ on proofs of ID
Visit the Service Canada website for the full list of accepted documents for each status type.
Translation Requirements
Documents not in English or French must be professionally translated. You’ll also need an attestation from a certified translator.
How to Check Your SIN Application Status?
After applying, here is how you can check the status of your SIN application:
- Online Account: If you applied through MyServiceCanadaAccount, you can view updates in your account.
- Call Service Canada: 1-800-206-7218 is the toll-free number to inquire about your application by phone.
- Processing Timelines:
- Online applications take 5 business days
- In-person applications provide instant SIN confirmation
- By mail takes 20-25 business days
If it has exceeded the processing time and you have not received your SIN, contact Service Canada to follow up.
Receiving and Updating Your SIN Number
Once processed, your SIN number 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 SIN cards. All new SINs are provided in paper letter format. This letter contains your name, SIN, and confirms 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.
Changing Names
If you change your name, you must legally update your SIN record. This applies to name changes due to:
- Marriage or divorce
- Legal name change
Submit your name change certificate and fill out the SIN record amendment forms.
Failure to update your SIN after a legal name change could lead to issues later when filing taxes, verifying employment, or accessing services.
Reporting Fraudulent Use
If you suspect someone else is fraudulently using 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.
You’ll need to provide supporting documents like police reports and creditor letters confirming improper use.
Protecting Your SIN
Never share your SIN unnecessarily, and keep any documents containing your SIN in a secure place.
Report lost cards immediately and shred any paper records you no longer need.
Monitor your credit reports regularly for any suspicious activity.
When to Provide Your SIN Number?
You must provide your SIN number in these situations:
Employers
Your employer needs your SIN numberfor payroll, tax deduction, EI, and CPP contributions.
Employers can only ask for your SIN number after hiring you. It should not be required during the job application process.
Filing Taxes
Your SIN number is needed to file your tax returns each year with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). CRA tracks income, deductions, and other tax purposes using your SIN.
Read more: Average Income in Canada
Opening Bank Accounts
Banks and financial institutions need your SIN number to open accounts that earn interest or to report investment income to CRA.
Accessing Government Benefits
Programs like Employment Insurance and the Canada Pension Plan need your SIN number to confirm eligibility and track your usage of social benefits.
Your SIN number connects you to your contributions and entitlements.
When Not Required
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
Ask why they need it. Offer alternate ID instead.
How to Protect Your SIN?
Your SIN number is confidential. Here are five crucial tips to safeguard it:
Storing Documents Securely
Keep any documents with your SIN in a locked location like a safe, locked filing cabinet, or safety deposit box. Never leave paper records in an unlocked drawer or inbox.
Not Carrying Your SIN Card
Do not keep paper SIN records in your wallet, purse or anywhere that you take in public. Only carry other identification like a driver’s license when going out.
Recognizing Scams
Government agencies like CRA 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.
Reporting Compromised SINs
If you suspect identity theft or improper use of your SIN, contact police and Service Canada right away. Monitor your credit reports closely for signs of fraud.
Immediately report lost or stolen SIN records and apply for a new SIN if critical documents were compromised.
What to Do If Stolen/Used Fraudulently
If you confirm that someone else used your SIN number illegally, take these steps:
- File a police report and get a copy of the official document.
- Contact credit bureaus and place a fraud alert on your account.
- Review credit reports and contact any creditors where new accounts were opened fraudulently.
- Visit Service Canada with your police report and proof of misuse to apply for a new SIN.
- Update banking institutions, CRA, and anywhere else you previously provided your SIN.
Applying for Dependent Children
Parents and legal guardians can apply for SINs on behalf of minors and dependent children:
Newborns
When registering your child’s birth in Canada, you can directly apply for a SIN through your provincial newborn registration service.
If born outside Canada, apply via Service Canada after arrival.
Minors
Children under age 18 require a parent/guardian to apply on their behalf with the child’s identity documents.
Students
Dependent post-secondary students need SINs for part-time work on campus. Apply through Service Canada.
What Parents/Guardians Need
Provide your own proof of ID and status in Canada, along with your child’s birth certificate and proof of address.
For temporary residents, the child’s study or visitor permit is also required.
Temporary SINs
Temporary residents receive SINs that start with “9” and expire with their work or study permit.
Format
The “9” indicates a temporary SIN number assigned to non-citizens and non-permanent residents.
Expiry Dates
The expiry date is tied to the end date of your work or study permit in Canada.
Once a permit is renewed, your SIN number must also be updated to reflect the new validity period.
Updating New Permits
When your temporary status is extended, immediately apply for a new SIN with your updated permit expiration date.
Maintain a valid SIN that matches your authorized duration of stay in Canada. You cannot work legally with an expired SIN.
Summary
Obtaining a Social Insurance Number is mandatory for living and working as a newcomer to Canada. 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. Execute the application process properly by using this guide to prepare your documents, apply through the optimal channel, and comply with all requirements.
With your SIN in hand, you can now begin integrating into the fabric of Canadian society, educating yourself, contributing your skills through legal employment, and accessing supports when needed.
FAQs on Social Insurance Number in Canada:
How do I apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN) in Canada?
You can apply for a SIN online through Service Canada, in person at a Service Canada location, or by mailing an application form and documents to Service 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.
How long does it take to get a SIN?
Online applications take 5 business days, in-person is instant, and by mail takes 20-25 business days on average.
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 can I check the status of my SIN application?
You can check your Service Canada account online, call Service Canada, or wait for processing times (5 business days online, 20-25 by mail).
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.
