How to Apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN) in Canada
By WelcomeAide Team
Quick Summary
- A Social Insurance Number (SIN) is a nine-digit number you need to work in Canada, file taxes, and access government benefits.
- You can apply in person at a Service Canada Centre or by mail. In-person applications are processed on the same day.
- You will need your primary identity document such as a permanent resident card, work permit, or study permit.
- There is no fee to apply for a SIN.
- If your SIN is lost or stolen, you should contact Service Canada at 1-866-274-6627 right away.
What Is a SIN and Why Do You Need One?
A Social Insurance Number (SIN) is a nine-digit number issued by the Government of Canada. It is one of the most important documents you will get after arriving in the country. You need a SIN to work legally in Canada, to file your income tax return, and to access government programs and benefits like the Canada Child Benefit and Employment Insurance.
Employers are required by law to ask for your SIN when you start a new job. Banks and financial institutions also need your SIN to report interest income to the Canada Revenue Agency. Without a SIN, you cannot be paid legally and you cannot file taxes, which means you may miss out on important benefits.
Who Can Apply for a SIN?
You can apply for a SIN if you are a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident, or a temporary resident with a valid work permit, study permit, or visitor record that authorizes you to work in Canada. Refugee claimants who have received a document from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) allowing them to work can also apply.
If you are a temporary resident, your SIN will start with the number 9. This type of SIN has an expiry date that matches the expiry date on your work or study permit. When you renew your permit, you will need to update your SIN record with Service Canada. For more information on permits, see our guide on navigating your first weeks in Canada.
Documents You Need to Apply
You must provide one primary document that proves your identity and legal status in Canada. Acceptable documents include:
- Canadian birth certificate (for citizens born in Canada)
- Canadian citizenship certificate or certificate of naturalization
- Permanent resident card or Confirmation of Permanent Residence (IMM 5292 or IMM 5688)
- Work permit issued by IRCC
- Study permit with a condition that allows you to work
- Visitor record with authorization to work
- Refugee protection claimant document
Warning
Photocopies are not accepted. You must bring original documents. If applying by mail, you must send the original documents, and they will be returned to you. Service Canada does not accept documents sent by fax or email.
If your primary document does not include your current legal name, date of birth, or gender, you may also need a supporting document such as a marriage certificate, legal name change document, or provincial or territorial birth certificate.
How to Apply In Person
The fastest way to get your SIN is to visit a Service Canada Centre in person. You do not need to fill out an application form ahead of time. A Service Canada officer will help you complete the process at the centre.
Bring your original identity document. The officer will verify your document, enter your information into the system, and provide you with your SIN. In most cases, you will receive your SIN the same day during your visit. There is no fee for this service.
To find the Service Canada Centre closest to you, visit the Service Canada office locator or call 1-800-622-6232. Many centres are open Monday to Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM local time. Wait times vary by location, so try to go early in the day or early in the week to avoid long lines.
Tip
If you are arriving at a major airport like Toronto Pearson, Vancouver International, or Montreal Trudeau, some airports have Service Canada kiosks in the arrivals area where you can apply for your SIN right after you land. This saves you a separate trip.
How to Apply by Mail
If you cannot visit a Service Canada Centre in person, you can apply by mail. Download and complete the SIN application form (NAS 2120) from the Government of Canada website. Print the form, fill it out, and mail it along with your original identity documents to the Service Canada address listed on the form.
Mail applications take about 20 business days to process from the date Service Canada receives your documents. Your original documents will be mailed back to you separately. If you do not receive your SIN or your documents within 25 business days, call Service Canada at 1-866-274-6627 (TTY: 1-800-926-9105).
Mailing Address for SIN Applications
Service Canada
Social Insurance Registration Office
PO Box 7000
Bathurst, NB E2A 4T1
Canada
Warning
Do not mail your documents using regular mail without tracking. Use registered mail or a courier service with tracking so you have proof that your documents were delivered. Original identity documents are difficult and expensive to replace if lost in the mail.
Processing Times
In-person applications at a Service Canada Centre are processed the same day. You will walk out with your SIN. Mail applications take approximately 20 business days after Service Canada receives your complete application and documents. During busy periods, such as September when many international students arrive, processing may take slightly longer.
SIN Confirmation Letter
Since 2014, the Government of Canada no longer issues plastic SIN cards. When you receive your SIN, you will get a SIN confirmation letter. Keep this letter in a safe place. Do not carry it in your wallet. Memorize your SIN number and store the letter with your other important documents. For tips on organizing your documents, check our essential documents guide.
What to Do If Your SIN Is Lost or Stolen
If you believe your SIN has been compromised, take these steps immediately:
- Contact Service Canada at 1-866-274-6627 to report the situation. They will add a note to your SIN record.
- Contact the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) at 1-800-959-8281 to protect your tax account.
- Contact the two major credit bureaus in Canada: Equifax Canada (1-800-465-7166) and TransUnion Canada (1-800-663-9980). Ask them to place a fraud alert on your credit file.
- File a report with your local police.
- Monitor your bank accounts and credit reports closely for any suspicious activity.
You can request a new SIN only if there is evidence that your SIN was used fraudulently. Simply losing your SIN confirmation letter does not qualify you for a new number. You can, however, request a confirmation of your existing SIN by visiting a Service Canada Centre with your identity documents.
Protecting Your SIN
Your SIN is a sensitive piece of personal information. Only share it when legally required, such as with your employer, your bank, or the CRA. Be cautious of anyone who asks for your SIN by phone, email, or text message. The Government of Canada will never ask for your SIN by email. If you receive a suspicious call or message, report it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501.
Tip
Never carry your SIN confirmation letter in your wallet. Memorize your nine-digit number and keep the letter locked away at home with other important documents like your passport and immigration papers.
Common Questions About the SIN
Can I start working before I get my SIN?
Yes, but only temporarily. Your employer can give you up to three days to provide your SIN after you start work. If you applied by mail and are waiting, let your employer know. They must still record your SIN once you receive it.
Does my SIN expire?
If you are a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, your SIN does not expire. If you are a temporary resident with a SIN starting with 9, your SIN expires when your work or study permit expires. You must renew your SIN record after you extend your permit.
Is there a fee for a SIN?
No. There is no fee to apply for, confirm, or update a SIN. If someone offers to get you a SIN for a fee, it is a scam.
Next Steps After Getting Your SIN
Once you have your SIN, you are ready to start working and building your life in Canada. Your next steps might include filing your first Canadian tax return, opening a bank account, and enrolling in provincial health insurance like BC MSP. Visit WelcomeAide to explore more settlement resources, or try our AI Newcomer Navigator for personalized help in your language. Learn more about our mission or browse our programs.