How to Get Your Social Insurance Number (SIN) in Canada
Your Social Insurance Number (SIN) is a 9-digit number issued by Service Canada. It is your gateway to legally working in Canada, filing taxes, and accessing government benefits. Get it on your first or second day — do not wait.
Apply for your SIN as soon as possible after landing. You need it to get paid, open investment accounts, file taxes, and receive government benefits like CCB and GST/HST credit.
Who needs a SIN?
- All permanent residents
- Canadian citizens
- Temporary workers on a valid work permit
- International students (for on-campus or co-op work)
- Anyone who wants to work legally in Canada
How to apply — 3 methods
- In person at a Service Canada Centre (fastest — same day) — Bring your original documents. They process your application immediately and give you your SIN on the spot. No appointment needed. Find your nearest centre at canada.ca/service-canada.
- Online (2–5 business days) — Go to canada.ca/apply-sin. Upload photos of your documents. Receive your SIN by mail or in your My Service Canada Account.
- By mail (5–20 business days — not recommended) — Send certified copies of your documents to Service Canada. Much slower — only use if you cannot get to a Service Canada Centre.
Documents required
- Permanent Residents: PR card OR Confirmation of Permanent Residence (IMM 5292 or IMM 5688)
- Temporary Workers: Valid work permit (IMM 1442)
- International Students: Valid study permit with off-campus work authorization
- All applicants: Secondary ID (passport, driver's licence, or birth certificate)
Temporary SINs (starting with 9)
Temporary residents receive a SIN beginning with the digit 9. This SIN expires when your immigration status expires. You must renew your SIN when you renew your permit. If your status changes to permanent residence, apply for a new permanent SIN.
Protecting your SIN from fraud
- Only give your SIN to your employer, bank, CRA, and Service Canada
- Never share it over the phone or by email unless you initiated the contact
- Store your SIN card in a safe place — memorize the number and do not carry the card
- Check your CRA My Account annually for any unfamiliar tax activity
- Report identity theft to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre: 1-888-495-8501
💡 Pro Tip: Service Canada offices in major airports (Toronto Pearson, Vancouver International, Montreal Trudeau) can issue your SIN the same day you land. Check hours before your flight.