How to Apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN)

What is a SIN?

The Social Insurance Number (SIN) is a 9-digit number issued by the Government of Canada. You need a SIN to work in Canada or to access government programs and benefits. Your SIN is private, and it is illegal for anyone else to use it. You are responsible for protecting your SIN.

The SIN is managed by Service Canada, a federal agency, and applies across the country.

Who needs a SIN?

According to the official page, whether you need a SIN and its validity depends on your status in Canada:

• Temporary residents: Your SIN starts with "9" and expires with your immigration documents. Apply for a SIN if you:
• have a work or study permit that authorizes you to work and need your first SIN;
• need to extend your SIN because it is about to expire or has already expired;
• need to request a confirmation of your existing SIN.

• Canadian citizens and permanent residents: Your SIN is permanent and does not expire. Apply for a SIN if you:
• do not have one yet and are applying for the first time;
• need a confirmation of an existing SIN for you or your child;
• are registering a newborn in a Territory (Yukon, Northwest Territories, or Nunavut).

• Outside Canada and don’t have legal status: If you are eligible to get benefits or pension, you can submit an application to confirm your SIN.

How to find your SIN

If you don’t remember your SIN, the official page suggests checking:

• Your income tax return, tax slips (e.g., T4), Record of Employment, or Registered Retirement Saving Plan (RRSP) contribution receipt;
• Sign in to My Service Canada Account (MSCA) to view and print your SIN.

How to apply

The official page asks you to choose your current status first, then follow the link to the appropriate application page. Specific steps and required documents are provided on the "Temporary residents" or "Canadian citizens and permanent residents" pages.

Note: Service Canada no longer issues plastic SIN cards, but existing plastic cards can still be used. If you lost your card or it is damaged, you can request a Confirmation of SIN, and you will receive a letter in paper or digital format.

Other related services

• View and print your SIN online: Register or sign in to MSCA.
• Update your SIN record: For changes or corrections to personal information, legal name change, and status in Canada.
• Lost or damaged SIN: What to do if your SIN or child’s is missing, or if you find another person’s SIN.
• Fraud, misuse or identity theft: What to do if your SIN has been used fraudulently or exposed in a data breach.
• Protect your SIN: Tips to prevent identity theft, and key information for employees.
• Report a death: Notify the SIN program if the death occurs in a Territory or outside Canada.

Official source

• https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/services/sin.html