How to Get Social Insurance Number for Canada

If you intend to work, get paid, or access any government or educational services, such as student loans and scholarships, you need to obtain a Social Insurance Number for Canada. The Social Insurance Number (SIN) is a 9-digit number issued by Service Canada, a department in the Canadian government.

Why is a Social Insurance Number important for all Workers?

With a Social Insurance Number (SIN) in Canada, the

The government or a recruiter can reliably identify individuals for any job offer.
Individuals can access government benefits and programs
SIN is necessary for filing income tax returns and tracking financial information
It facilitates banking and financial services, including loans and credit
You need a SIN to process student loans and scholarships in Canada.
Do you need healthcare services and benefits? Do you own a SIN?
Also, it is a vital document for pensions, retirement planning, and accessing pension benefits
Required by some insurance companies for policy applications
Used for government services like driver’s licenses and vehicle registration
Keys for credit reporting, credit history, and credit scores
Determines eligibility for various tax credits and benefits

How do I get a Social Insurance Number?

A social insurance number (SIN) is used in Canada to identify individuals for various personal purposes in various organizations, including government agencies, employment, and financial transactions. If you intend to work in Canada, a SIN is a necessity.

To get the Canada Social Insurance Number, you must apply either online, by mail, or in person after you have met all the necessary requirements.

Who is Eligible to Apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN)?

If you are a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or temporary resident with valid permits that allow you to work in Canada, you are eligible. Certain temporary residents may not be eligible for a SIN, so check the eligibility criteria on the official website.

How to Apply for Social Insurance Number

You can apply for a Canadian Social Insurance Number (SIN) either online, by mail, or in person.

Apply by Online

To apply online,

Go to the Service Canada – Social Insurance Number website
Click the Apply online link
Upload primary or secondary documents securely.
If you are applying online as a Permanent Resident, you will upload primary documents, including a Permanent Resident card issued by IRCC or CIC, a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) issued by IRCC, and a record of a landing report issued by CIC
Secondary documents are also needed, including a passport (Canadian or foreign), a Canadian provincial or territorial ID card or driver’s license, and any other Canadian government-issued ID
If you are applying online as a Temporary Resident, you will upload one of the following primary documents: work permit issued by IRCC or CIC, study permit issued by IRCC or CIC which indicates the permit holder “may accept employment” or “may work” in Canada, visitor record issued by IRCC or CIC showing that you are authorized to work in Canada, diplomatic identity card; and a work authorization issued by Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development
Also upload one secondary document, including a passport (Canadian or foreign), a Canadian provincial or territorial ID card or driver’s license, or any other Canadian government-issued ID

Apply by Mail

To apply by mail,

First, download the Social Insurance Number application form online, print it, and fill out all fields.
Mail the completed form with all relevant primary and secondary documents (photocopies are not allowed) to the Social Insurance Registration Office.
Do not use your personal email to mail the form. It will return the same as you sent the forms.

Apply in Person

To apply in person,