How to Apply for a SIN Number as a New Immigrant in Canada

If you’re a new immigrant to Canada and you plan to work or study in the country, you’ll need a Social Insurance Number (SIN). Your SIN is a unique nine-digit number issued by the Canadian government, which you’ll use for tax and government benefits purposes. In this blog post, we’ll explain how to apply for a SIN number as a new immigrant, whether you choose to apply in person, by mail, or online.

Applying in Person: The Recommended and Fast Option

The easiest and fastest way to apply for a SIN number is in person at a Service Canada Centre. You’ll need to bring the following documents:

• Primary Identity Document:
  • 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
• Secondary Document:
  • If you have reached the age of majority in your province or territory of residence, you must provide one of the following documents. It must contain the legal name (family name and given name) and the date of birth.
    • A passport (Canadian or foreign)
    • A Canadian provincial or territorial ID card or driver’s license
    • Any other Canadian government-issued ID
• Supporting Document:
  • If the name on any document provided is different from the name on the SIN application, a legal document stating the most recent name used is required.

To request an appointment at a Service Canada Centre, please use the online service request form.

Applying by Mail

If you can’t apply in person, you can apply for a SIN number by mail. Here’s what you need to do:

• Primary Identity Document:
  • 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
• SIN Application Form Completed and Signed:
  • If you are unable to print the application form, you can order one by phone at 1-866-274-6627 (toll-free number) or, if outside Canada, at 1-506-548-7961 (long-distance charges will apply).
• Supporting Document:
  • If the name on any document provided is different from the name on the SIN application, a legal document stating the most recent name used is required.

Mail your SIN application to:

Service Canada Social Insurance Registration Office PO Box 7000 Bathurst NB E2A 4T1 Canada

If you submit your application by mail, Service Canada will return your documents by mail once your application is complete. Please note that Service Canada is not responsible for documents lost in the mail.

Applying Online

The online SIN application process is available to those who have a valid work or study permit, or who have been approved to work temporarily in Canada. Here’s what you need to provide:

• Primary Identity Document:
  • 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
• Secondary Document:
  • You must also provide a secondary document that shows your name and current address, such as a bank statement or utility bill.

To apply for a SIN number online, visit the Service Canada website and follow the step-by-step instructions. You’ll need to create an account, provide the necessary documentation, and answer a series of security questions to confirm your identity.

Once you submit your online application, you’ll receive a confirmation number. You can use this number to check the status of your application online.

In Conclusion

Getting a Social Insurance Number is an essential step for any new immigrant to Canada who plans to work or study in the country. Whether you choose to apply in person, by mail, or online, it’s important to ensure that you have all the necessary documentation and information before you begin.

Remember, your SIN number is a confidential and unique identifier that should be kept secure at all times. Don’t share your SIN number unless it’s necessary, and never give it out over the phone or online unless you are certain that it’s a secure and legitimate request.

With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to obtaining your SIN number and enjoying all the benefits that come with it. Good luck on your journey as a new immigrant in Canada!”