Canada Insurance Number: What it is and how to get it
A Social Insurance Number (SIN) is one of the first documents you need to get when you arrive in Canada.
A Social Insurance Number (SIN) is a nine-digit number used to identify you to the Government of Canada. You need it for employment, taxes, access to government programs and benefits, such as Employment Insurance and the Canada Pension Plan. Citizens and permanent residents of Canada and temporary residents can get a SIN. People as young as 12 years old can have a SIN.
There is no fee for applying for a social security number.
Where to get SIN in Canada
You can apply for a Canadian SIN in person, online, or by mail (under certain circumstances). The ability to apply online was introduced in 2020 due to the temporary closure of public service offices (Service Canada) because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Personal filing
In-person applications can be made by collecting the necessary documents and bringing them to the nearest Service Canada office.
Permanent residents must show their Permanent Resident Card (PR card). If you don't already have one, you can provide a Confirmation of Permanent Residence letter with your passport or other photo ID (such as a driver's licence) — but only for the first year of your permanent residency in Canada.
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