Canada · Newcomer setup · Last verified September 18, 2026
A Social Insurance Number (SIN) is a confidential 9-digit number used to work in Canada and access certain government programs and benefits. Service Canada issues SINs, and applying is free.
Quick answer
- Cost: Free.
- Ways to apply: Online, in person at a Service Canada Centre, or by mail where applicable.
- Online processing: Service Canada says about 5 business days to view your confirmation through My Service Canada Account (MSCA) or before it is mailed.
- In person: If everything is in order, Service Canada says you can get your SIN during the visit.
- Plastic card: No. Service Canada no longer issues plastic SIN cards.
1. Check that you need to apply
You need to submit a SIN application when you are getting a SIN for the first time, confirming an existing SIN, correcting information, or extending the expiry date of a temporary SIN that starts with 9. If you already know your SIN, you may be able to view and print it through My Service Canada Account instead of applying again.
2. Gather the right documents
Service Canada generally requires one primary identity document that proves your status in Canada and, for adults, one secondary identity document that confirms your identity. If your current legal name differs from the name on your primary document, supporting name-change documents may also be required.
| Your status | Examples of primary documents listed by Service Canada |
|---|---|
| Permanent resident | Permanent Resident card, or a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) that meets Service Canada’s conditions |
| Temporary worker | Valid work permit authorizing work in Canada |
| International student | Valid study permit stating that you “may accept employment” or “may work” in Canada |
| Other temporary resident authorized to work | Eligible IRCC document, such as a visitor record that shows authorization to work |
For permanent residents using a COPR, Service Canada currently states that a COPR is acceptable within one year of becoming a permanent resident; after that, the PR card is required for this purpose. Always use the official document selector before applying because requirements depend on your situation.
A secondary document for an adult must show your legal name and date of birth. Examples listed by Service Canada include a Canadian or foreign passport, a Canadian provincial or territorial ID card or driver’s licence, or another Canadian government-issued ID.
3. Choose how to apply
Apply online
Service Canada currently recommends online applications for faster processing. Upload clear digital copies of the required original documents, including the full document and its borders. Documents must be valid and in English or French, or submitted with the required translation documentation.
For online applications, Service Canada currently says processing is about 5 business days to view the SIN confirmation through MSCA or before the confirmation is mailed.
Apply in person
You can apply at a Service Canada Centre. Bring the required original documents. Service Canada states that if everything is in order, you will get your SIN during your visit and you will not need to leave your documents behind.
Apply by mail
Mail applications are supported in eligible situations. Service Canada requires original documents for mail applications and returns them by mail. Its current published processing time is about 20 business days. Because sending original identity documents carries risk, check the official instructions before choosing this route.
Turtle tip
Ignore websites that charge you simply to obtain a SIN. Service Canada charges no fee to apply or update a SIN.
4. Temporary residents: SINs that start with 9
SINs issued to temporary residents start with 9. Service Canada states that the SIN expiry date matches the expiry date on the work permit, study permit, or other immigration document that authorizes work.
If you receive a new immigration document with a new expiry date, update your SIN record. If your immigration status changes from temporary resident to permanent resident, Service Canada also requires an update to the SIN record.
Service Canada’s current guidance also says that a temporary resident who is legally authorized to work can start working after applying for a SIN; they do not need to wait for the number to be issued.
5. Protect your SIN
Your SIN is confidential. Service Canada recommends limiting who can access it and not carrying your SIN confirmation letter in your wallet or bag.
- Provide it when legally required: for example, to an employer after you are hired and begin working, to a financial institution for an account that earns reportable income such as interest or dividends, and for certain government programs and tax purposes.
- You generally do not need to provide it: for a job application, rental application or lease negotiation, most telecom services, a credit-card application, mortgage or line of credit, or as general identification.
- Be cautious with unsolicited requests: Service Canada says it will never call or email you and ask for your SIN and/or credit-card number.
6. Newcomer SIN checklist
- Confirm that your immigration document authorizes you to work, if applicable.
- Use Service Canada’s document selector for your exact status.
- Prepare your primary identity document.
- Prepare the required secondary identity document.
- Prepare supporting name-change documents if applicable.
- Apply online or visit a Service Canada Centre.
- Save the confirmation securely and share the SIN only when legally required.
- Update the SIN record whenever your temporary immigration document or status changes.
Official sources checked
- Service Canada — Apply for a SIN
- Service Canada — Required documents
- Service Canada — SIN for temporary residents
- Service Canada — Protect your SIN
Verification date: September 18, 2026. Rules and processing times can change; use the linked Government of Canada pages for the latest case-specific requirements.
Next step: Getting your SIN is one part of setting up life in Canada. Use our first 30 days in Canada checklist to plan the other essentials.
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