Your Social Insurance Number unlocks work, banking, and government benefits. Get it within your first week.
What is a SIN and why do you need it urgently?
A Social Insurance Number (SIN) is a 9-digit number issued by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). It is required before you can legally work in Canada, open most bank accounts, file taxes, receive government benefits, and contribute to the Canada Pension Plan or Employment Insurance.
Without a SIN, your employer cannot legally put you on payroll, and many financial institutions will only give you a limited account. Getting your SIN is the single most time-sensitive administrative task when you land.
Source: Employment and Social Development Canada — Social Insurance Number
Who is eligible to get a SIN?
You can apply for a SIN if you are a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or a temporary resident with a valid work or study permit. Visitor visa holders (tourists) are generally not eligible for a SIN unless they obtain authorization to work.
✓Permanent Residents
Permanent Resident (PR) card or Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) letter
✓Work Permit Holders
Valid work permit issued by IRCC
✓Study Permit Holders
Study permit showing authorization to work (or a separate work permit)
✓Canadian Citizens (new)
Canadian passport or citizenship certificate
How to apply: online, in person, or by mail
Service Canada offers three application methods. Most newcomers find the online option fastest.
1Online (fastest — 1 to 5 business days)
Apply at
canada.ca/sin/apply. You upload digital copies of your documents. Your SIN is mailed to your Canadian address. Best option if you already have a confirmed mailing address.
2In person at a Service Canada Centre
Walk in or book an appointment. Bring original documents — no photocopies. You receive your SIN the same day. Best option if you need your SIN immediately to start work.
3By mail (slowest — 10+ business days)
Mail certified copies of your documents to ESDC. Only recommended if you cannot access a Service Canada office or online application. Do not mail original documents.
Documents you need to bring
You need to bring one primary identity document. Service Canada accepts the following for newcomers:
- →Permanent Resident card (both sides)
- →Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) — IMM 5292 or IMM 5688
- →Work permit issued by IRCC
- →Study permit (if it authorizes work)
- →Foreign passport with valid Canadian visa
If your name has changed (e.g., marriage), bring a supporting document such as a marriage certificate. All foreign documents must be in English or French — bring certified translations if needed.
After you receive your SIN
Once you have your SIN, take these steps immediately:
NextOpen a Canadian bank account
Most banks require your SIN for a full account. Use a newcomer banking program for the best deal.
NextGive it to your employer
Your employer needs it for payroll, T4 slips, and remitting CPP and EI contributions.
NextRegister with the CRA
Create a My CRA Account at canada.ca/cra to file taxes, track refunds, and apply for benefits.
NextProtect it like a password
Only share your SIN when legally required. Never send it by email or text. Misuse of a SIN is a federal offense.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a fee to get a SIN?▼
No. A SIN is completely free. Anyone who charges you to get a SIN is a scammer.
What if my SIN starts with a 9?▼
A SIN beginning with 9 is issued to temporary residents (work/study permit holders). It is valid only for as long as your permit is valid. When you become a permanent resident, you get a new SIN that starts with a different digit.
Do I need a SIN to open a bank account?▼
Not always. Some banks allow newcomers to open a basic account with their immigration documents. However, providing a SIN enables full account features and faster processing.
Can I work without a SIN while I wait?▼
If you have applied and are waiting, some employers will let you start work — but they must remit your taxes and source deductions once you provide your SIN. Get it before starting work whenever possible.