First-Week Guide

How to Get Your SIN in Canada as a Newcomer

Your Social Insurance Number (SIN) is a nine-digit number you need to work in Canada and to access government programs and benefits. It is one of the first things to arrange after you land, and there is no fee to apply.

Newcomer applying for a Social Insurance Number in Canada

Why It Matters

You need a SIN before you start working

Employers must ask for your SIN, and you also need it to file taxes, receive benefits such as the Canada Child Benefit, and open some financial products. Applying in your first week avoids delays when you start a job.

Required to work in Canada and to be paid by an employer
Used for taxes, government benefits, and some financial accounts
Free to apply online, by mail, or in person with Service Canada
Keep it private and share it only when legally required

Documents

Documents you need to apply

You need one primary document, plus supporting documents if your name differs from what is on it.

Permanent residents: a Permanent Resident card, or a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) if you apply within one year of becoming a permanent resident.
Temporary workers: a valid work permit.
International students: a study permit that states you may accept employment or work in Canada.
Name differences: if your name on the primary document is different from your current name, bring a supporting document such as a marriage certificate.
Proof of address: you will be asked for your mailing address in Canada.

How to Apply

Three ways to apply for a SIN

Online is usually the fastest option for newcomers.

Online

Apply through Service Canada's online SIN service by uploading digital copies of your documents. Your SIN is then sent to you once approved.

By Mail

Send copies of your documents to Service Canada's Social Insurance Registration Office. This is slower, and you should keep copies of everything you send.

In Person

Book an appointment at a Service Canada Centre. Bring your original documents, and you may get your SIN at the appointment if everything is in order.

Good to Know

Temporary SINs and protecting your number

SINs Starting With 9

If you are a temporary resident, your SIN starts with 9 and has an expiry date that matches your immigration document. When you renew your permit, you must update your SIN expiry too.

When You Become a PR

Once you become a permanent resident, contact Service Canada to update your SIN record so it no longer expires.

Protect Your SIN

Only share it with employers, banks, and government agencies when required. Landlords and most businesses do not need it, and asking for it can be a sign of fraud.

After You Get Your SIN

What to do once you have your SIN

Your SIN unlocks several other first-month steps.

Give it to your employer within three days of starting work, so you are paid and taxed correctly.
Add it to your bank profile if you opened an account before you had it.
Apply for benefits such as the Canada Child Benefit if you have children.
File a tax return each year, even with little income, because it keeps you eligible for benefits and credits.
Store it safely. Service Canada no longer issues plastic SIN cards, so keep your confirmation letter in a secure place.

Related Resources

Related guides for your move

Open a Bank Account

The next step after your SIN in week one.

Open Banking Guide →

First 30 Days in Canada

A full month-one checklist.

Open Checklist →

Get Your OHIP Card

Apply for Ontario health coverage.

Open OHIP Guide →

Canada Child Benefit

Monthly support for families with children.

Open CCB Guide →

Questions People Ask

SIN numbers: common questions

Apply online, by mail, or in person with Service Canada. Permanent residents use a PR card or Confirmation of Permanent Residence, and temporary residents use a valid work permit or a study permit that allows work.

No. There is no fee to apply for a Social Insurance Number.

Yes. Service Canada offers an online application where you upload digital copies of your documents. It is usually the fastest option.

It is a temporary SIN issued to people who are not Canadian citizens or permanent residents. It expires when your immigration document expires, so it must be updated when you renew your permit.

Employers, banks for interest-earning accounts, and government agencies can require it. Landlords and most businesses do not need it, so be cautious if they ask.

Want help with your first-week setup?

Book a consultation and we will help you plan your SIN, banking, OHIP, and other first-week tasks in the right order.

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