By TaxNorth Editorial Team
Before you can start working or filing taxes in Canada, you need a Social Insurance Number (SIN). This nine-digit number is your official ID for government services and employers.
Your Social Insurance Number is issued by Service Canada, not the Canada Revenue Agency. The application is completely free. Service Canada no longer issues plastic cards — instead you receive a paper Confirmation of SIN letter. Keep this letter safe at home and never carry it in your wallet.
The documents required depend on your immigration status. Permanent residents can generally use their PR card or Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) along with a passport. Temporary residents need a valid work permit or study permit that explicitly authorizes work in Canada. You also need a secondary identity document. If your documents are not in English or French, you must provide a certified translation. Check Service Canada's current guidance for the complete document list for your specific situation.
You can apply online, by mail, or in person at a Service Canada Centre. Applying in person is usually the fastest option — if you bring all your original documents, you will typically receive your SIN the same day. Online applications require clear digital scans of your documents. In person or online is generally the better choice.
If you are in Canada on a work or study permit, your SIN will start with the number 9. Your SIN record has an expiry date tied to your permit. When you renew your permit, update your SIN record with Service Canada. If you have maintained status — meaning you applied to renew your permit before it expired and are waiting for a decision — you may be permitted to continue working while your application is pending. Review Service Canada's current guidance on maintained-status situations. If you become a permanent resident later, your SIN will be replaced with a permanent one.
Anyone 12 years of age or older can apply for their own SIN. If you have children under the legal age of majority in your province, you can apply on their behalf as a parent or legal guardian. Getting a SIN for your children early is helpful if you plan to open a Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP).
How much does it cost? Getting a SIN is completely free. Never pay a third-party website that promises to get a SIN for you. Can I start working before I receive my SIN? You can start working if you have already applied and are waiting, as long as your permit authorizes work. What happens if my work permit expires? Your SIN record expires on the same date. Renew your immigration status first, then update your SIN record with Service Canada.
Questions about getting your SIN or what to do first when you arrive? Ask TaxNorth — free guidance in any language.
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