You can get a Social Insurance Number (SIN) for free from Service Canada by applying online, in person at a Service Canada Centre, or by mail. You need a primary identity document such as a birth certificate, citizenship certificate, permanent resident document or a valid work or study permit, plus proof of address. A SIN is required to work in Canada and to access many government programs and benefits.
Quick answer: gather your primary document, any secondary document if your name differs, and proof of address, then apply through Service Canada. There is no fee. Never pay a third party to get a SIN.
Requirements can change; check the official Government of Canada SIN page before applying.
Who needs a SIN?
- Anyone who works in Canada.
- Anyone who wants to receive government benefits and services, such as Employment Insurance, the Canada Pension Plan or certain tax credits.
- Parents opening an RESP for a child, since the child’s SIN is needed to receive federal grants; see our article on RESPs and the Canada Education Savings Grant.
Three ways to apply
| Method | How it works | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Online | Upload digital copies of your documents through Service Canada | Most people with clear, valid documents |
| In person | Visit a Service Canada Centre with original documents | Complex situations, urgent needs, newcomers who want help |
| By mail | Send the application form and documents to Service Canada | People far from a centre (originals are returned by mail) |
Full instructions are on the official Social Insurance Number page. Many newborns now get a SIN through the birth registration process when parents request it.
Documents you need
- A primary document proving identity and status, for example:
- Canadian birth certificate (for those born in Canada);
- Canadian citizenship certificate;
- Permanent resident card or Confirmation of Permanent Residence;
- Work permit or study permit that authorizes work.
- A secondary document if the name on your primary document is different from the name you use (for example, a marriage certificate).
- Proof of address, such as a utility bill, bank statement or lease.
Documents in a language other than English or French may need a certified translation.
SINs for temporary residents
A SIN that begins with the number 9 is issued to people who are not Canadian citizens or permanent residents, such as international students and temporary foreign workers. It has an expiry date that matches your immigration document. When you get a new permit or become a permanent resident, you must update your SIN record with Service Canada.
How to protect your SIN
Your SIN is confidential. Identity thieves use it to open credit, file false tax returns or claim benefits.
- Give your SIN only when required by law or for a legitimate program: your employer, your bank for interest-bearing accounts, the CRA, government benefits.
- Landlords, retailers and most businesses do not need it. Ask why it is required before giving it.
- Never send your SIN by email or text in response to an unsolicited message. Read our guide to recognizing phishing.
- Do not carry your SIN confirmation letter in your wallet.
- Check your credit report regularly for accounts you did not open; see how to check your credit score.
If your SIN is stolen or misused
- Contact Service Canada.
- Report the theft to your local police and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
- Contact the credit bureaus to place a fraud alert.
- Notify your bank and the CRA if financial or tax fraud is suspected.
SIN application checklist
- ☐ Primary document valid and original (or clear digital copy for online).
- ☐ Secondary document if your name is different.
- ☐ Proof of address.
- ☐ Translations if needed.
- ☐ Application submitted through official Service Canada channels only.
- ☐ SIN letter stored securely at home.
FAQ
How much does a SIN cost?
Nothing. Applying for a SIN is free. Websites that charge a fee are not official.
Is there a SIN card?
Service Canada no longer issues plastic SIN cards; you receive a confirmation letter with your number.
Can I start working before I get my SIN?
You need a SIN to work. Apply as soon as you are authorized to work; employers will ask for it within a few days of starting.
Conclusion
Getting a SIN is free and straightforward when your documents are in order. Apply only through Service Canada, keep the number private, and update your record if your immigration status changes.