Your Social Insurance Number is a private identifier used for work, income tax and certain government programs. It is not everyday identification.
Apply through Service Canada
Check the official document requirements before applying. Depending on your status, you may need a permanent resident document, work permit, study permit that allows work or another accepted primary document. Applications can be made online, by mail or in person.
There is no fee to apply for a SIN. Do not pay a website or consultant simply to submit the application.
When someone can ask for your SIN
An employer needs it after hiring you. Financial institutions may need it for accounts that pay interest. Government programs may need it to identify your tax or benefit record.
A landlord, ordinary credit-card application or mobile-phone seller generally does not need your SIN as routine identification. Ask why it is required, how it will be stored and whether another document can be used.
Build a document folder
Keep these categories separate:
- immigration and citizenship documents
- identity and civil-status records
- education and credential records
- health and vaccination records
- tax, benefit and employment records
- housing agreements and payment receipts
Store originals in a secure place. Keep encrypted copies and record expiry dates. Do not send a complete identity package by ordinary email unless you have verified the recipient and understand why each document is needed.
If a document is lost or exposed
Contact the issuing organization. If your SIN may have been used fraudulently, follow Service Canada’s protection guidance and monitor your credit reports. Keep notes of who you contacted and when.