Social Insurance Number (SIN)
A social insurance number (SIN) is how the government of Canada identifies you for income tax.
What is a SIN?
A social insurance number (SIN) is a nine-digit number issued by Service Canada. Your SIN allows you to work, access government programs and legally get paid in Canada.
Important: Your SIN is highly confidential information and should be kept in a safe place. If it falls into the wrong hands, you could become a victim of identity fraud.
Only the following entities can legally ask you for your SIN:
- Your employer
- Your accountant
- Financial institutions
- Federal and provincial governments.
Want to work in Canada? You need a SIN
Before you apply for a SIN: check your study permit.
Your study permit must have one of the following conditions or remarks printed on it in order to apply for a SIN for on- and/or off-campus work:
- May accept employment on the campus of the institution at which registered in full-time studies
- May work 24 hours off-campus per week or full time during regular breaks if meeting criteria outlined in section 186(v) or IRPR.
Important: If your Study Permit does not include one or both statements you must request an amendment to your Study Permit.
Prepare and apply for your SIN
Key details
- You can apply for your SIN by mail, in-person, or online
- Have your required documents ready
- There is no fee to apply for a SIN.
