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Federal service · Identity and documents

SIN number: apply for a Social Insurance Number

Compiled by Mahmoud Halat, checked

Short answer

You need a SIN to work in Canada and to get government benefits. Apply online, by mail or at a Service Canada office; it is free.

Who handles it

Service Canada (Employment and Social Development Canada)

Handles it everywhere in Canada.

Canada Service Map is independent and not a government website. The official page always has the final word.

Who can apply

  • A SIN is a 9-digit number you need to work in Canada or to get government programs and benefits.

    Source: canada.cachecked #

  • Anyone 12 or older can apply for their own SIN. A parent or legal guardian can apply for a child under the age of majority, and a legal guardian or representative can apply for an adult in their care.

    Source: canada.cachecked #

What you need

  • Canadian citizens give one primary identity document, such as a birth certificate from the province or territory of birth or a citizenship certificate. Permanent residents give a PR card or Confirmation of Permanent Residence.

    Source: canada.cachecked #

  • Temporary residents give a work permit, or a study permit that says the holder may work in Canada.

    Source: canada.cachecked #

Cost

  • Applying for a SIN is free.

    Source: canada.cachecked #

Where to go

  • You can apply in person at a Service Canada Centre. If your documents are in order, you get your SIN during the visit and keep your documents.

    Source: canada.cachecked #

  • Mailed applications go to Service Canada's Social Insurance Registration Office, PO Box 7000, Bathurst NB E2A 4T1. Your documents are mailed back once the application is complete.

    Source: canada.cachecked #

Good to know

  • Service Canada no longer issues plastic SIN cards. If you already know your SIN, you can view and print it in My Service Canada Account instead of applying.

    Source: canada.cachecked #

Questions people ask

How much does a SIN cost?

Nothing. There is no fee to apply for a Social Insurance Number.

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I lost my SIN. How do I find it?

If you know your SIN, you do not need to apply again. Sign in to My Service Canada Account, or register for it, to view and print your SIN.

Source: canada.cachecked #

Do I still get a SIN card?

No. Service Canada no longer issues plastic SIN cards. If you know your number, you can view and print it in My Service Canada Account.

Source: canada.cachecked #

What does it mean if my SIN starts with 9?

It is a temporary SIN with an expiry date. When you get a new immigration document, apply to extend the SIN so its expiry date matches the document.

Source: canada.cachecked #

When should I contact Service Canada if my SIN has not arrived?

Contact the SIN Program if more than 10 business days have passed since you applied online, or more than 25 business days since you applied by mail.

Source: canada.cachecked #

Where to go in person

Places in the biggest cities, from open data. Check the official link for hours and what each office offers before you go.

Cite this page

Canada Service Map, "SIN number: apply for a Social Insurance Number", checked 13 October 2026, https://canadaservicemap.ca/services/sin