The Social Insurance Number (SIN) is a nine-digit identifier essential for working in Canada, accessing government benefits, filing taxes, and more. If you’re applying for a SIN for the first time whether as a new resident, citizen, or temporary worker understanding the process ensures a smooth start. As of October 31, 2025, applications can be submitted online, by mail, or in person, depending on your situation. At worldbridge, we support international students and immigrants with settlement services, including guidance on essential documents like the SIN to help you thrive in Canada. Here’s everything you need to know to apply for a new SIN.
Eligibility for a New SIN
You qualify for a new SIN if you’re applying for the first time and meet one of these categories:
- Canadian citizen (including those born in Canada or naturalized).
- Permanent resident.
- Temporary resident with a valid work or study permit (SINs for these start with ‘9’ and have an expiry date).
- Individual registered under the Indian Act (born outside Canada).
- Other protected persons, such as convention refugees.
Children 12 and older can apply independently, while those under the age of majority in their province/territory may need a parent or legal guardian to apply on their behalf. If you’re outside Canada with no legal status but eligible for certain benefits, you may also qualify. Use the official tool on canada.ca to confirm your eligibility based on your status.
Special 2025 note: If your temporary SIN (starting with ‘9’) has expired but you’ve applied to renew your work/study permit, you may continue working until you receive the new permit. An IRCC approval email dated on or after September 11, 2025, can be used for online SIN applications if you’re in Canada and awaiting the physical document.
Required Documents
Documents vary by your status (e.g., citizen, permanent resident) and application method. Always bring originals—no photocopies. Common requirements include:
- Proof of identity (e.g., passport, birth certificate).
- Proof of legal status in Canada (e.g., citizenship certificate, permanent resident card, work/study permit, or IRCC approval email for temporaries).
- For Indian Act registrants: Certificate of Indian Status.
If applying for a child or deceased person, additional docs like guardianship papers or death certificates may be needed. Use the online tool at canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/services/sin/apply.html to get a personalized list. There’s no application fee.
Methods to Apply
Choose based on your situation online is often the fastest for those in Canada.
- Online: Available for most new applicants in Canada. Visit sin-nas.canada.ca/en/sin/ to start. You’ll need to create a profile, upload documents, and submit. Ideal for citizens, permanents, and temporaries with IRCC approvals. Processing is quick—often immediate confirmation.
- By Mail: For those unable to apply online or in person (e.g., outside Canada). Download Form NAS-2120 from catalogue.servicecanada.gc.ca, complete it, and mail with documents to: Service Canada, Social Insurance Registration Office, PO Box 7000, Bathurst NB E2A 4T1. Expect 20-30 business days for processing.
- In Person: Visit a Service Canada Centre (find locations at servicecanada.gc.ca). Recommended if you need immediate assistance or have complex cases. Book an appointment online if possible, or walk in. You’ll receive your SIN on the spot if documents are in order.
For newborns, hospitals or midwives often handle the application via the Newborn Registration Service—no separate action needed.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Determine Your Method and Documents: Use the interactive tool on canada.ca to select your status (e.g., applying for yourself or a minor) and preferred method. This generates a customized checklist.
- Gather and Prepare: Collect all originals. For online/mail, scan or photocopy as backups, but submit originals where required.
- Submit Your Application:
- Online: Log in or create an account at sin-nas.canada.ca, fill out details, upload docs, and submit. Note: You can’t edit after submission if there’s an error, start over.
- Mail: Send the completed form and docs to the address above.
- In Person: Bring everything to a centre; staff will verify and issue if approved.
- Receive Your SIN: Online/in-person approvals are often instant; mail takes longer. You’ll get a Confirmation of SIN letter (no plastic cards issued since 2014). Protect your SIN—don’t carry it; memorize or store securely.
If applying to update an existing SIN (e.g., name change, status update), follow similar steps but select “update” in the tool.
Tips and Common Pitfalls
- Security: Never share your SIN unnecessarily; protect against identity theft.
- Temporary Residents: Update your SIN expiry when renewing permits to avoid work disruptions.
- Lost/Stolen SIN: Report immediately to Service Canada at 1-866-274-6627; you don’t need a new one—just a confirmation letter.
- Processing Times: Online/in-person: Immediate to a few days; mail: Up to 30 days. No major delays reported in 2025.
- Help: Call 1-800-622-6232 or visit a centre for assistance.
Applying for a SIN is a key step in settling in Canada, opening doors to employment and services. If you’re an international student or immigrant, worldbridge can help with related processes like study permits and settlement. For personalized advice, contact us . Start your application today at canada.ca!
Let Worldbridge Immigration Services be your guide to a successful future in Canada
Contact us:
Website: www.theworldbridge.ca
Email: info@theworldbridge.ca
Phone/WhatsApp: +1-416-727-7766
Social media: @worldbridgeHQ
