Your Social Insurance Number (SIN)

You need a SIN to work and get paid in Canada — how to get one, and what a temporary (900-series) SIN means.

Key points to understand

Apply for a SIN as soon as you're eligible to work

Apply for a SIN as soon as you're eligible to work. In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.

Temporary residents get a 900-series SIN tied to your permit

Temporary residents get a 900-series SIN tied to your permit. In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.

Never share your SIN except with employers, banks and the CRA

Never share your SIN except with employers, banks and the CRA. In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.

Practical tips

• Prepare your documents and translations in advance — most delays come from missing paperwork.
• Always note the office name, address, and a contact number before you go.
• Ask the community on MyHAbroad if you’re unsure — chances are someone has already been through it.