A Social Insurance Number (SIN) is a 9 digit number that you need in order to work in Canada or to have access to government programs and benefits. You will need a SIN if you want to file an income tax return in Canada.
You can get a SIN by applying online or by mail. You will need the documents listed in the Booking and Documentation section below to apply. If you have permission to work in Canada but are currently outside of Canada, the SIN can be mailed to your country of residence if your proof of address is accepted and all requirements are met.
If you are unable to apply online or by mail, you have the option to apply in person at certain Service Canada Centres.
At certain times of the year, you can also apply on campus at the Centre for International Experience. If SIN clinics are running, click on a date under Booking & Documentation to register on CLNx and select an appointment time.
Once you have your Social Insurance Number, you must update your profile on ACORN. The University of Toronto will request your Social Insurance Number on ACORN to include it on the tax forms they issue. If you are not eligible for a SIN, you may apply for an Individual Tax Number (ITN).
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Service Eligibility
International undergraduate or graduate students with a study permit (that includes specific statements about eligibility to work) or a work permit are eligible to apply for a SIN.
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Service Fees
There is no fee for getting your SIN and in most cases the SIN will be given to you when you apply for it.
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Booking & Documentation
There are no upcoming SIN clinics on campus.
You can learn more about how Service Canada is issuing SINs online at the following webinar:
Study permit holders
To get a SIN using your study permit, it must include one of the following statements:
- May accept employment on the campus of the institution at which registered in full-time studies.
- May work 20 hours per week off campus or full time during regular breaks if meeting criteria outlined in section 186(v) of IRPR.
- May accept employment on or off campus if meeting eligibility criteria as per R186(f), (v) or (w). Must cease working if no longer meeting these criteria.
If your study permit does not have any of the above-mentioned statements, you need to apply for an amendment to your study permit before you can apply for a SIN.
If your study permit has the above-mentioned statements, you will need the following documents to apply for your SIN:
- passport
- study permit
- proof of address
Work permit holders
If you hold a co-op or post-graduation work permit you will need the following documents to get your new SIN or update your current SIN:
- passport
- co-op/post-graduation work permit
- proof of address
Your SIN will expire at the same time as your study permit or work permit. If you would like to renew your SIN, you will need the same documents as you did for the initial application.