Working in Canada - SIN Number

Before you start working in Canada, there are a few requirements you need. First, you need to get your Social Insurance Number or SIN number as we call it. This is the basis of identifying you for tax purposes and for your salary. Without a SIN number, you cannot work in Canada.

To get your SIN Number, you go to the nearest Human Resources and Social Development office or go to their website to get an application.

You will require to show identification before you can apply. Generally you will need to show originals of one of the following documents

• Permanent Resident Card, or
• Confirmation of Permanent Residence AND Visa counterfoil in foreign passport, or
• Confirmation of Permanent Residence AND Visa counterfoil on Single Journey Document for Resettlement in Canada, or
• Confirmation of Permanent Residence AND Visa counterfoil on United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees Travel Document, or
• Confirmation of Permanent Residence AND Visa counterfoil on Red Cross Travel Document

You will also need to show the original or your

• Record of Landing

It usually takes a few weeks to get your SIN Card which looks like this. But they will give you a phone number to call so you can get your SIN Number over the phone earlier while you're waiting for your SIN Card so you can start work earlier.