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How to apply for SIN Number
Important: You can only apply for your SIN number after you recieve your work permit from Immigration. Do not apply for a SIN number before you are in Canada.
Your Social Insurance Number (SIN) is a 9-digit number that you need to work in Canada. It is a unique number and should not be shared with anyone except your employer. There is no fee to apply for a SIN. You must apply for your SIN as soon as possible. Without your SIN you are unable to get paid by your employer.
If you have had a Canadian SIN before, you will need to reapply. The number will not change, but you will be issued a new expiry date.
If you are flying into Toronto Pearson International Airport, there will be a Service Canada SIN clinic set up just after customs and before baggage claim. It will be open from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM Monday - Friday.
Note: If you arrive in Toronto on Monday - Friday between 6:00 AM and 9:00 PM you cannot leave the airport without obtaining your SIN number.
If you arrive outside of the hours of operation for SIN clinics, you have two options:
- You can apply online (see below)
- Attend one of our Camp Canada SIN clinics (details will be sent to you)
Applying Online
Note: Only for those arriving in Toronto before 6:00 AM and after 9:00 PM, or on a weekend or if you are flying into another city in Canada.
You can apply online here.
You will require the following documents:
- A clear photograph of the photo page of your passport
- A clear photograph of your work permit
- SIN Application Guide (this can be found in the Documents section of your account)
- For the ‘telephone number’ and ‘address’ fields, you should use your camp’s phone number & address. Please use the one indicated on your SIN Application Guide.
- For the questions regarding Status, you are a ‘temporary resident’
If you apply for a SIN online or by mail and your application meets the requirements, you will receive a letter with your SIN by mail within 20 business days from the date the application is received.
If more than 25 business days have passed and you would like to find out the status of your application, you can contact the SIN office here.
What if I'm not flying into Toronto?
If you are flying into Montreal, we are working on setting up SIN clinics for you. We will provide more information as it becomes available. If you are flying into another city, you will be applying for your SIN online as indicated above. If you require assistance, please reach out to arrivals@campcanada.ca.