Government of Canada

Who can apply for a SIN?

If you are a Canadian citizen, a newcomer to Canada or a temporary resident, you need a Social Insurance Number (SIN) to work in Canada or to receive benefits and services from government programs.

Each SIN is issued to one person only. It cannot legally be used by anyone else. You are responsible for protecting your SIN. Store your SIN card in a safe place. Don’t keep it with you.

For more information on how to protect your SIN, please see our publication, Your Social Insurance Number: A Shared Responsibility.