What Do I Need to Bring?

Reference · Checklists

What documents do you need to apply for a Canadian SIN?

Service Canada asks for evidence of status in Canada and separate identification. The correct primary document depends on whether you are a citizen, permanent resident or temporary resident.

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What Do I Need to Bring? Editorial Team

Build the application in three stepsCanadian Social Insurance Number identity and supporting documents
  1. 01
    Prove your status

    Choose the primary document listed for your status. Source 1

  2. 02
    Prove your identity

    Select a valid secondary document with your name and birth date. Source 1

  3. 03
    Add supporting evidence

    Attach name-change records or translations when required. Source 1

Choose primary and secondary identity evidence first, then add any records linking names or translations.

Source 1 Source 2

Start with the status document

The primary document establishes your status in Canada. A Canadian citizen can use a qualifying Canadian birth or citizenship record. Permanent and temporary residents have separate lists. A temporary resident relying on a study permit or visitor record needs the work authorization specified by Service Canada. Source 1 Source 2

Bring a separate identity document

The secondary document must show your name and birth date and must be valid. Service Canada accepts a Canadian or foreign passport for this purpose, along with specified Canadian government documents. Check the official application tool for the eligible documents for your submission method. Source 1 Source 2

Trace every legal name change

When the current name differs from the primary record, use legal documents that link the two names. If there has been more than one change since the primary document was issued, Service Canada asks for evidence of every change. The type of proof can vary with the circumstances and province. Source 1

Prepare translations and complete copies

Service Canada requires English or French documents, or supporting translation records under its instructions. Online applications use clear digital copies showing the complete original documents. For other submission routes, follow the separate evidence and handling instructions in the application tool. Source 1 Source 2

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Mark the items you have ready

Use the list for your own preparation. Check your appointment instructions for the final requirements.

  • Canadian citizen · Provincial or territorial birth certificate, citizenship certificate or qualifying pre-1977 registration of birth abroad Source 1

  • Permanent resident · Canadian permanent resident card or qualifying Confirmation of Permanent Residence Source 1

  • Temporary resident · Work permit, qualifying study permit or qualifying visitor record with authorization to work Source 1

  • All applicants in scope · Valid Canadian or foreign passport or eligible Canadian government identity document showing name and date of birth Source 1

  • Legal name differs from primary document · A qualifying legal record showing the former and current name Source 1

  • Document is neither English nor French · Supply the original and the translation evidence specified by Service Canada Source 1

  • Online submission · Clear digital copies of the complete original documents Source 2

0 of 7 marked ready

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