Protect Yourself: The Importance of Your Social Insurance Number (SIN)

As an international student seeking employment in Canada, you must obtain a social insurance number (SIN) for tax purposes. The SIN that international students receive commences with the numeral "9." You will be expected to disclose this number to your prospective employer, and in certain circumstances, while registering with specific service providers like Hydro-Québec. Additionally, research-based program students receiving financial assistance from their supervisor must provide it to Polytechnique to get compensated. While sharing your SIN, it is vital to maintain confidentiality and share it strictly when needed.

Your social insurance number is valid until your study permit expires. Therefore, if you require renewal of your study permit to continue with studies, you also must renew the SIN after acquiring the new study permit.

For more information about social insurance numbers, please visit the Government of Canada website or visit a Service Canada office in person.

APPLYING FOR YOUR SIN NUMBER

Three methods are available to apply for SIN - apply online, by mail, or in person at a Service Canada office. You must be in Canada to get this number.

The following are the documents required for the application:

• - A study permit indicating authorized on and off-campus work permit or work permit (for co-op work)
• - Passport
• If you face an issue with obtaining a SIN number, please refer to this document.
• For a more detailed explanation of how to apply for a SIN, use the link here.

STUDY PERMIT RENEWALS OR TRANSITION TO WORKER STATUS

If you are renewing your study permit or a graduand, as soon as you receive your post-graduation work permit (PGWP) or new SP, request a SIN extension. Your SIN number remains the same, and you are authorized to work or commence a new job while waiting for an extension.

If your SIN expires while in the process of employment, and you haven't renewed it yet, direct your employer to the Government of Canada's "implied status" explanation.