Text : Francisco Salazar
The Social Insurance Number (SIN) is an essential identifier for anyone working in Canada, including Temporary Foreign Workers (TFWs). Without a valid SIN, no one is permitted to be employed or receive a salary. Therefore, it is crucial that you apply for a SIN or, if you already have one but it has expired, request a renewal.
This article aims to inform you about the different options available to obtain your SIN quickly, conveniently, and efficiently.
Documents Required for a SIN Application
Make sure to provide:
- A closed work permit or a visa indicating your authorization to work in Canada.
- A passport or a provincial ID card.
Options for Obtaining Your SIN
To make the process easier, Service Canada offers several options:
1. Online Application
The online application is the fastest and most convenient method. This option offers several advantages, such as:
- Avoiding waiting times at a Service Canada Centre.
- Uploading your documents directly onto the portal.
- Checking the status of your application via My Service Canada Account (MSCA)
2. Application at the Airport
If you have all the required documents, you can apply for your SIN upon your arrival in Quebec at Montreal-Trudeau Airport (YUL). A SIN clinic is located on the basement level (SS2).
- Hours: Monday to Friday, from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM.
3. SIN at Your Workplace
Service Canada offers mobile clinics that can be arranged directly at your workplace, simplifying the process for many TFWs simultaneously. It is the employer’s responsibility to submit the service request. For more information, please visit the Service Canada Community Outreach and Liaison Service – Canada.ca or ask your employer to submit a service request.
4. Application at a Service Canada Office
If you prefer face-to-face assistance, you can visit a Service Canada Office with the required documents. Before you go, schedule an appointment by completing the online service request form.
5. Application by Mail
You can also apply for a SIN by mail by sending the completed form along with the original documents. However, please note that this option takes longer and is not recommended if you need your SIN quickly.
Virtual Information Sessions
Service Canada offers online information sessions to help employers and TFWs understand the SIN application process. These sessions are available in both French and English on various dates.
| Date | Time | Language | Teams Link |
| Thursday, February 27, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM | French | Join the information session now |
| Thursday, March 13, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM | English | Join the information session now |
| Thursday, March 27, 2025 | 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM | French | Join the information session now |
| Thursday, April 24, 2025 | 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM | French | Join the information session now |
| Thursday, May 15, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM | English | Join the information session now |
| Thursday, May 29, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM | French | Join the information session now |
| Thursday, June 19, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM | French | Join the information session now |
Obtaining a SIN is Your Responsibility!
It is your responsibility to submit a SIN application. However, your employer or a third party can play an essential role in assisting you with this administrative process.
Additional Resources
- Information à l’intention des employeurs – Numéro d’assurance sociale (NAS) – Canada.ca : Employer information – Social Insurance Number (SIN) – Canada.ca:
This resource helps your employer understand the responsibilities and obligations associated with the SIN. - Protégez votre NAS : Conseils pour sécuriser votre NAS et éviter la fraude.
- Travailleurs étrangers temporaires – Vos droits sont protégés : Au Canada, la législation protège tous les travailleurs, y compris les Travailleurs Étrangers Temporaires. En tant que TET, vous bénéficiez des mêmes droits et garanties que les citoyens et les résidents permanents.
Assistance
Si vous avez besoin d’un soutien supplémentaire concernant le NAS, vous pouvez :
- Communiquer avec le programme du NAS pour obtenir des réponses à des questions générales ou des renseignements sur l’état de votre demande.
- Remplir le formulaire de demande de service en ligne– Pour recevoir de l’aide concernant la soumission de votre demande de NAS, les documents nécessaires ou tout autre renseignement.
En suivant ces recommandations, les travailleurs étrangers temporaires et leurs employeurs peuvent s’assurer que l’obtention du NAS se déroule de manière fluide et efficace, vous facilitant ainsi une intégration rapide au marché du travail canadien.
