Getting A Social Insurance Number In New Brunswick

If you're moving to Canada, one of your top priorities should be getting a Social Insurance Number (SIN). This nine-digit number is required for employment and accessing government services and benefits. You can apply for a SIN online, by mail, or in person at a Service Canada Centre. The process is free and can take up to a month to complete. To apply, you'll need valid identification documents, such as a birth certificate or passport, and proof of a Canadian address. You must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or temporary resident and at least 12 years old to apply.

Applying for a SIN online

To apply online, the applicant must visit the official Government of Canada webpage. Here, they will need to enter their application type, which in this case, is a Social Insurance Number. The applicant will then be required to enter their personal details, including their name, family name, date of birth, telephone number, country, and address. It is important to note that the applicant must provide accurate information and protect their personal information while filling out the application.

After entering the required personal details, the applicant will be directed to another page where they will need to upload clear, digital copies of the required documents. These documents must be digital copies of original documents and must be clear, legible, and complete, showing the entire document, including borders. The documents must also be in English or French. If the documents are in another language, translation requirements will need to be met.

For permanent residents, the required document is a Permanent Resident Card from IRCC or CIC. If the permanent residence application was processed in Canada, this is the only acceptable document. Alternatively, the applicant can provide a Confirmation of Permanent Residence along with a visa counterfoil affixed to their foreign passport or travel document.

Temporary residents must provide one of the following documents: a work permit, a study permit indicating that the holder "may accept employment" or "may work" in Canada, a visitor record showing authorization to work in Canada, or a diplomatic identity card with a work authorization issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development.

Once all the required information and documents have been submitted, the applicant will need to certify that the information provided is complete and accurate. The application will then be sent to the concerned authorities for review. If the application is accepted, the applicant will receive their SIN.

Applying for a SIN by mail

Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility

Before initiating the application process, ensure that you are eligible to apply for a SIN by mail. This option is typically available to individuals residing in remote or inaccessible areas who cannot easily access a Service Canada Centre.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

To apply for a SIN, you must provide certain documents as proof of your identity. The specific documents required will depend on your situation, such as whether you are a permanent resident, temporary resident, or minor. Here are some commonly accepted documents:

• Birth certificate issued by the vital statistics agency in the province or territory of birth
• Certificate of Canadian Citizenship
• Permanent Resident card
• Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR)
• Work permit
• Study permit
• Visitor record
• Passport
• Provincial or territorial ID card
• Government-issued identification

Step 3: Complete the Application Form

You can download the SIN application form online or order it by phone. Fill out the form, providing all the necessary details, such as your name, date of birth, and other relevant information.

Step 4: Prepare Your Documents

Ensure that your documents are in the accepted format. All documents must be digital copies of the original documents and must be clear, legible, and complete. Documents should be in English or French. If your documents are in another language, you may need to provide translations.

Step 5: Submit Your Application by Mail

Once you have completed the application form and gathered your documents, mail them to the following address:

Social Insurance Registration Office

P.O. Box 7000

Bathurst, NB

E2A 4T1

Canada

It is important to note that Service Canada is not responsible for documents lost in the mail, so consider using a secure mailing method.

Step 6: Wait for Processing and Confirmation

If your application and documents are in order, you will typically receive your confirmation of SIN letter in the mail within 20 business days. The processing time may vary, so it is advisable to allow sufficient time for your application to be processed.

Applying for a SIN in person

To apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN) in person, you must visit your nearest Service Canada Centre. You can find the nearest centre on the Service Canada website.

Before you go, you should gather the documents you need and fill in the application form. You can download the application form using the link provided on the Wikiprocedure website. You will need to enter details such as your name, family name, date of birth, telephone number, country, and address. You will also need to provide one of the following primary identity documents:

• Birth certificate issued by the vital statistics agency in the province or territory of birth
• Certificate of Canadian Citizenship issued by IRCC or CIC
• Certificate of Registration of Birth Abroad issued by CIC before 1977
• Permanent Resident card issued by IRCC or CIC
• Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) issued by IRCC
• Record of Landing issued by CIC before June 28, 2002

If you are a temporary resident, you will need to provide one of the following:

• Work permit from CIC
• Study permit from CIC
• Visitor record from CIC indicating that you are authorized to work in Canada
• Diplomatic identity card and a note of permission of employment issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade

When you attend your appointment, you will need to bring the original copies of your documents and application form. The Service Canada agent will review your application, and if everything is in order, you will receive your SIN during your visit. There is no fee for applying for a SIN.

Required documents for a SIN

To obtain a Social Insurance Number (SIN) in New Brunswick, you must submit specific documents as part of the application process. The requirements may vary depending on your status in Canada, such as permanent or temporary residency. Here is a detailed guide to the required documents for obtaining a SIN:

Primary Identity Document:

This is an official document that proves your identity and status in Canada. You must provide one of the following:

• Birth certificate issued by the vital statistics agency in the province or territory of birth.
• Certificate of Canadian Citizenship issued by IRCC or CIC.
• Certificate of Registration of Birth Abroad issued by CIC before 1977.
• Permanent Resident card issued by IRCC or CIC.
• Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) issued by IRCC.
• Record of Landing issued by CIC before June 28, 2002.
• Verification of Landing or Status Verification issued by IRCC or CIC (only for making changes to an existing SIN).
• Work permit, study permit, or visitor record issued by IRCC or CIC, indicating authorization to work in Canada.
• Diplomatic identity card and work authorization issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development.

Additional Documents for Individuals Born Outside Canada:

If you were born outside Canada and are registered under the Indian Act, you must provide:

• A birth certificate issued by a state authority from your country of birth.
• A Certificate of Indian Status issued by Indigenous Services Canada.

Documents for Individuals with No Legal Status in Canada:

If you live outside Canada with no legal status but qualify for Canadian government benefits or pensions, you must provide:

• A birth certificate issued by a state authority from your country of birth.
• A statement of contribution or letter confirming eligibility for pension or benefits from the Canada Pension Plan, Old Age Security, or Régime des rentes du Québec.

Secondary and Supporting Documents:

A secondary document is issued by the Canadian government or is a foreign passport, confirming your identity. A supporting document is required if the name on any provided document differs from the name on the SIN application. Examples include:

• Canadian or foreign passport.
• Canadian provincial or territorial ID card or driver's license.
• Any other Canadian government-issued ID.
• Marriage certificate, record of solemnization of marriage, or marriage statement.
• Divorce decree, certificate of divorce, or court order.
• Legal change of name certificate.
• Adoption order certified by a Canadian court.
• Notarial certificate or notarial adoption certificate issued by the country of origin for an adopted child.

It's important to note that all documents must be original copies and presented in person or by mail. If applying online, clear digital copies in English or French are accepted. Translations and attestations may be required for documents in other languages.

Why you need a SIN

The Social Insurance Number (SIN) is a crucial piece of identification for anyone living and working in Canada. It is a unique nine-digit number assigned by the Canadian government to individuals. This number is essential for working, receiving payments, and accessing government benefits and programs. The SIN is mandatory for all Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and temporary residents who work or study in Canada.

• Work and Income: A SIN is required to work in Canada and receive income. This includes employment, as well as specific educational programs and internships. It is also necessary for receiving payments, such as government benefits, pensions, or salaries.
• Government Programs and Benefits: The SIN allows access to various government programs and benefits, including social services, healthcare, and financial assistance. This is especially important for individuals who may need support from the government, such as seniors, students, or those facing financial difficulties.
• Financial Transactions: A SIN is essential for several financial transactions, including filing taxes, opening a bank account, obtaining a credit card or loan, and applying for financial services. Most financial institutions require a SIN for identity verification and to comply with regulatory requirements.
• Personal Identification: While not a primary form of identification, a SIN can be used as supporting identification. It helps verify your identity when combined with other documents, such as a driver's license or passport.
• Education: International students intending to work or register for specific educational programs in Canada must obtain a SIN. This includes enrolling in certain courses or programs and accessing related benefits and services.
• Compliance and Record-Keeping: The SIN aids the government in maintaining accurate records and ensuring compliance with tax and employment regulations. It helps track employment history, income, and contributions to pension plans or benefit programs.

It is important to note that a SIN is confidential and should be safeguarded. It is illegal for anyone else to use your SIN, and it is your responsibility to protect it. To apply for a SIN in Canada, individuals need to provide valid documents proving their identity and status in the country. This can be done online or in person at a Service Canada Centre.

Frequently asked questions