What does a SIN starting with 9 mean?

It identifies the holder as a temporary resident authorized to work. This SIN is tied to the expiry date of the underlying work or study permit and needs updating if that permit changes.

Do I need a SIN to open a bank account?

Not always, but many financial products, employment income and government benefits require one, so newcomers typically apply for a SIN early after arrival.

Is there a fee for a SIN application?

No. Applying for a Social Insurance Number through Service Canada does not carry a fee.

What happens if my permit is extended?

The 9-series SIN linked to the old permit's expiry date needs to be updated with Service Canada once a new or extended permit is issued, to avoid an interruption for employment purposes.

Getting a Social Insurance Number in Canada

Last updated August 3, 2026 · Reviewed by Settlement Editor · Review cadence 90 days

Quick answer

A Social Insurance Number (SIN) is a nine-digit number issued by Service Canada that is required to work in Canada or access government programs. Temporary residents receive a SIN beginning with the number 9, which is tied to the expiry date of their work or study permit and must be renewed if that permit is extended.

Key takeaways

Service Canada issues the SIN, not IRCC, though eligibility depends on immigration status.
Permanent residents and citizens receive a standard SIN with no built-in expiry.
Temporary residents receive a 9-series SIN linked to their permit's validity period.
A 9-series SIN stops being valid when the underlying permit expires, unless renewed.
A SIN is required before starting most paid employment in Canada.
SIN applications can generally be completed online, by mail or in person.
Protecting a SIN from misuse is important, as it is linked to tax and benefit records.

Overview

The Social Insurance Number is a federal identifier used for employment, taxes and government benefits. It is administered by Service Canada, a distinct department from IRCC, though who qualifies for a SIN and what type they receive depends directly on the immigration status IRCC has granted.

How the SIN System Works

Permanent residents and Canadian citizens receive a standard SIN. Temporary residents authorized to work, such as work permit holders and some study permit holders eligible to work off-campus, receive a SIN beginning with the digit 9. This 9-series SIN carries an expiry date matching the individual's permit, and it becomes invalid once that permit expires unless the holder obtains a new or extended permit and updates their SIN record accordingly.

Standard SIN: issued to citizens and permanent residents, no expiry tied to status.
9-series SIN: issued to eligible temporary residents, expiry matches permit validity.
Employers may ask to see the SIN document to confirm work eligibility.

Steps to Apply

Confirm eligibility based on current immigration status and permit conditions.
Gather the required identity and status documents, such as a permit and passport.
Apply online through the Service Canada SIN portal, by mail, or in person at a Service Canada Centre.
Record the SIN securely; a physical card is generally no longer issued.
Update the SIN record if a permit is renewed or immigration status changes.

Costs and Timing

There is no fee to apply for a SIN. Processing time can vary depending on the application channel used and whether documents need verification, so applicants should apply as early as possible after confirming eligibility rather than waiting until a job offer requires it.

Common Mistakes

Assuming a 9-series SIN remains valid after the linked permit expires.
Sharing the SIN unnecessarily, which increases the risk of identity misuse.
Forgetting to update the SIN record after a permit extension or status change.
Delaying the application until an employer specifically requests it.

Frequently asked questions

What does a SIN starting with 9 mean?: It identifies the holder as a temporary resident authorized to work. This SIN is tied to the expiry date of the underlying work or study permit and needs updating if that permit changes.
Do I need a SIN to open a bank account?: Not always, but many financial products, employment income and government benefits require one, so newcomers typically apply for a SIN early after arrival.
Is there a fee for a SIN application?: No. Applying for a Social Insurance Number through Service Canada does not carry a fee.
What happens if my permit is extended?: The 9-series SIN linked to the old permit's expiry date needs to be updated with Service Canada once a new or extended permit is issued, to avoid an interruption for employment purposes.

Official sources

Apply for a Social Insurance Number - Canada.ca

This guide is general information, not legal advice. Government requirements change. Confirm details against the official sources above, and read our editorial standards.