Getting Your Social Insurance Number (SIN): What to Bring and Where to Go

A Social Insurance Number (SIN) is a 9-digit identifier issued by the Government of Canada that you need to work in Canada and to access many government benefits and programs. The SIN links you to your earnings records for Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and Employment Insurance (EI), and is used for tax and benefit administration. Service Canada administers SINs; they no longer issue plastic cards but provide a confirmation letter (paper or digital) when your application is approved. Your SIN is private and confidential – it is illegal for anyone else to use it, and you must protect it from identity theft. For example, only give your SIN when required by law (for employment, income tax, and certain benefits). The chart below summarizes who needs a SIN and why:

• Citizens : You need a SIN to work or to receive federal and provincial government benefits.

• Permanent residents : You need a SIN once you are authorized to work or access benefits in Canada.

• Temporary workers/students : If you have a work permit or a study permit that allows you to work, you need a SIN to work legally.

• Refugee claimants : Once you have a work permit, you need a SIN to work.

• Protected persons (refugees) : After being granted protected status, you become a permanent resident for SIN purposes and need a SIN to work and for benefits.

Why a SIN matters: Employers use your SIN to report your income for income tax and benefits. Government agencies use it to verify your identity and eligibility for programs (e.g. EI, student loans, pensions). Always treat your SIN like a password – limit who sees it, store it securely, and refuse to provide it when not legally required. (There is no fee to apply for a SIN.)

Eligibility Criteria for Newcomers

If you are arriving in Quebec (or anywhere in Canada) under one of these categories, you are eligible to apply for a SIN:

• Canadian citizens (including naturalized citizens).

• Permanent residents (those with Confirmation of Permanent Residence or a valid PR card).

• Temporary residents with work permits – this includes foreign workers (employer-specific or open work permits) and spouses on an open work permit.

• International students with a study permit that authorizes work – on-campus work, co-op or internships must be explicitly allowed on the permit. (A study permit must say “may accept employment” or “may work”.)

• Refugee claimants who obtain an open work permit – once IRCC approves your work permit under your refugee claim, you may apply for a SIN.

• Refugees and protected persons who have become permanent residents – treat as above for PRs.

• Others with Canadian status – for example, someone born outside Canada with Indian status may apply with special documents (birth certificate and status card).

Who is not eligible: Visitors, tourists or family members without work authorization are not eligible for a SIN. You must have official Canadian status (citizen, PR, or authorized to work) to get a SIN. Also, children under 12 generally do not need a SIN unless they start employment; from age 12 a minor can apply for their own SIN.

In summary, “if you are a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or a temporary resident, you need a SIN to work or receive benefits”. If you become eligible (for example, obtain a work permit or PR), you should apply right away – ideally before or within a few days of starting work. For example, Service Canada advises applying within 3 days of starting a new job. Refugee claimants are encouraged to request their work permit early in the claims process and then apply for their SIN as soon as they receive it.

Documents Required by Status

When you apply, you must submit one primary identity document and one secondary document (plus any supporting documents if your name has changed). All documents must be original (or certified true copies) and in English or French. If not, you need an official translation and an affidavit from the translator. Below are the typical documents required for common newcomer categories:

• Canadian citizens: Provide a primary ID such as a birth certificate (from province/territory of birth) or a Certificate of Canadian Citizenship. These prove your Canadian citizenship. You will also need a secondary ID– for example, a valid Canadian passport or driver’s licence. (All documents must show your full legal name and date of birth.) Note: Quebec proof-of-birth documents issued before 1994 are not accepted.

• Permanent residents: Provide a Permanent Resident (PR) Card or your Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR). (If your COPR is less than one year old, that is acceptable. After a year you will need the PR card.) Older landing documents (Record of Landing or Verification of Landing) can be used only to update or confirm an existing SIN, not for a first-time SIN. You will also bring a secondary ID (passport or provincial ID).

• Temporary workers (work permit holders): Provide your valid Canadian work permit issued by IRCC. (If you are an intra-company transferee or other special status, bring the foreign diplomatic work authorization as applicable.) Also bring a secondary ID (your passport is a good choice). For example, a student with a permit that says “may work” qualifies as a temporary resident and applies with that study permit.

• International students: If your study permit allows you to work in Canada (e.g. on-campus work or co-op), you bring your study permit with work authorization along with your passport. You will also give a secondary ID (passport or province-issued photo ID).

• Refugee claimants: Provide your Refugee Protection Claimant Document (RPCD) or Acknowledgment of Claim and your open work permit. (If you requested the work permit during claim intake, you’ll receive it after security/medical checks.) The RPCD confirms your claim status, and the open work permit authorizes work. You must also provide a secondary ID (for example, your passport or foreign national ID).

• Recognized refugees (protected persons): Once confirmed a protected person, you receive a PR status document. Treat this as a Permanent Resident (PR) case above. In some cases you may get a PR card or COPR to use.

• Children or dependents: If you are 12 or older, you can apply yourself (child’s own SIN). If under 12 or lacking all documents, a parent or guardian applies for you with their supporting documents.

For secondary ID, examples include any valid passport (Canadian or foreign), a provincial/territorial ID card, or driver’s licence. If your legal name has changed (e.g. by marriage), bring supporting documents (marriage certificate, name-change order, etc.) to link old and new names. You do not need to provide extra photo ID like a health card or SIN card (which is no longer issued) – just one primary and one secondary.

Remember: All documents must be in English or French. If they are in another language, you must include the original plus a certified translation and an affidavit from the translator. (Translations by family members are not accepted.)

In summary, for each category use the following:

StatusPrimary IDSecondary IDCanadian citizenBirth certificate or Citizenship CertificatePassport or provincial IDPermanent residentPR Card or COPRPassport or provincial IDTemporary worker (work permit holder)Canadian work permitPassport (or provincial ID)International studentStudy permit (with “may work”)Passport (or provincial ID)Refugee claimant with WPAcknowledgment of Claim / Refugee Protection Claimant Document + work permitPassport or provincial IDName change (any category)Supporting docs (marriage certificate, name-change order, etc.)(links name on other docs)

Each category’s primary document proves your identity and status in Canada. The secondary ID is any valid government-issued photo ID confirming your name and date of birth. Double-check that the names and birthdate on all your documents match; if they differ, Service Canada will use the details as they appear on the primary document.

How to Apply

There are three ways to apply for a SIN: online, in person at a Service Canada Centre, or by mail. Each method has specific steps:

• Apply Online (recommended, if eligible): Go to the Service Canada SIN application portal at sin-nas.canada.ca . You will upload digital scans of your documents. You must create or sign into a My Service Canada Account (MSCA) to view and print your SIN confirmation once it’s processed. The online system guides you through uploading each required document. Important: use the official portal (no fee, and never share your personal info outside the secure site). Service Canada states “you can apply…online, upload your digital documents securely and, if eligible, view and print your SIN on MSCA once your application has been processed”. After submission, if your application is complete, it will be processed in about 5 business days. You’ll receive an email confirmation when your SIN is ready (or a rejection notice if something is wrong). If you qualify for a digital SIN (most applicants do), you can simply log into MSCA and see your SIN; otherwise, a paper confirmation letter will be mailed to you. Applying online is fast and avoids mailing originals; just make sure your scans are clear and all fields are correctly filled.

• Apply in Person: Find your nearest Service Canada Centre in Quebec (see list below). It’s strongly recommendedto make an appointment before going (appointments can be booked through the Service Canada website). To find your local office and hours, call 1-800-O-Canada (1-800-622-6232) or use the Service Canada office locator online. Prepare all your original documents (primary and secondary) and a completed SIN Application Form (Social Insurance Number – Application). You can download the form from canada.ca or pick one up at the office. On arrival, check in and give your documents for verification. Service Canada staff will photocopy and return your originals. If everything is in order, you will receive your SIN immediately before leaving – you do notneed to leave your documents behind. In practice, in-person processing takes minutes once your appointment starts (bring any printouts or application forms to speed it up). The key benefit is same-day service, especially useful if you need a SIN urgently (e.g. to start a job). Office hours are generally weekdays (many centres open ~8:30 am–4:30 pm local time), but always check current hours and closure notices.

• Apply by Mail: If you cannot apply online or in person (for example, you live in a remote area of Quebec with no nearby office), you can mail your application. Mail the SIN Application Form along with original copies of all required documents (photocopies are not accepted) to:

  Service Canada Social Insurance Registration Office P.O. Box 7000 Bathurst, New Brunswick E2A 4T1

  Send your package via secure tracked mail. Service Canada will review it and mail back your original documents when done. By mail, processing takes longer: about 20 business days. (Service Canada advises waiting 25 business days before contacting them.) If approved, your SIN confirmation letter is sent to your address. If something is missing, they will send a letter explaining what is needed. Always keep copies of everything you send (they are not responsible for lost mail).

Summary of steps:

1. Prepare documents (original ID as above).

2. Choose method: (a) apply online at the Service Canada SIN portal, (b) attend a local Service Canada Centre (book ahead), or (c) send by mail to Bathurst.

3. Submit application: online upload, handing in originals in person, or mailing originals.

4. Receive SIN: Online applicants get processed in ~5 business days (letter by mail or view it digitally); in-person applicants get it on the spot; mail applicants get a letter in ~20 business days.

Throughout, remember there is no fee. Use the secure official channels only. You will need to protect your application privacy by closing your browser when done.

Service Canada Centres in Quebec

Service Canada has many offices across Quebec where you can apply in person. The major urban areas include:

• Montréal (Downtown, Guy-Favreau Complex, 200 René-Lévesque Blvd W, 2nd Floor) – (Hours: M–F ~8:30 am–4:00 pm, English/French services).

• Montréal–Côte-des-Neiges (540 Chemin de la Côte-des-Neiges) – (Hours: M–F ~8:30 am–4:00 pm).

• Montréal–Verdun (4110 Wellington St) – (Hours: M–F ~8:30 am–4:00 pm).

• Québec City–Sainte-Foy (3229 Chemin Quatre-Bourgeois, Sainte-Foy) – (Hours: M–F ~8:30 am–4:00 pm).

• Laval–Laval Centre (Laval), Gatineau, Sherbrooke, Longueuil, Trois-Rivières, Saguenay–Chicoutimi – each city has at least one SC centre (hours are generally similar weekdays).

For exact addresses, hours, and language services, use the Service Canada office locator or call 1-800-O-Canada (1-800-622-6232). Most centres offer service in both English and French (you can request either language). They are generally wheelchair-accessible and provide accommodations for clients with disabilities or special needs (you can request an interpreter or alternate format in advance).

Booking appointments: While some centres accept walk-ins, it’s safer to book ahead, especially in busy locations. You can request an appointment on the Service Canada website (the e-Service Canada appointment booking tool). When you arrive for your appointment, check in at reception. If all your documents are ready, you will usually be seen promptly.

Accessibility note: Service Canada offices comply with federal accessibility standards. If you need accommodation (e.g. wheelchair assistance, large-print forms, sign-language interpreter), you can mention it when booking or upon arrival. (For general accommodation requests across federal programs, see [Canada.ca on accessible services][48] or call Service Canada.)

Passport Services Note: Some Service Canada centres (e.g. Guy-Favreau in Montreal, some others in QC) offer passport processing too, but SIN and passport are separate processes. Do not confuse passport kiosks with SIN applications – just tell the agent you need a SIN.

Common Issues and How to Avoid Them

Even a simple SIN application can be delayed if something is wrong. Here are common pitfalls and tips to avoid them:

• Missing or incorrect documents: Make sure to bring all required original documents. Incomplete applications will be rejected. If applying online, upload clear scans of both sides of each document. If mail/in-person, bring originals (photocopies only if specifically allowed, but usually originals are needed). Service Canada will return your documents once processed (if by mail), but they won’t replace lost documents if mis-sent.

• Name or information mismatches: Check that your name and date of birth are spelled the same on all documents and on the application form. Service Canada will record your SIN information exactly as it appears on the primary ID. If you have different names (e.g. married name vs. birth name), bring supporting documents (marriage certificate, legal name-change certificate) to link them. Even small errors (typos) can cause delays or rejections.

• Expired permits or documents: Do not apply if your immigration document (work/study permit) is expired or not yet issued. Wait until your work or study permit is officially valid. (Temporary residents working with an expired SIN: Service Canada allows you to continue working if you’ve applied for a permit extension, but your SIN expiry must eventually match your new permit.) In any case, always use the current, unexpired documents for application.

• Applying too early: For permanent residents, wait until you have your Confirmation of Permanent Residence or PR card. For refugees, apply after your work permit is issued. For students, you need the actual study permit in hand (even if “approved, not yet stamped”).

• Wrong application method: Don’t send documents to the wrong address. Use the Service Canada mailing address (Bathurst) for SIN applications. Scams sometimes circulate fake SIN application sites – always use the official Canada.ca/SIN portal or visit a Service Canada office.

• Delays in receiving your SIN: If you applied online, allow up to 5 business days for processing. If by mail, allow up to 20 business days (and consider 25 days as a safe follow-up time). If you provided an email, you’ll get confirmation emails when processed. If you haven’t heard back after these times, you can contact Service Canada(see “Contact Us” below) to check status. They advise waiting 25 business days before calling for mail applications.

• Lost or damaged SIN confirmation: If you lose your SIN letter or card, you can get a confirmation of your SIN from Service Canada. (They no longer issue plastic cards.) If you simply forgot your number, you can retrieve it on your tax return or via MSCA; if needed you can reapply for a confirmation letter. Importantly, if you suspect your SIN was stolen or misused, do not panic and immediately request a new SIN – Service Canada will only issue a replacement SIN if fraud is proven, and having two SINs can cause more issues. Instead, report suspected fraud (see Protecting Your SIN below).

• Mixing up SIN with other IDs: Your SIN confirmation letter is not an identity document. For proving your identity in other contexts (banking, rentals, healthcare), use your passport, driver’s licence, or other official ID – not your SIN letter. Also, businesses cannot force you to provide your SIN unless it’s legally required (there are few exceptions; one is explained below).

Following these tips will smooth your application. Remember: there is no penalty for refusing to give out your SIN when it is not required by law. In Quebec, note that the only service that may request SIN by law is Hydro-Québec (electric utility); in all other cases like renting, banking, phone/internet, you can politely refuse or offer alternative ID.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When should I apply?
As soon as you have the necessary documents. Ideally apply on or before your first day of work. If arriving as a new immigrant, do it right after landing or receiving your permit. For students, apply once you have your study permit. Applying early ensures you have your SIN in hand before you need it.

Q: How long will it take to get my SIN?

• Online: ~5 business days if all is correct. You will get an email when processed. You can then print your SIN or view it on My Service Canada Account.

• In Person: Immediately. If your documents check out, you will receive your SIN during the office visit.

• By Mail: Up to 20 business days after receipt. If more than 25 business days have passed, call Service Canada to inquire.

Q: Is there a fee to apply for a SIN?
No. Service Canada does not charge for issuing a SIN. Be aware of scams that ask for payment.

Q: How do I protect my SIN?
Keep it confidential. Store your confirmation letter in a safe place (do not carry it in your wallet). Only give your SIN to your employer or to government agencies when required (taxes, benefits). Avoid giving it on job applications, credit cards, or other non-mandatory forms. Shred or destroy any document containing your SIN before disposal. If you ever suspect it has been compromised, follow the fraud steps below.

Q: How will I receive my SIN?
Service Canada will send you a confirmation letter with your SIN (no plastic card). If you applied online and are eligible, your SIN will appear in your My Service Canada Account; you can print it there. Otherwise, look for the mailed letter to the address you provided.

Q: What if I lose my SIN confirmation letter or forget my number?
If you remember your SIN but lost the letter, no action is needed other than being careful (you can always get it from MSCA or on tax records). If you forgot your SIN, check your T4 tax slip or log into My Service Canada Account to view it. You can also apply for a Confirmation of SIN letter by reapplying with original documents.

Q: I changed my name or status. Do I need a new SIN?
Your nine-digit SIN remains the same even if you change your name. However, by law you must update your SIN record when your legal name or immigration status changes. For example, after marriage or a legal name change, submit a SIN update with your marriage certificate or name-change order. If your immigration status changes from temporary to permanent resident or citizen, you may receive a new SIN that does not start with 9, and Service Canada will notify CPP/QPP and CRA. But even then, the numeric SIN itself is replaced.

Q: What if I need to start working before I get my SIN?
You can begin working right after you submit your SIN application – you do not have to wait to physically receive the number. Employers must record your SIN for tax/EI purposes, so give them your number once you have it. In the meantime, you can usually use a letter from Service Canada confirming your application if an employer asks.

Q: Who do I call for help or more information?
If you have questions about your application, call Service Canada at 1-866-274-6627 (toll-free). Agents are available Monday–Friday. For hearing impaired, use TTY 1-800-926-9105. Wait times can vary; the site shows current averages (as of mid-2025, around 30–35 minutes). You can also use the online Contact Us form for Service Canada at Canada.ca. In Quebec, you can call 1-800-O-Canada (1-800-622-6232) for general government information, or visit a local SC office in person with your questions.

Case Examples

The steps above can be confusing in the abstract. Here are real-world scenarios illustrating common SIN applications in Quebec:

• Example 1: International Student – Julie, a 20-year-old from France, has a Master’s study permit for a Quebec university that says “may accept employment.” She has just arranged a part-time job on campus. To get paid legally, Julie applies for a SIN. She brings her passport (showing French citizenship) and her Canadian study permit with the work condition to the Montreal–Côte-des-Neiges Service Canada Centre. The agent checks both documents (and Julie’s Québec health card for secondary ID). In minutes, Julie is given a paper letter with a 9-digit SIN. If she had applied online instead, she could have uploaded scans of her passport and permit to get the SIN without a visit.

• Example 2: Refugee Claimant – Ahmed, a refugee claimant from Syria in Quebec City, received an Acknowledgement of Claim from CBSA and later obtained an open work permit from IRCC. He needs a SIN to start his new job at a local restaurant. Ahmed goes to the Quebec City–Sainte-Foy Service Canada Centre with his Acknowledgement of Claim document (refugee claimant ID) and his open work permit. He also brings his foreign passport and a secondary photo ID (his Lebanese driver’s licence). The clerk verifies his documents and issues Ahmed a temporary SIN starting with 9 which expires when his work permit does. Ahmed’s case shows that refugee claimants use the claim forms plus work permit to apply.

• Example 3: Permanent Resident – Mariana just landed in Montreal from Brazil as a new permanent resident. She has her Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and a Canadian passport in hand. She goes to the Guy-Favreau Service Canada Centre. Since Mariana is a PR, she shows her COPR and passport. Within minutes, she receives her SIN (which does not start with 9, unlike a temporary SIN). If Mariana had used the mail method, she would mail photocopies of COPR and passport to the Bathurst address.

• Example 4: Temporary Worker – Carlos came to Quebec City on a two-year closed work permit for a construction company. He needs a SIN for his payroll. Carlos applies online from home. He scans and uploads a copy of his passport and his Canadian work permit, and waits for processing. Five business days later, he receives an email that his SIN is available in his My Service Canada Account.

• Example 5: Name Change – Sophie, who arrived as a permanent resident, married and legally changed her last name after arrival. She originally got her SIN as Smith, but now goes by Smith-Jones. To update, Sophie submits a SIN correction application with her marriage certificate and her old and new passports. Service Canada updates her record so her SIN (the number itself) remains the same, but the name in the system is now Smith-Jones.

These scenarios illustrate that the exact documents and steps depend on your status, but the process (prepare ID, submit application, receive SIN) is the same for everyone. In all cases, Service Canada’s checklist and staff will guide you through what they need.

SIN Scams and Fraud: What Not to Do

Protecting your SIN goes beyond keeping it safe – you must also avoid scams and misuse. Newcomers should be especially wary of fraud attempts involving SIN. Never disclose your SIN to unsolicited callers or emailers.

Fraudsters have been known to use call spoofing (fake caller ID) to pretend they’re from Service Canada, the Canada Revenue Agency, RCMP or police, claiming your SIN is blocked or involved in crime. For example, some scams say your SIN is tied to a crime or credit card fraud, and then ask you to “verify” it. Remember: No legitimate agency will ever phone you demanding money or urgent action on your SIN. The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre warns: “No government agency will contact you and tell you that your SIN is blocked”. Government representatives will not ask for your SIN over the phone or by email. If you get such a call or email, hang up and report it.

Protect yourself by following these rules:

• Never give your SIN, bank account, passport number, or other personal details in response to an unknown call or email.

• Do not trust caller ID – fraudsters can make it look like a government number. Ask for a case or file number, and independently verify by calling the official number yourself.

• If someone pressures you to withdraw or transfer money (saying it’s a “safe account”), it’s a scam. Real police or government will never send uniformed officers to demand money from your home.

• If you inadvertently gave out your SIN or suspect misuse, immediately act: file a police report (with a case number and officer’s name) and call the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (1-888-495-8501). Also check your credit reports for unknown accounts and notify your financial institutions. Service Canada will only issue a new SIN if you have documented proof of fraud, so focus on alerts and monitoring (new SINs are discouraged unless absolutely needed).

Additionally, follow the guidelines on safe SIN use. Only give your SIN when legally required (employment, taxes, and financial institutions for interest/dividend reporting). Avoid using your SIN in routine ID checks or non-official situations. Keep your SIN letter locked away, and shuffle or redact the number if you must send copies of documents.

By staying informed and cautious, you can avoid SIN fraud. Remember these tips:

• Authentic Service Canada interactions: They will either meet you in person (Service Canada office or passport office, NOT your home) or contact you through official mail. Emails about SIN typically come from “@servicecanada.gc.ca” addresses.

• Never respond to threats or deadlines: Scammers often give a short deadline or threaten arrest. Legitimate agencies do not work that way. If in doubt, call Service Canada’s toll-free number to verify.

• Report fraud attempts: If someone contacts you about your SIN and you think it’s a scam, report it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (1-888-495-8501) and ignore further contact.

Protecting your SIN also means knowing what not to do. For example, do not use your SIN as your daily ID. Your SIN is not your health card number or visa number – it’s strictly for employment and government programs. And never keep your SIN card/letter in your wallet or post it on social media.

Recent (2025) Service Canada Updates

Be aware of the latest updates (as of 2025) to the SIN program:

• Digital SIN Letters: Service Canada fully transitioned to issuing SINs by letter (or electronically) in 2014. Now, approved applicants who sign into My Service Canada Account can download their SIN confirmation letter online. This means you can often obtain proof of SIN immediately, instead of waiting for mailed mail.

• Online Processing: The online SIN application portal is now mature and secure. Official guidance confirms that if you apply online and everything is in order, your application will be processed within 5 business days. This is a service standard updated in 2025. Service Canada encourages uploading digital documents securely to speed up processing.

• No More SIN Cards: Service Canada stopped issuing SIN cards in 2014; as of 2025, you will never get a plastic SIN card. You will only get a paper letter or digital confirmation. If you have an old SIN card from before 2014, it is not valid as a card (though the number itself is still your SIN).

• Processing Times: The 2025 guidelines confirm in-person and online applications are very quick. Online applications take about 5 days if complete. Mailed applications take about 20 business days. Service Canada now states explicitly (June 2025) that if you submit by mail and don’t receive a response after 25 business days, you should contact them.

• COVID and Emergencies: Service Canada offices adjust hours or services during emergencies (e.g. wildfires, health measures). Check Canada.ca or local news for alerts. Despite occasional closures, online SIN services remain available.

Always confirm any processing times or policy changes on the official Canada.ca/SIN pages. The information above reflects current (2025) policy as per Service Canada sources.

What to Do If Something Goes Wrong

If your application is rejected or delayed, Service Canada will send a letter explaining why. Common reasons include missing documents or unclear ID. If that happens:

• Follow instructions: The rejection letter will detail what’s missing (e.g. “need original passport” or “proof of PR”). Gather the requested item and reapply. The government is obligated to tell you how to fix it.

• Contact Service Canada: For online applicants, if you received an email with an issue, you can call Service Canada at 1-866-274-6627 for clarification. For mailed applications beyond 25 days with no response, call the SIN Program to check status.

• Avoid multiple applications: If you applied online and see “processing”, don’t reapply too soon – wait the full 5 business days. For mail, wait 20+ days. Multiple applications can confuse the system.

By being thorough and following guidelines, most newcomers complete the SIN application with no problems. If you stay organized, double-check your documents, and use the official channels, you should get your SIN smoothly.

Key Takeaways

• Apply early: As soon as you’re eligible (working or landed), apply for your SIN.

• Documents: Bring or upload the correct documents for your status (see table above).

• Methods: Online is fast (5 days); in-person gives you SIN immediately; mail takes ~20 days.

• No fees: It’s free.

• Protect your SIN: Keep it safe and only share when required. Never give it to strangers or for scams.

• Service Canada centres: Available throughout Quebec; call 1-800-O-Canada or visit Canada.ca to find one.

• Stay informed: Follow 2025 guidelines on processing times and online services.

By following this guide and using the official resources, newcomers in Quebec can obtain a SIN with confidence and avoid common pitfalls. Welcome to Canada – getting your SIN is one of the first steps to starting work and accessing services here. If you have any doubts, refer to the official Service Canada SIN pages or contact Service Canada directly for help.