Celebrating the 12th edition of the Quebec Immigration and Integration Fair, Service Canada is offering visitors the opportunity to apply for a Social Security Number (SIN). Let’s take a look at the paperwork you’ll need!

Obtaining a Social Security Number (SIN) is part of the process for a newcomer’s first few days, whether he or she comes to the country on permanent or temporary resident status. This unique 9-digit identifier is required to work in Canada and receive government benefits and services, including employment insurance and the Canada Pension Plan – or simply to open a bank account.

When should I apply for a SIN?

Several scenarios can lead you to apply for a SIN:

• Get your first NAS
• Receive confirmation of your SIN
• Fix an error in your NAS folder
• Update your file after a legal name change
• Update your citizenship status in your SIN file
• Update your immigration document expiry date in your SIN file
• Delete your hard drive number from your NAS folder

What documents do I need for the application?

You will be asked to provide several valid documents to prove your identity and immigration status in Canada, including:

• A key piece of identification: an IRCC-issued work or study permit, permanent resident card, Canadian citizenship certificate, etc.
• A secondary identification document: a passport, a document issued by a Canadian province or territory that shows your legal name and date of birth (driver’s license, health insurance card, etc.)
• A French or English translation of your documents and a signed certificate from the translator if your documents are in a foreign language.

Please note: For applications that are submitted in person, the submission of original documents and not copies is required. They will be returned to you promptly.

A SIN request is free of charge.

If you are on a temporary basis, the validity of your SIN depends on that of your status. Each time your status is renewed, you must renew your SIN until you receive permanent residency. At this point, the first digit of 9, reserved for temporary workers, changes to number 3.

For more information on NAS, see Visit the Government of Canada website.

To join the show, Register for free on Eventbrite.

Find Service Canada at Booth 406 from Quebec Immigration and Integration Fair, which will take place on May 31 and June 1, 2023 at the Palais des congrès de Montréal. Good visit!

Around Basil Moratilla

Content and Publications Director, Immigrant Québec and Immigrant Québec Pro.

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