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What is a Social Insurance Number (SIN)?

A Social Insurance Number, commonly known as a SIN, is a unique identifier issued to each individual in Canada. The SIN is essential for:

  • Working in Canada: Employers require your SIN to process payroll and ensure tax withholdings are accurate.

  • Accessing Government Benefits: Programs like Employment Insurance (EI), Canada Pension Plan (CPP), and other federal benefits require a SIN.

  • Filing Taxes: Your SIN links you to your tax records, ensuring that income, tax deductions, and credits are correctly processed.

Since it connects directly to personal financial and employment information, it's important to keep your SIN secure and avoid sharing it unnecessarily.

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SIN for Temporary and Permanent Residents

When applying for a Social Insurance Number (SIN) in Canada, there are some key differences between the SIN issued to temporary and permanent residents. Here’s a breakdown:

 

1. Social Insurance Number for Temporary Residents

  • Who Needs It? Temporary residents include individuals on a work permit or study permit who have been authorized to work in Canada.    

  • SIN Starts with ‘9’: SINs for temporary residents begin with the digit ‘9’. This helps to identify that the holder’s employment authorization in Canada is temporary.

  • Validity Period: The SIN issued to temporary residents is valid for the duration of their permit (work or study permit). For example, if your work permit is valid for two years, your SIN will also expire in two years. Temporary SIN holders must renew their SIN upon extending or renewing their permit.

  • Document Requirements: Temporary residents need to provide a valid work or study permit showing authorization to work in Canada as their primary document.

Temporary SIN (Starts with ‘9’): For temporary residents, valid only for the duration of the work or study permit.

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2. Social Insurance Number for Permanent Residents

  • Who Needs It? Individuals who have obtained permanent resident (PR) status in Canada. This includes immigrants who have received a PR card, confirming their right to live and work in Canada indefinitely.  

  • SIN Number Format: Unlike SINs for temporary residents, SINs for permanent residents do not begin with the digit ‘9.’ They follow the regular nine-digit format without an initial identifier for temporary status.

  • Permanency: A SIN issued to a permanent resident does not expire. This SIN remains valid as long as the individual is a resident of Canada.

  • Document Requirements: Permanent residents need to provide proof of PR status, such as a Permanent Resident Card or Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) document.

Permanent SIN (Regular Format): For permanent residents, valid indefinitely without renewal requirements tied to residency status.

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How to Get a SIN in Halifax?

If you're in Halifax and ready to apply for a SIN, you have several options, depending on your preferences and eligibility. Anyone living in Canada who wants to work or receive benefits needs a SIN. The requirements vary slightly based on your residency status:

  1. Canadian Citizens: Bring proof of your citizenship, such as a birth certificate or citizenship certificate.

  2. Permanent Residents: A PR card or confirmation of permanent residency.

  3. Temporary Residents: A work or study permit authorizes employment, such as the work permit itself or study permit with the conditions allowing work.

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Where to Apply for a SIN in Halifax
1.    In-Person Application: Service Canada centers offer in-person SIN applications. 
When applying in person, you’ll need:

  • Your original primary document (e.g., passport and work permit, or PR card).

  • Any supporting documents (e.g., proof of residency status if required).

  • The in-person process is generally quick, and if everything is in order, you may receive your SIN on the spot.

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2.    Online Application: If you prefer not to visit a Service Canada office, you can apply online through the Service Canada website. Here’s what you need:

  • Scans or high-quality photos of your primary document.

  • Completed the SIN application form.

  • If required, digital copies of supporting documents (such as secondary ID).

Processing time for online applications may take up to 20 business days, and you’ll receive your SIN by mail.


3.    Mail Application: Applying by mail is another option, but it’s the slowest. If choosing this route, you’ll need to send original documents (no photocopies) to Service Canada. Be sure to use secure mail options and include your completed application form and a return address.


Mail your application to: Service Canada Center, Social Insurance Registration Office, P.O. Box 7000, Bathurst, New Brunswick, E2A 4T1

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Tips for Keeping Your SIN Secure

Tips for Keeping Your SIN Secure
Since your SIN is linked to your personal and financial information, protect it carefully:
•    Don’t Share It: Only share your SIN with employers, banks, and tax-related agencies.
•    Avoid Carrying It Daily: Memorize the number and keep your card or SIN document safe at home.
•    Report Lost or Stolen SIN: If you suspect your SIN has been stolen or misused, contact Service Canada right away.

Service Canada Centers in Halifax and Nearby Areas

1.    Halifax - Downtown Location

  • Address: 1505 Barrington St, Halifax, NS B3J 3K5

  • Phone: 1-800-622-6232

  • Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM

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2.    Dartmouth - Mic Mac Mall

  • Address: 21 Micmac Blvd, Dartmouth, NS B3A 4N3

  • Phone: 1-800-622-6232

  • Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:00 PMo    

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3.    Lower Sackville - Bedford Place Mall

  • Address: 1658 Bedford Hwy, Bedford, NS B4A 2X9

  • Phone: 1-800-622-6232

  • Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM

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4.    Dartmouth - Wyse Road

  • Address: 202 Brownlow Ave, Unit 104, Dartmouth, NS B3B 1T5

  • Phone: 1-800-622-6232

  • Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM

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5.    Halifax - Bayers Road Centre

  • Address: 7071 Bayers Road, Suite 128, Halifax, NS B3L 2C2

  • Phone: 1-800-622-6232

  • Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM

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