(i) You Will Need a SIN

Before you can start working in Canada, you need to have your SIN (Social Insurance Number). A Social Insurance Number (SIN) is an identification number given to each person for the purposes of income tax, Employment Insurance, old age pension, etc. It’s similar to the Australian Tax File Number.

You will need to wait until you are in Canada to apply for your SIN, because you need to be able to prove not only your identity, but also your status in Canada. This means that you will need your passport, with your work permit issued in it, to prove that you are eligible to apply for a SIN.

To apply for a SIN you must complete an application form. Application forms may be picked up at your local Human Resources Development Canada (HRDC) office, or you can download the form from their website at www.hrdc-drhc.gc.ca (do a search under Forms for SIN).

It is best to apply for your SIN in person at a HRDC office. The process is faster and more convenient, and you don’t have to part with your passport or work permit. Applying by mail takes longer, and requires you to send your passport as your identity document must be an original, not a copy.

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