Canada SIN Process / March 19, 2025

Canada to Make SIN Process Easier for Newcomers

Canada will introduce SIN@Entry in 2025-2026 to make it easier for newcomers to get their Social Insurance Number.

The Canadian government is making it easier for newcomers to get their Social Insurance Number (SIN). They have announced new measures, including a program called SIN@Entry, which will simplify the process. This initiative, starting in 2025-2026, will allow immigrants applying for work permits or permanent residency to request their SIN directly through their online immigration account. This means they won’t have to apply separately, saving time and effort.

What Is SIN@Entry?
SIN@Entry is a new program that will let people applying for Canadian immigration services get their SIN without needing to visit a Service Canada location. They will be able to request their SIN and receive their confirmation letter through their secure Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) account. This will make the process faster and more convenient.

According to reports, this program could reduce in-person visits to Service Canada offices by around 50%. This would also mean shorter wait times for people who still need in-person services for other programs.

How Is SIN@Entry Different from SIN@Landing?
SIN@Entry is not the same as SIN@Landing, which is already available at some Canadian airports. SIN@Landing allows new Temporary and Permanent Residents to apply for their SIN as soon as they arrive in Canada. They can do this at Service Canada centers located in certain airports.

Currently, SIN@Landing is available at:

  • Toronto Pearson International Airport
  • Montréal Trudeau International Airport
  • Vancouver International Airport
  • Halifax Stanfield International Airport
  • Calgary International Airport
  • Edmonton International Airport

These centers are not open all the time, so travelers should check the hours before arriving. If the center is closed, newcomers can apply for their SIN online or visit a Service Canada office later.

Better eSIN Services Coming Soon
The government also plans to improve the eSIN (online SIN) service. From September 2025, a new technology system will speed up online applications. Instead of waiting five business days, applicants will get their SIN in just minutes.

Starting May 2025, SIN confirmation letters will be available digitally as PDF files through My Service Canada Account (MSCA). This means applicants can download and save their SIN confirmation instantly, instead of waiting for it in the mail.

Who Needs a SIN?
Anyone who works in Canada needs a SIN, including temporary residents, permanent residents, and citizens. It is also required to access government programs and benefits. International students need a SIN if they want to work part-time while studying (if their permit allows it).

How to Get a SIN in Canada
Currently, there are three ways to apply for a SIN:

  1. In person: Visit a Service Canada office and get your SIN on the same day.
  2. Online: Apply through MSCA. It currently takes five business days to process.
  3. By mail: It takes 20 business days to process after the application is received.

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