People working in Canada who want to avail the federal government’s programs and benefits would require a Social Insurance Number (SIN), which is a nine-digit number.
SIN is private for all who get it, and no one other than the individuals assigned it is prohibited from using it. It is each user’s responsibility to safeguard their SINs.
Service Canada issues SINs that are given in a paper format which is a receipt of the SIN letter. If you forget your SIN, you can see it on your income tax returns, employment record, tax slips, or Registered (Retirement Savings Plan) RRSP contribution, or you can also get your SIN’s confirmation through the submission of an application.
In case you lose your SIN, a new one will not be issued by Service Canada. A new one will only be issued if there is evidence that the stolen SIN was used for devious reasons.
If you want to apply for a SIN online, a letter will be sent to you with your SIN in less than 15 business days from the application date. You are eligible to apply for your SIN even when you are outside of Canada.