Canada to simplify SIN issuance for newcomers

The Canadian government announced a series of measures to improve Social Insurance Number (SIN) services in the country.

This includes the launch of SIN@Entry, a program specifically geared towards newcomers.

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Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) and Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will introduce this program in 2025-2026, described as an “integrated and automated bundle of immigration services and SIN services.”

Note: A Social Insurance Number (SIN) is a nine-digit number. It is required by everyone to work, file taxes or access government benefits in Canada.

What is SIN@Entry?

In an email to CIC News, ESDC has explained that SIN@Entry will give applicants for immigration streams – such as work permits or permanent residence – an option to request a SIN and view their SIN Confirmation Letter directly through their IRCC secure account.

This integration will therefore allow applicants to request and receive their SIN as part of their interaction with IRCC, eliminating the need to apply separately for SIN.

As per the first State of Service Report, released March 7, this initiative could reduce in-person visits to Service Canada locations by as much as 50%, which would also reduce wait times for those accessing other programs in person.

While an official launch date for the program has not been shared yet, it's set to be this year, as per a press release.

How is SIN@Entry different from SIN@Landing?

SIN@Entry is not to be confused with SIN@Landing, an initiative that is already in place.

SIN@Landing, available at select Canadian airports, allows Temporary Residents (TRs) and Permanent Residents (PRs) to apply for their SIN upon arrival at select airports thanks to Service Canada centres conveniently located on-site.

This gives newcomers to Canada a chance to obtain their SIN before leaving the airport, giving them a smoother arrival experience.

SIN@Landing is available at the following airports in Canada:

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

Note: Service Canada centres in airports are not open 24/7. Those arriving in Canada are recommended to check timings in advance. If the centres in the airports are not open, newcomers can always apply for their SIN online or at Service Canada centres outside the airport at a later day and time.

Improvements to eSIN Automation

The Canadian government has also announced measures improve Canada’s eSIN Automation, which allows individuals to apply for a SIN online.

In September 2025, ESDC and Service Canada plan to launch an enhanced eSIN system that will process eligible online SIN applications using new technology.

As per the report, this will bring processing time for SIN applications down to just minutes. Currently, it takes five business days to process a SIN application, if applied for online.

It was also announced that, starting May 2025, digital copies of the SIN confirmation letter will be generated as a PDF through My Service Canada Account (MSCA).  This gives applicants access to a digital version that can be stored securely, reducing the reliance on SIN confirmation letters arriving by mail.  

Who needs a SIN?

A SIN is required by anyone who is working in Canada or who wants to access government programs and benefits.

This includes temporary residents, permanent residents, and Canadian citizens.

International students also need a SIN if they plan on working part time (provided their study permit allows it).

What is the current process for obtaining a SIN as a newcomer?

There are three ways to apply for a SIN in Canada:

• In person at a Service Canada location: Through this route, it’s possible to receive a SIN within the same day.
• Online through MSCA: This takes five business days to process, as of the time of writing.
• By mail: Applications are processed within 20 business days from the date when they are received.

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