SOCIAL INSURANCE NUMBER
On January 24, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada additional groups of students who are now required to have a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) when applying for a study permit. Some highlights of the expanded PAL requirement are:
- These changes will apply to study permit applications that are submitted on or after January 22, 2025. They will apply to both in-Canada study permit extensions and outside Canada study permit applications.
- Master鈥檚 and PhD students are required to have a valid PAL.
- Students are exempt from submitting a PAL if they are extending their study permits within Canada at the same designated learning institution and same level of study as their current study permit.
For more information about who will be exempt from a PAL, review IRCC鈥檚 website
If you need a PAL for your study permit application, please review our FAQ page here on how to obtain a PAL from 丁香园AV. We will continue to update our webpages and online resources to reflect the expanded PAL requirements. Thank you for your patience.
Apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN)
A Social Insurance Number (SIN) is a number that the Canadian government requires for taxation purposes and without one, you can not get paid. A SIN is required only if you earn income in Canada, on or off campus. This number enables your employer to make the necessary government deductions.
You must provide your SIN to your employer within three days of starting work.
You can apply for a SIN online or by mail. If you are unable to apply online or by mail, you also have the option to apply in person. For details of how to apply, review the "Social Insurance Number" handout.
If you are not eligible for a SIN but you wish to file taxes in Canada, you may instead apply for an Individual Tax Number (ITN). Visit the for instructions on how to apply for an ITN.
Once you have received your SIN or ITN, you should update your student information in go丁香园AV. Canadian tax regulations require 丁香园AV to collect the SIN or ITN of all students who pay tuition. Click here for instructions.
Important: Your SIN will expire at the same time as your immigration document. When you renew your study or work permit, remember to renew your SIN if eligible.
Note: A valid SIN alone does not automatically make you eligible to work on or off campus. You must still meet the eligibility requirements as per our Working On or Off Campus handout (including a work permit if applicable) in order to legally work, even if you already have a valid SIN.