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What Documents Do I Need to Renew My SIN Number?

Updating your Social Insurance Number (SIN) is a critical procedure if you're a Canadian resident or planning to move there. Keeping your SIN updated ensures uninterrupted access to government programs and benefits. So, what documents do you need to renew your SIN number? Here are the details.

Option 1: For Canadian Citizens

If you're a Canadian citizen, you're required to produce certain documents to renew your SIN. The major document is one that proves your identity and legal status in Canada. These could be:

• Your valid Canadian passport.
• Your birth certificate, issued by the Canadian province or territory where you were born.
• A certificate of citizenship issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Option 2: For Registered Indians

If you're a Registered Indian and your SIN begins with the number '6', you can renew your SIN by providing a "Confirmation of Registration" document that verifies your Registered Indian status.

Option 3: For Permanent Residents

Permanent residents in Canada who wish to renew their SIN need to present their valid Permanent Resident Card or a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) document, along with a supporting identity document. Supporting identity documents include:

• Valid foreign passport.
• Provincial or territorial driver's license.
• Other provincial or territorial identification card.

Option 4: For Temporary Residents

Temporary residents can also renew their SIN. They are required to present a work permit, study permit, or visitor record issued by the IRCC. Along with these documents, a valid secondary document such as a foreign passport or a driver's license is also helpful.

Option 5: For Refugees

Refugees looking to renew their SIN need to present a document from the IRCC that proves their status as a Protected Person. Additionally, a secondary identification document like a foreign passport or a provincial identification card can support the application.

Option 6: If You Can’t Provide the Above Documents

In some cases, you may not be able to provide the documents listed above. For instance, you may have lost your identifying documents or might still be waiting on them. In this case, you can present other documents as stipulated by Service Canada.

How to Apply for SIN Renewal

Once you have gathered all the necessary documents, depending on your status, you can apply for SIN renewal. The most common platform where individuals renew their SIN is through Service Canada. Here, you can either apply in-person or by mail, depending on your circumstances.

Conclusion

While this guide provides a comprehensive list of documents required to renew your SIN number, it's important to remember that individual situations may vary. Always confirm with official Service Canada sources or use their website for the most accurate and current information on SIN renewal processes and requirements.