When and How to Update Your SIN Record (Name Change, Status, Expiry)
Introduction
Keeping the information on your Social Insurance Number (SIN) record consistent with your other identity documents is critically important. This ensures you won’t encounter any issues related to your employment, tax, and social benefit rights in Canada. OpenGlo is here to guide you on exactly when you need to act and how to do it.
WHO IS THIS ARTICLE FOR?
This article is for you if:
- ✅ You have recently legally changed your name (e.g., after marriage, or by a court order).
- ✅ Your immigration status has just changed (e.g., from a temporary student/worker to a Permanent Resident).
- ✅ You hold a temporary SIN (starting with a “9”) and your permit is expiring or has been renewed.
You do not need to go through this process if:
- ❌ You have only changed your home address or phone number. Service Canada does not store your contact information on your SIN record.
Part 1: Why Update? Details for Each Case
1.1. When Legally Changing Your Name
It is crucial that the name on your SIN record perfectly matches the name on your other documents (passport, driver’s license). Inconsistencies can cause problems when an employer verifies your identity, when the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) processes your tax files, or when you apply for government benefits.
1.2. When Changing Your Immigration Status
When you transition from a temporary resident to a Permanent Resident, your SIN record will be updated. You will receive a new Confirmation of SIN letter that no longer begins with a “9” and has no expiry date, confirming your new status and removing the limitations associated with a temporary SIN.
1.3. When Renewing Your Temporary Permit
For those with a SIN beginning with a “9”, the expiry date on your SIN is tied to the expiry date of your study/work permit. Updating to the new expiry date after renewing your permit allows you to legally prove to your employer that you are authorized to continue working in Canada.
Part 2: The Process and Necessary Documents for Updating
The process for updating your SIN information is very similar to applying for the first time.
- Step 1: Complete the Application You will still use the official “Application for a Social Insurance Number” form. On the application, you will provide the new information that needs to be updated.
- Step 2: Prepare Your Documents This is the most important step. Depending on your situation, the required documents will differ:
- To update your Name: You will need a valid Primary Document + a legal Supporting Document that proves the name change (e.g., a marriage certificate, a legal change of name document).
- To update your Immigration Status (to PR): You will need your new Primary Document that proves your Permanent Resident status (e.g., PR Card or COPR).
- To update the Expiry Date: You will need your renewed work or study permit as your Primary Document.
- Step 3: Submit Your Application You can submit your prepared application through the familiar methods: Online or In-person at a Service Canada Centre.
- Step 4: Notify Relevant Parties (Very Important!) After your SIN record is updated (especially when changing from temporary to permanent resident status), it is your responsibility to inform the following:
- Your employer(s)
- Your financial institutions (banks, credit unions)
- Any other government programs/agencies you deal with
Part 3: Conclusion
Keeping your SIN record “alive” and accurate according to your current situation is an important part of your responsibilities while living in Canada. It ensures you can always enjoy your full rights smoothly.
⬅️ Need to review the basic process or document types? Go back to our Complete Guide to Applying for a SIN.
💬 Have a more complex situation to share? Join the OpenGlo Community to learn from the experiences of others!
