International Trainees

Apply for a Social Insurance Number

Once you have a valid Work Permit, you may apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN). The SIN is a nine-digit number used for administration by the Canadian government. You require a SIN to work and to receive government benefits in Canada. To apply, visit an office of Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), complete a form and provide proof of your identity and status in Canada. This will require a passport with employment authorization or student visa; a letter from your employer is useful.

More information can be found online at http://www.servicecanada.gc.ca/eng/sin/apply/how.shtml, including how to apply from outside of Canada.

Open a bank account

You must open a bank account that will be used by payroll to deposit your pay. You will need your SIN and/or passport with work permit and proof of address.

Citizenship and Immigration Canada Information on Banks and Financial Institutions

Obtain Health Insurance

The Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) covers all your essential diagnostic and treatment services.

Generally, to be eligible for Ontario health coverage you must:

• be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident or among one of the newcomer to Canada groups who are eligible for OHIP as set out in Ontario’s Health Insurance Act ; and
• be physically present in Ontario for 153 days in any 12-month period; and
• be physically present in Ontario for at least 153 days of the first 183 days immediately after establishing residency in the province; and
• make your primary place of residence in Ontario.

OHIP coverage normally becomes effective three months after the date you establish residency in Ontario. The ministry strongly encourages new and returning residents to purchase private health insurance in case you become ill during the OHIP waiting period.

For details about applying for OHIP, visit the Ontario Health Insurance Plan website.

Note:

• International postdoctoral research fellows beginning research/teaching activities for 12 months or more are eligible for OHIP coverage.
• If you have a work visa, your family is not covered by OHIP unless you have a letter from your employer stating that you will be staying for three years.