Is the SIN (Social Insurance Number) a required field to be completed on the form?

Yes, VCIB is collecting the SIN based on CRA requirements on the RC518 Declaration of Tax Residence for Individuals form.

Providing your SIN as part of the fully completed self-declaration form gives VCIB confirmation of your tax residency. If you complete the form declaring that you are solely a Canadian tax resident, VCIB does not have an obligation to report your information to CRA.

If you are reluctant to provide your SIN and provide an incomplete form, there is a possibility of follow up clarification and fines (assessed by the CRA) to the cardholder for failure to report.