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Getting Your ID in Manitoba

Having proper identification is important for accessing health care, education, housing, travel, banking, and social programs. Whether you're applying for a health card, status card, or photo ID, this guide will walk you through the steps to get the most common forms of ID used in Manitoba.

Each section below explains:

  • What the ID is used for

  • Who can apply

  • What documents you need

  • How much it costs

  • Where to apply

This information is especially helpful for GLFN members living in Winnipeg or travelling for medical or personal reasons. 

Why the Birth Certificate should be the first ID you apply for

What it is:
Official proof of your birth—used to apply for almost all other IDs (health card, SIN, status card, etc.).

Requirements:

  • Must be born in Manitoba

  • Provide full name, birth date, place of birth, and parents' names

  • Must be the person, a parent, or legal guardian to apply

  • Valid ID required with application (e.g., driver’s licence, health card)

Fees:
💰 $30 per copy

Wait Time:
🕒 About 2–4 weeks by mail

Apply Online or by Mail:
📄 Apply here

Manitoba Health Card

What it is:
Proof that you’re eligible for free health care in Manitoba (doctor visits, hospital care, labs, and more).

Requirements:

  • Must live in Manitoba at least 6 months a year

  • Must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or hold an eligible work permit

  • Need documents showing:

    • Identity (e.g., birth certificate, passport)

    • Legal status in Canada

    • Manitoba address (e.g., lease, utility bill)

    • Dependent info if applying for family

Fees:
✅ Free to apply or update

Wait Time:
🕒 About 2–4 weeks to receive your card by mail

Apply Online or by Mail:
📄 Apply or update here

Social Insurance Number (SIN)

What it is:
A 9-digit number required to work in Canada, access government benefits, file taxes, and apply for some services.

Requirements:

  • Canadian citizen: Birth certificate or Canadian passport

  • Permanent resident: PR card or Record of Landing

  • Temporary resident: Work/study permit and passport

  • Must also show proof of identity (can be same document)

Fees:
✅ Free

Wait Time:
🕒 Immediately if applying in person
🕒 ~2–3 weeks if applying online or by mail

Apply Online, by Mail, or In Person:
📄 Apply here

Secure Status Card (SCIS)

What it is:
A government-issued ID that proves your status under the Indian Act. It can be used for travel within Canada, health benefits, tax exemptions, and to apply for other IDs.

Requirements:

  • Must be a registered Status Indian under the Indian Act

  • Provide:

    • Proof of identity (e.g., birth certificate, driver’s licence, passport)

    • Two passport-style photos

    • Completed SCIS application form

    • Guarantor if applying without photo ID

Fees:
✅ Free (you may need to pay for ID photos)

Wait Time:
🕒 About 8 to 12 weeks by mail

Apply by Mail or at Regional Offices:
📄 Apply here

Manitoba ID

What it is:
A photo ID for Manitobans who don't have a driver’s licence. It's accepted for banking, travel, medical appointments, and government services.

Requirements:

  • Must be a Manitoba resident

  • Cannot already hold a valid driver’s licence

  • Provide:

    • Proof of legal name and birth date (e.g., birth certificate, passport)

    • Proof of Manitoba residency (e.g., lease, utility bill from past 90 days)

    • Completed application and possibly a Guarantor form if missing ID

Fees:
💰 $20 (valid for 5 years)
💰 $10 for a replacement card

Wait Time:
🕒 Usually 2–3 weeks by mail

Apply In Person at MPI or Autopac Agent:
📄 Learn how to apply

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