Multi-factor authentication to access MSCA
Multi-factor authentication is an enhanced security measure. It helps protect your personal information. This mandatory step helps prevent unauthorized access to your My Service Canada Account (MSCA). You will need to enter a security code to confirm your identity each time you access MSCA.
Note: This step does not apply to BC Services Card users. You will be asked to confirm your identity on the BC Services Card app.
How to register
To register for multi-factor authentication:
- sign in to MSCA or register for an account if you’re a new user
- answer the security questions that appear on the screen (returning users only, if applicable)
- choose one of the following security options on the multi-factor authentication page:
Authenticator app
Download a free secure authenticator app on your device (smartphone, tablet, laptop or desktop). The app will create a security code. Enter the code on the multi-factor authentication page to confirm your identity. No personal information is shared between the third party app and the Government of Canada.
Text message (SMS)
Provide your cell phone number to receive a security code by text message (SMS). You can provide a local or international phone number. Enter the code you received to confirm your identity.
Voice message
Provide your phone number (cell phone or landline) to receive a security code by voice message. You can provide a local or international phone number. Enter the code you received to confirm your identity.
MSCA Passcode Grid
Use the MSCA Passcode Grid option if you don’t have a telephone or a smart device. A unique Passcode Grid will be created just for you. You will need to save or print it for future use each time you sign in to MSCA. It is a table made up of numbered rows and lettered columns, with unique values in each cell. Enter the requested combination of values to confirm your identity. Your MSCA Passcode Grid will expire after 24 months.
How to change your multi-factor authentication option
You can change your multi-factor authentication security option if you:
- want to use a different multi-factor authentication option
- changed your phone number
- lost your MSCA Passcode Grid
To change your multi-factor authentication security option:
- sign in to your MSCA
- select the “Reset profile” button when you are asked to enter your multi-factor authentication security code
- answer the security questions that you have created when you registered for MSCA
- choose your new multi-factor authentication security option
Help
If your MSCA is locked due to the security code, please contact our Registration and Authentication Help Desk.
Canada toll-free: 1-866-279-5238
The hours of operation are 8:30 am to 4:30 pm local time, Monday to Friday (closed on civic holidays)
Canada VRS (Video Relay Service)
Register with Canada VRS to download the app and call the VRS line.
If you use any other operator-assisted relay service, call our regular toll-free number on this page instead of the Canada VRS number.
Outside Canada: 1-506-548-7009 (long-distance charges apply)
The hours of operation are 8:00 am to 8:30 pm Atlantic time, Monday to Friday (closed on civic holidays)
Average wait times
Our service standard is to answer your call within 10 minutes. Please see below our average wait times for the week of October 20, 2025.
Definition of average wait time
This is the average length of time that callers wait in queue before speaking to an agent.
| Days | Average wait time |
|---|---|
| Monday October 20, 2025 | 4 seconds |
| Tuesday October 21, 2025 | 9 seconds |
| Wednesday October 22, 2025 | 8 seconds |
| Thursday October 23, 2025 | 18 seconds |
| Friday October 24, 2025 | 12 seconds |
| Average wait time for the week of October 20, 2025 | 10 seconds |
Weekly average wait times
| Weeks | Average wait time |
|---|---|
| The week of October 13 to 17 | 13 seconds |
| The week of October 6 to 10 | 1 minute |
| The week of September 29 to October 3 | 3 minutes |
| The week of September 22 to 26 | 42 seconds |
Monthly average wait times
| Months | Average wait time |
|---|---|
| September 2025 | 2 minutes |
| August 2025 | 2 minutes |
| July 2025 | 9 minutes |
| June 2025 | 65 minutes |
| May 2025 | 42 minutes |
| April 2025 | 35 minutes |
| March 2025 | 28 minutes |
| February 2025 | 8 minutes |
| January 2025 | 5 minutes |
| December 2024 | 4 minutes |
| November 2024 | 3 minutes |
| October 2024 | 36 seconds |