Working Without A Social Security Number: Options For International Students

International students in the US can apply for a Social Security Number (SSN), which is a 9-digit identifier issued by the US Social Security Administration (SSA). However, simply having an SSN does not grant authorisation to work in the US. International students need to prove their eligibility to work in the US and obtain employment authorisation before they can apply for an SSN. They can start working without an SSN but must apply for one within 90 days of starting their job.

International students can work without an SSN, but they must apply for one within 90 days of starting employment

International students can work without a Social Security Number (SSN) in the US. However, they must apply for one as soon as possible, within 90 days of starting their job. An SSN is a nine-digit number issued to US citizens, permanent residents, and nonresidents with authorization to work in the US. It is required to verify work eligibility, report income and taxes, and collect Social Security benefits. While it is not necessary for certain services and benefits, such as obtaining a driver's license, credit card, or insurance, it is often used as a matter of convenience for other purposes, such as opening bank accounts.

To apply for an SSN, international students must have a job lined up, even if it is part-time, on-campus work. They will need to obtain valid employment authorization, which can be based on on-campus or off-campus employment. For on-campus employment, a letter from the student's department confirming their job offer is required. For off-campus employment, an Employment Authorization (EAD) card from the US Citizenship and Immigration Services is necessary.

Once students have their employment authorization, they can apply for an SSN by completing Form SS-5 and submitting it, along with the required documents, to their local Social Security office in person. The necessary documents include a valid passport, proof of identity, immigration status, and work eligibility. The Social Security Administration will verify the information, and the student will receive their SSN and card by mail. This process can take 2-4 weeks or more, so it is recommended to apply as soon as possible.

To apply for an SSN, international students must have a job lined up

International students with F-1 or M-1 visa status can apply for a Social Security Number (SSN). However, they must have valid employment authorization and a job lined up to do so. This can be a part-time, on-campus job or off-campus employment.

To apply for an SSN, international students must follow these steps:

• Obtain valid employment authorization: This can be done by providing evidence of on-campus employment, such as a letter from the student's department confirming the job offer. The letter must be printed on department letterhead, signed by the hiring department, and include the student's job title. For off-campus employment, students must obtain a valid, unexpired Employment Authorization (EAD) card from the US Citizenship and Immigration Services, authorizing them to work under specific categories.
• Submit a Social Security Letter Request: This can be done through the student's school portal, such as TC-Compass. If the student is a J-1 exchange visitor requesting an SSN based on on-campus employment, they must submit a department letter to the Office of International Students and Scholars (OISS), who will issue a second letter confirming their employment and student status.
• Gather required documents: Students must bring their passport, I-94 card or printout of their electronic I-94 information, employment offer letter, and any other relevant documentation, such as a Social Security authorization letter from their sponsor if applicable.
• Apply in person: Students must visit their local Social Security Administration office to show their documents in person and complete the social security application process.

It is important to note that having an SSN does not grant legal authorization to work in the US. Students must ensure they have valid work authorization before applying for an SSN. The SSN is used to track earnings over a worker's lifetime and is required by the US government for tax and employment reporting purposes.

International students can apply for an SSN by submitting Form SS-5

International students can obtain a Social Security Number (SSN) by submitting Form SS-5, the standard application form for an SSN. This form can be completed online, but it must then be printed and either mailed or delivered in person to a local Social Security office, along with the required documentation. This documentation includes proof of identity, age, and work-authorized immigration status (i.e., your visa).

It is recommended that international students wait at least ten days after arriving in the US before applying for an SSN to allow for easier verification of DHS documents and a speedier application process. Students should also be aware that they must have obtained valid employment authorization before applying for an SSN. This can include on-campus employment, off-campus training authorization, or a valid, unexpired Employment Authorization (EAD) card.

Once a student's application has been accepted, they should request an application receipt to show their employer that they have applied for an SSN. They can expect to receive their SSN within 4-6 weeks, although processing times may vary. The Social Security Administration will mail the SSN and card once all immigration information has been verified.

It is important to note that while an SSN is required for tax and employment reporting purposes, simply having an SSN does not grant legal authorization to work in the US.

International students with F-1 or M-1 visa status are eligible to apply for an SSN

International students with F-1 or M-1 visa status are eligible to apply for a Social Security Number (SSN). To apply for an SSN, you must have a job lined up, even part-time, on-campus work makes you eligible. You will need to take all your documents to your local Social Security Administration office in person to file your application for an SSN card.

A valid passport is a must-have document when applying for an SSN as a foreigner. Additionally, you will need original documents proving your identity, immigration status, and work eligibility. It is important to note that you can start working without an SSN, but you must apply and obtain one within 90 days of starting your job.

The Social Security Administration will mail your number and card as soon as all your immigration information has been verified, which can take 2-4 weeks or more. You can replace your card for free if it is lost or stolen if you meet the eligibility requirements.

It is important to guard your Social Security Card and number carefully, as they contain confidential information and are key to confirming your identity.

International students can start working on-campus 30 days before the start date of their first semester

International students on an F-1 visa can work on-campus before the start of their first semester. They can start working up to 30 days before the commencement of classes. This is applicable to new students, including transfer students and those who have changed their level of education.

To apply for on-campus employment, international students must first talk to their Designated School Official (DSO). If approved, the DSO will provide a letter of approval. Students will need this letter, along with a letter of approval from their employer, to apply for a Social Security Number (SSN).

It is important to note that a Social Security Number is not a work permit. It is used to track earnings over a worker's lifetime. While it is not required for work authorization, individuals working in the US must apply for an SSN. The Social Security Administration will mail the SSN and card once all immigration information has been verified, which can take 2-4 weeks or more.

For off-campus employment, F-1 students must have completed at least one academic year of their program and demonstrate economic hardship or emergent circumstances. They must file a Form I-765, "Application for Employment Authorization," with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and pay a fee. If approved, USCIS will send a Form I-766, "Employment Authorization Document" (EAD), specifying the dates for off-campus work.

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