Working With Ssn: International Student Opportunities

International students in the US can apply for a Social Security Number (SSN) if they have a job or internship and an employment verification letter from their institution. The SSN is used for tax and employment reporting purposes, and while it is not a work permit, it is required to verify work eligibility. Students must provide evidence of lawful employment, such as an on-campus job or authorization for practical training. The application process can be completed online, and there is no charge for the SSN card.

Eligibility requirements for international students

International students can apply for a Social Security Number (SSN) in the US. Eligibility for an SSN is based on a person's eligibility to work in the country. To apply for an SSN, you must have a job lined up, but even part-time, on-campus work makes you eligible. You will then need to take all your documents to your local Social Security Administration office in person to file your application.

• International students need to apply for an F-1 student visa.
• You will need to provide a photocopy of your government-issued ID (usually a passport).
• You will need to supply two letters of recommendation from former teachers, employers, coaches, etc.
• If your first language is not English, you must submit proof of English language proficiency. This can be done by submitting a TOEFL or IELTS test score. Some universities may waive this requirement if you have completed four years of education at an English-language secondary school.
• International students are required to provide confirmation of financial eligibility. A copy of your bank statement is expected from most schools, although some may allow other documentation to prove financial eligibility.

Application process

International students with F-1 or M-1 visa status are eligible to apply for a Social Security Number (SSN). The application process for an SSN is as follows:

Step 1: Find a Job

Firstly, you need to find a job to be eligible for an SSN. This can be either on-campus or off-campus employment. Even part-time work makes you eligible.

Step 2: Gather Documents

Next, you must gather the relevant documents. This includes a valid passport, as well as any other documents that prove your identity, age, immigration status, and work eligibility. If you are an F-1 student, you will also need a work permit (I-766). J-1 students will need a letter from their sponsor, on letterhead with an original signature, authorizing their employment.

Step 3: Submit Application

Now, you can submit your application. You can start by filling out Form SS-5 online, which is the official application form for a Social Security Card. You can also schedule an appointment online. After this, you must take your application form and original documents to your local Social Security office in person. It is recommended that you do this within 45 days of your online submission.

Step 4: Wait for Processing

The Social Security Administration will review your application and verify your documents. This process usually takes 2-4 weeks but can take longer in certain cases. Once your application is approved, your Social Security card will be mailed to you.

Step 5: Receive SSN

Finally, you will receive your SSN in the mail. You should memorize the number and keep the card in a safe place. It is important to note that having an SSN does not authorize you to work; you must have separate legal authorization for this.

Necessary documents

As an international student, you must have employment authorization to work in the US to be eligible for an SSN. You must also show proof of a job offer/employment eligibility.

The necessary documents you will need to apply for an SSN include:

• A valid passport
• Original documents proving your identity, immigration status, and work eligibility
• Work permit I-766 (if you are an F-1 student)
• A letter from your sponsor (if you are a J-1 student, student intern, or international visitor). The letter should be on sponsor letterhead with an original signature that authorizes your employment.
• Evidence of lawful F-1 employment such as an on-campus job or authorization for curricular practical training (CPT) or optional practical training (OPT)
• Form I-20 with the employment page completed
• Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status or (DSO) letter

All documents must be originals or copies certified by the issuing agency.

You can start the application process online at www.ssa.gov/ssnumber or www.ssa.gov/number-card, and then present your original documents in person at your local Social Security Administration office.

Time taken to receive SSN

The time taken to receive a Social Security Number (SSN) varies. The Social Security Administration (SSA) usually takes 3-6 weeks to process an application. However, it can take up to 7-10 business days for the SSA to issue a replacement Social Security Card after documentation has been approved if you apply using Form I-765 and/or Form I-485.

International students must have employment authorization to work in the US to be eligible to apply for an SSN. They must show proof of a job offer/employment eligibility and provide relevant documentation. F-1 students who are not eligible to receive an SSN but receive non-wage income in the US (e.g. scholarships, grants) must apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) for tax purposes.

An SSN is required by the US government for tax and employment reporting purposes. It is used to report an employee's earnings or a student's taxable scholarship benefits. It is also used for other unofficial purposes, such as opening a phone, utility, or bank account. However, simply having an SSN does not authorize someone to work in the US.

Importance of SSN for international students

International students in the US can apply for a Social Security Number (SSN), a 9-digit identifier issued by the US Social Security Administration (SSA). It is important to note that having an SSN does not grant authorisation to work in the US. However, if you are an international student with authorisation to work, you are required to apply for an SSN.

The SSN is primarily used to report income and pay taxes to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) while employed in the US. It is also used to report a student's taxable scholarship benefits. The number is also useful for other purposes, such as opening a bank account, setting up a phone line, or utility accounts.

To apply for an SSN as an international student, you must have a job or internship in the US and an employment verification letter from your institution. You will then need to take all your documents to your local Social Security Administration office in person to file your application. This includes a valid passport, proof of identity, immigration status, and work eligibility. It is also possible to start the application process online.

The process can take between two and six weeks, so it is recommended to apply well before your intended start date.

Frequently asked questions