Ssns For International Students: Do They Expire?

International students in the US who are on an F-1 visa and have received an offer of paid employment are eligible to apply for a Social Security Number (SSN). The SSN is a unique identifier that is required for international students to receive wages and for tax purposes. While an international student's work authorization will eventually expire, their SSN is permanent and will never change.

SSN requirements before starting work

Social Security Numbers (SSNs) are required by law for those seeking to be paid for work in the US. While SSNs are issued only to those who are employed and/or have tax reporting requirements, individuals who have been granted legal authorisation to work in the US and are working must apply for and obtain an SSN.

International students seeking an SSN must visit a Social Security Office in person, as applications cannot be made by mail or online. The process is free of charge, and the Social Security Administration (SSA) will mail the SSN and card to the applicant once all of their immigration information has been verified, which can take between two and four weeks or longer.

To apply for an SSN, international students must have received an offer of paid employment and will need to bring certain documents with them to the SSA office. These include:

• A job offer letter
• An SSN letter from the International Students and Scholars (ISSS) office
• An OISS letter confirming on-campus employment and full-time student status (unless employment is based on practical training, international organisation employment, or severe economic hardship employment)
• An unexpired Employment Authorisation (EAD) card, if engaged in OPT
• An I-20 form with CPT authorisation, if engaged in CPT
• An EAD card, if a J-2 dependent with employment authorisation

It is recommended that international students do not apply for an SSN more than 30 days before their scheduled start date, and new students should wait at least two to three weeks from their arrival in the US before requesting an SSN.

SSN application process

As an international student, you can apply for an SSN if you have been offered paid employment. The Social Security Administration (SSA) will not issue an SSN without proof of employment.

The SSN application process for international students involves several steps:

• Obtain a job offer letter: Before applying for an SSN, international students must first secure a job offer for paid employment. This is a prerequisite, as the SSA requires proof of employment eligibility when applying for an SSN.
• Request an SSN letter: After receiving a job offer, contact the International Students and Scholars Services (ISSS) office to request an SSN letter. This letter certifies your F-1 student status and is necessary for the SSN application process.
• Locate the nearest SSA office: Use the Social Security Office Locator to find the SSA branch office closest to your U.S. address. The office location is typically determined by your ZIP code.
• Make an appointment: Call the SSA branch office to schedule an appointment. It is recommended to plan for a potentially long wait time, as a visit to the SSA can often take several hours.
• Gather required documentation: You will need to provide original documents that prove your identity, age, and work-authorized immigration status (your visa). A letter from your sponsor authorizing your employment may also be required.
• Complete Form SS-5 or Form SS-5 FS: International students typically use Form SS-5 FS, which is a variation of the standard Form SS-5 used by US citizens and non-citizens.
• Submit the application: Take your completed application form and required documents to your local SSA office in person. You cannot apply by mail or online.
• Wait for processing: After your documents are verified, the SSA will process your application. The usual processing time is 2 to 4 weeks, but it can take up to 8 weeks if additional security procedures are necessary.
• Receive your SSN card: Once your application is approved, the SSA will mail a Social Security card to the address provided on your application form. The card will likely have the notation, "Valid for work only with DHS Authorization."
• Memorize your SSN: It is recommended to memorize your Social Security Number and keep the physical card in a safe place with your other important documents, rather than carrying it in your wallet.

SSN verification letter

Social Security Numbers (SSNs) are required by law for anyone who works in the United States, including nonimmigrants, and are used for tax purposes and government purposes. International students can only obtain an SSN if they have an offer of paid employment.

The SSN verification letter is one of the documents required to apply for an SSN. The letter must be written on official department letterhead and signed. The letter is used to verify your visa status.

To obtain the SSN verification letter, you must first request it from the ISSS office. They will certify your good F-1 status in the letter. After the letter is completed and signed, you will be given the letter to upload to the Student Upload Tool.

Once you have the SSN verification letter, along with the other required documents, you will need to visit a local SSA office to apply for your SSN. It is recommended that you make an appointment, as walk-ins are not always accepted.

SSN and identity theft

A Social Security Number (SSN) is a crucial identifier for individuals working in the United States, including international students. While an SSN alone does not confer work authorization, it is required by law for tax reporting and receiving wages for work performed in the country. Obtaining an SSN can be a lengthy process for international students, and they must secure employment or an internship and obtain an employment verification letter before becoming eligible to apply for one.

Given the sensitive nature of the information associated with an SSN, it is essential to safeguard this number to prevent identity theft. Identity theft occurs when someone uses your personal or financial information without your permission, and it can have severe consequences. Here are some critical precautions to prevent identity theft:

• Do not share your SSN or other personal information, such as your bank account number or date of birth, with anyone unless necessary. Be cautious of phone calls, texts, or emails requesting such information.
• Store your Social Security card and other important documents securely, preferably not in your wallet.
• Regularly review your credit card and bank account statements for any unauthorized or suspicious transactions.
• Understand the warning signs of identity theft, such as unfamiliar accounts or transactions in your name, and be vigilant about protecting your personal information, including on social media.
• Take advantage of fraud alerts and credit freezes offered by credit reporting agencies to protect your accounts.
• If you suspect identity theft, promptly report it to the relevant authorities and follow the recommended steps for recovery, such as completing an Identity Theft Affidavit.

By following these precautions, international students can help protect their SSN and personal information from identity theft, minimizing the potential impact on their financial and digital security.

SSN expiry

Social Security Numbers (SSNs) are permanent and do not expire. If you have been assigned an SSN, it will remain valid for life and never change. However, it is essential to understand that while your SSN is permanent, your work authorization will eventually expire.

To obtain an SSN as an international student, you must have an offer of paid employment and the appropriate visa status. You cannot apply for an SSN by mail or online; you need to visit a Social Security Administration (SSA) office in person. The process involves contacting the ISSS office to request an SSN letter, locating the nearest SSA office based on your US address, and scheduling an appointment.

It is crucial to handle your SSN with care. Do not disclose it to anyone who calls, emails, or texts you. The SSN is a unique identifier and, as such, is often targeted by identity thieves. Only share your SSN with legitimate businesses that require it for tax or government purposes.

Additionally, your SSN is necessary when applying for a State ID or driver's license. You will also need a letter from the ISSS office certifying your good F-1 status for these applications. Remember that the SSN is a requirement for receiving wages from employment in the US, and you must report your SSN to your employer once you receive it.

Frequently asked questions