Lori Meadows
International students can apply for a Social Security Number (SSN) in the US, but they must meet certain requirements. The process involves submitting an application and providing original documents that prove age, identity, and work-authorized immigration status. Students must also obtain valid employment authorization, which can be done through on-campus employment or other eligible avenues. The Social Security Administration (SSA) assigns SSNs to eligible non-immigrant workers, and the number is used to report wages and track benefits. While an SSN is not required for various purposes, it is often convenient for opening accounts or applying for a driver's license in certain states.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Who can apply for an SSN? | F-1, J-1, and M-1 visa students |
| Requirements | A valid passport, valid I-20 or DS-2019, an I-94 card or electronic I-94 notated "F-1 D/S" or "J-1 D/S", proof of identity, work-authorized immigration status, proof of a job offer/employment eligibility, and an employment verification letter from the institution |
| Application process | Online or in-person submission at the nearest Social Security office |
| Time taken | 2-6 weeks |
| Documents required | Passport, proof of ID, age, and lawful resident status, letters from the DSO and employer, Form I-20, Form SS-5 FS, and other school-issued letters |
| SSN usage | Reporting income, paying taxes, opening phone, utility, or bank accounts |
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What You'll Learn
Eligibility requirements for an SSN
International students can apply for a Social Security Number (SSN) as long as they are on an F-1 or M-1 visa and have a job lined up, even if it is part-time or on-campus work. The SSN is issued by the U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA) based on an individual's eligibility to work in the United States.
To apply for an SSN, you must first secure a job or internship in the U.S. and obtain an employment verification letter from your institution. You can then start the application process online at www.ssa.gov/ssnumber or www.ssa.gov/number-card. You will need to present your original proof of ID, age, and lawful resident status, as well as any letters from the DSO and employer, within 45 days of the online submission. After 45 days, the entered information will be purged.
If you are a J-1 student, student intern, or international visitor, you must provide a letter from your sponsor on letterhead with an original signature that authorizes your employment.
It typically takes two to four weeks to process and issue an SSN, so it is recommended that international students initiate the application process well before their intended job start date to ensure timely receipt.
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Documents required for an SSN
International students can apply for a Social Security Number (SSN) as long as they have a job lined up, even if it is part-time or on-campus work. The SSN application process can be initiated online or in person.
- Passport: A valid passport is a must-have document when applying for an SSN as a foreigner.
- Proof of identity, age, and lawful resident status: Applicants must present their original, current proof of identity, age, and lawful resident status. Immigration documents can prove authorization to work in the United States.
- Employment verification letter: International students must obtain an employment verification letter from their institution, which covers on-campus employment, CPT, or OPT.
- Sponsor letter: J-1 students, student interns, or international visitors must provide a letter from their sponsor on letterhead with an original signature authorizing their employment.
- DSO and employer letters: Depending on the situation, letters from the Designated School Official (DSO) and employer may be required.
- EAD card: J-2 dependents with employment authorization will need to provide their Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card.
It is important to note that the specific documents required may vary, and it is recommended to bring all relevant documents to prove eligibility.
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Online application process
International students can apply for a Social Security Number (SSN) online. The SSN is a 9-digit identifier issued by the U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA) to individuals with employment or tax reporting requirements.
To apply for an SSN online, you must first enter your details at www.ssa.gov/number-card. You can then use the online application to schedule an appointment. Within 45 days of your online submission, you must present your original, current proof of age, identity, and lawful resident status to your local SSA office. After 45 days, the entered information will be purged.
To be eligible to apply for an SSN as an international student, you must have employment authorization to work in the U.S. When applying for an SSN, you must show proof of a job offer/employment eligibility.
If you are an F-1 student authorized to work in Curricular Practical Training (CPT), you must provide the following documents: Form I-20, a Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status or (DSO) letter, and an I-94 card or electronic I-94 notated "F-1 D/S". F-1 students must also provide evidence of lawful F-1 employment, such as an on-campus job or authorization for CPT or Optional Practical Training (OPT). If you are in F-1 status and do not have lawful F-1 employment, you are ineligible to apply for an SSN.
If you are a J-1 student, you must provide evidence of employment and be in valid J-1 status, registered for a full course of study, and have a Social Security letter from your sponsor. J-2 dependents with employment authorization will need to have the above documents, plus their EAD card, in order to apply for an SSN.
If you are a nonresident alien with authorization to work in the U.S., you may be eligible for an SSN. This is common for those on a J-1 or H-1B visa.
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In-person application process
International students can apply for a Social Security Number (SSN) in person at their local Social Security Administration office. This application process should be completed within 45 days of submitting the online application.
Firstly, students must complete the social security application online. This can be done by visiting www.ssa.gov/number-card and entering your details. Students can then use the online application to schedule an appointment.
When visiting the Social Security Administration office, students must bring their original, current proof of age, identity, and lawful resident status. This includes a valid passport, which is a must-have document. Students with F-1 or J-1 status must also bring letters from the DSO and employer, if applicable. J-1 students, student interns, or international visitors must provide a letter from their sponsor on letterhead with an original signature authorising their employment.
Students with on-campus jobs must also bring their ISS On-Campus Employment Authorization/SSN Eligibility Letter, while those with off-campus jobs must bring an employment offer letter. If you are a new student, it is recommended to wait at least 2-3 weeks from your arrival in the U.S. before requesting an SSN.
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SSN application timeline
International students can apply for a Social Security Number (SSN) as long as they can prove their eligibility. The process can be started online, but students must then present their original documents to their local Social Security Administration office within 45 days. The typical timeline for processing an SSN application and issuing the card is two to four weeks, but it can take up to eight weeks if additional security procedures are necessary.
Online Application
- Start by entering your details at www.ssa.gov/number-card or www.ssa.gov/ssnumber.
- Use the online application to schedule an appointment.
- Ensure you present your original, current proof of age, identity, and lawful resident status to your local Social Security Administration office within 45 days of online submission. After 45 days, the entered information will be purged.
In-Person Submission
- Visit the nearest Social Security office with your confirmation number and required documentation within 45 calendar days of submitting your online application.
- Present your original documents, including proof of identity, age, and work-authorized immigration status (your visa), as well as any school-issued letters.
Post-Application
Once your application has been approved, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will send a Social Security card to the address provided on your application form. The card is typically issued within two to four weeks, but this can take up to eight weeks if additional security procedures are required.
It is important to note that while you can start working without an SSN, you must apply and obtain your SSN within 90 days of starting your job.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you need to have a job or internship to apply for an SSN as an international student. However, you can start working without an SSN, but you must apply and get one within 90 days of starting your job.
You will need to provide proof of identity and work-authorized immigration status. This includes a valid passport, valid I-20 or DS-2019, and an I-94 card. You may also need to provide evidence of lawful employment, such as an on-campus job or authorization for CPT or OPT.
You can apply for an SSN online or in person at a local Social Security Administration office. First, gather all the relevant documents. Then, complete the social security application online and visit your local SSA office to show them your documents in person.
Yes, you can open a bank account without an SSN. However, an SSN is often used for convenience for opening bank accounts. If you are having difficulty opening a bank account without an SSN, you should contact the Office of International Students and Scholars for guidance.
An SSN is a 9-digit identifier issued by the U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). It is used to report an employee's earnings or a student's taxable scholarship benefits. It is also used for tax purposes in the U.S.
