Lana Oconnell
International students in the US are often curious about how long it takes to get a Social Security Number (SSN). While the process of obtaining an SSN may seem daunting, it typically takes two to four weeks to receive one, and the number is valid for life. International students need an SSN primarily to report income and pay taxes while employed in the US.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Time taken to get an SSN | 2-4 weeks or more |
| Time to wait after arriving in the US before applying for an SSN | 2-3 weeks |
| Time taken to get a replacement card | Not specified, but it's free |
| Time taken to get a replacement card if lost or stolen | Not specified, but it's free |
| Time to get an SSN appointment | Not specified, but can be requested online |
| Time taken to get an SSN after getting a job offer | Within 90 days |
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What You'll Learn
Processing time: 2-4 weeks, or 4-6 weeks
International students can apply for an SSN as long as they can prove their eligibility. This includes providing evidence of employment, such as an employment verification letter from their institution, and their original, current proof of age, identity, and lawful resident status.
The Social Security Administration will mail your number and card as soon as all of your immigration information has been verified. This process typically takes around two to four weeks, but some sources state that it can take up to four to six weeks.
It is recommended that international students initiate the SSN application process well before their intended job start date to ensure timely receipt of their SSN. The application can be started online at www.ssa.gov/ssnumber or www.ssa.gov/number-card, and applicants must present their original documents to their local SSA office within 45 days of the online submission. After 45 days, the entered information will be purged.
It is worth noting that you can start working without an SSN, but you must apply and obtain one within 90 days of starting your job. Additionally, while an SSN is essential for setting up phone, utility, or bank accounts in the U.S., it is not required for obtaining a driver's license, cell phone, credit card, insurance, or admission to an academic institution.
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Required documents: Passport, visa, employment letter, etc
The required documents for an international student to obtain a Social Security Number (SSN) in the United States may vary depending on their visa status and other factors. Here is a detailed list of the documents you may need:
Passport
A valid passport is a crucial document for international students seeking an SSN. It serves as proof of identity and is necessary for verifying your legal presence in the United States. Ensure that your passport is up to date and remains valid throughout the application process.
Visa Documents
The specific visa documents required can depend on your visa status. For instance, F-1 students must provide evidence of lawful employment, such as an on-campus job offer or authorization for curricular practical training (CPT) or optional practical training (OPT). J-1 students, on the other hand, must also demonstrate evidence of employment and maintain valid J-1 status, registering for a full course of study.
For F-1 visa holders, this includes a valid I-20 form, which should indicate employment authorization on page 3. Additionally, an I-94 card or electronic I-94, notated with "F-1 D/S," is required. J-1 visa holders should have a similar notation of "J-1 D/S" on their I-94 card or its electronic equivalent.
Employment Letter
An employment letter or offer letter from your prospective employer is typically required. This letter confirms your upcoming or current employment, which is necessary for obtaining an SSN. The specific requirements for this letter may vary depending on the institution, so be sure to check with your school's international student office for the correct format and content.
Employment Authorization Document (EAD) Card
If you are engaged in CPT or OPT, you will need to present an unexpired EAD card along with your other documents. The EAD card authorizes you to work in the United States and is a crucial component of your SSN application.
Social Security Authorization Letter
Some institutions may require you to obtain a Social Security Authorization Letter. This letter is typically requested from your supervisor or the international student office at your institution. It provides additional confirmation of your eligibility for an SSN and can be a vital part of the application process.
It is important to note that the specific documents required can vary, and you should always refer to the guidelines provided by the Social Security Administration and your educational institution. Additionally, while processing times may vary, you can generally expect to receive your SSN within a few weeks to a month after submitting your application and supporting documents.
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Eligibility: F-1, J-1, M-1 visa status
International students with F-1, J-1, or M-1 visa status are eligible to apply for a Social Security Number (SSN). This process requires careful timing, documentation, and in-person verification.
For J-1 visa holders, the process begins before they arrive in the US. They can arrive up to 30 days before their program start date and use this time to apply for an SSN. Once they have a US residential address, they must submit it via a designated website. After this, their visa will be validated within the government SEVIS database within two business days. It is important to wait at least 10 days after arriving in the US and 48 hours after submitting the address for SEVIS validation before applying for an SSN to avoid processing delays.
When applying for an SSN, J-1 visa holders must bring specific documents, including their passport, DS-2019, DS-7002, I-94 record, and sponsorship letter. Obtaining an SSN is crucial for J-1 visa holders to receive compensation from their host company. Even if the program is unpaid, an SSN is beneficial for opening a US bank account, filing taxes, or accessing other services that require identification.
It is important to note that an SSN is valid for life, even if the individual's visa status changes. Therefore, if a person previously received an SSN while on a past J-1 program or visit to the US, they should continue using that same number and should not re-apply in future programs.
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Cost: Free
There is no charge for a Social Security Number (SSN) and card. The Social Security Administration will mail your number and card as soon as all of your immigration information has been verified, which typically takes two to four weeks, but can also take up to six weeks.
You can replace your card for free if it is lost or stolen. However, you are limited to three replacement cards a year and ten during your lifetime. To request a replacement card, complete an Application For A Social Security Card (Form SS-5) and provide the necessary documentation.
International students need an SSN primarily to report income and pay taxes to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) while employed in the U.S. It is also often used for a variety of unofficial purposes, such as opening phone, utility, or bank/credit card accounts.
To apply for an SSN, you need to have a job lined up, but even part-time, on-campus work makes you eligible. You will need to take all your documents to your local Social Security Administration 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. Depending on your situation, you may also need to provide one of the following documents:
- Evidence of employment and valid F-1 employment authorization
- On-campus employment letter from your UW hiring department
- Employment verification letter from your institution
- EAD card
- Proof of age, identity, and lawful resident status
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Where to apply: Online or at a Social Security office
International students can apply for a Social Security Number (SSN) online or in person at a Social Security Administration (SSA) office. The SSA recommends waiting at least two to three weeks after arriving in the US before requesting an SSN.
Applying Online
To apply for an SSN online, students must first complete the SSN application form, Form SS-5. They will then need to gather the relevant documentation, including proof of identity, age, and work-authorized immigration status (visa). The specific documentation required depends on the type of work authorization the student has in the US. For example, F-1 students authorized to work in Curricular Practical Training (CPT) must provide Form I-20 and a Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status or (DSO) letter. J-2 dependents with employment authorization will need an EAD card in addition to the other required documents.
Once the application and documentation are complete, students can submit them online. After submitting the application, students must visit their local SSA office within 45 calendar days to show their documents in person. The SSA will mail the student their SSN and card as soon as all their immigration information has been verified, which can take two to four weeks or more.
Applying in Person
Students can also choose to apply for their SSN in person at their local SSA office. They will need to bring the completed Form SS-5 and all the required documentation with them. The SSA will verify the student's documents and mail their SSN and card once all immigration information has been confirmed.
Timing
It is recommended that international students apply for their SSN as soon as possible, as the processing time can take three to four weeks. Additionally, students should note that they cannot start working before receiving ISS permission, even if their employer allows them to begin without an SSN.
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Frequently asked questions
It takes 2-4 weeks or more to get an SSN.
You will need a valid passport and proof of your identity, age, and lawful resident status. Depending on your situation, you may also need an employment verification letter from your institution, an unexpired Employment Authorization (EAD) card, or a letter from your sponsor.
Yes, as long as you have authorization for on-campus work, CPT, or OPT, you can start working without an SSN. However, you must apply and obtain your SSN within 90 days of starting your job.
An SSN is often used for these purposes, but it is not required. If you are having difficulty opening an account without an SSN, you should contact the Office of International Students and Scholars for guidance.
