Ibrahim Gardner
International students with F-1 and J-1 visa status are often eligible to apply for a Social Security Number (SSN) in the United States. To apply, students must complete the SSN application form and submit it to their local Social Security Office, along with various documents that establish their age, identity, and alien status. The specific documents required may vary depending on the student's visa type and employment status, but typically include a passport, birth certificate, I-20 form, and I-94 card. Some students may also need an employment authorization letter or confirmation of their student status. It is recommended that students wait at least two to three weeks after arriving in the US before applying for an SSN, and they can expect to receive their SSN within four to six weeks of submitting their application.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Application form | Form SS-5 |
| Application fee | None |
| Documents required | Passport, I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for F-1 student status), I-94 card, evidence of SSN eligibility (e.g., a letter from the on-campus employer addressed to the SSA, a letter confirming F-1 student status), ISS On-Campus Employment Authorization/SSN Eligibility Letter, employment offer letter, documentation for employment authorization, EAD card (for J-2 dependents), Form I-20 (for CPT authorization), unexpired Employment Authorization (EAD) card (for OPT authorization) |
| Processing time | 2-8 weeks |
| Application process | Online or in-person at a Social Security Office |
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What You'll Learn
Passport and birth certificate or previous passport
International students seeking a Social Security Number (SSN) in the United States must carry certain documents with them when they visit a Social Security Office to apply for an SSN. One of the documents required is a valid passport.
A passport is an official government document that certifies the identity and nationality of its holder for the purpose of international travel. It is usually in the form of a small booklet or card. Passports typically contain the holder's name, date of birth, nationality, place of birth, gender, signature, and photograph. Obtaining a passport generally involves submitting an application form, providing proof of citizenship, and paying a fee.
In addition to a valid passport, international students may also need to present their birth certificate when applying for an SSN. A birth certificate is an official document that records an individual's birth. It serves as a vital record of a person's existence and is often used to establish identity and eligibility for various rights and privileges, such as education, employment, and social services. Birth certificates typically include the person's full name, date and place of birth, and the names of their parents.
In the context of obtaining an SSN, a birth certificate can be used as evidence of identity and citizenship. For U.S. citizens, the birth certificate must meet specific requirements, including displaying the official seal or stamp of the issuing city, county, or state, and providing the applicant's full name, date of birth, place of birth, and parents' full names. It is important to note that only physical birth certificates are accepted, and electronic or mobile versions are not considered valid.
In cases where an individual was born outside the United States and obtained U.S. citizenship through their parents, they must submit their foreign birth certificate along with evidence of their parents' U.S. citizenship. Additionally, if there is no U.S. birth certificate on file in the state of birth, applicants may need to provide alternative records, such as early public and private documents, along with a completed Birth Affidavit (Form DS-10).
It is worth noting that the requirements for obtaining an SSN may vary based on the specific circumstances of each international student. Therefore, it is always advisable to refer to the official guidelines provided by the relevant authorities, such as the Social Security Administration, to ensure that all necessary documents are gathered before initiating the application process.
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Form SS-5, Social Security Card Application
International students seeking a Social Security Number (SSN) in the United States must complete Form SS-5, the Social Security Card Application. This form is available free of charge at all Social Security offices or online. The form must be completed and submitted in person at a Social Security office or card center, along with the required documents.
To apply for an SSN, international students should follow these steps:
- Wait at least 2-3 weeks after arriving in the U.S. before initiating the process.
- Obtain the necessary documents, which may include:
- ISS On-Campus Employment Authorization/SSN Eligibility Letter
- I-94 card or a copy of the J-1 admission stamp in the passport, along with a printout of the electronic I-94 information
- Employment offer letter from the department or hiring office
- Valid immigration documents, including a valid passport, I-20 or DS-2019, and an I-94 card or electronic I-94 with specific notations, depending on the student's visa status (e.g., "F-1 D/S" or "J-1 D/S")
- For F-1 students, evidence of lawful employment, such as an on-campus job offer or authorization for curricular practical training (CPT) or optional practical training (OPT)
- For OPT students, an unexpired Employment Authorization (EAD) card
- Visit a local Social Security office or card center to submit the Form SS-5 and present the required documents.
- Allow 4-6 weeks for processing the application and receiving the SSN, although processing times may vary.
It is important to note that simply having an SSN does not authorize an individual to work legally in the U.S. However, if legal authorization to work has been granted, applying for an SSN is typically required. International students should also be mindful of specific recommendations, such as not applying for an SSN more than 30 days before the start of their employment or authorization.
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Evidence of SSN eligibility
International students must provide evidence of their eligibility for an SSN, which includes valid immigration documents and evidence of employment.
Firstly, students must provide valid immigration documents, which include a valid passport, valid I-20 or DS-2019, and an I-94 card or electronic I-94 notated "F-1 D/S" or "J-1 D/S." This proves their status as an international student in the US.
Secondly, evidence of employment eligibility is required. F-1 students must provide evidence of lawful F-1 employment, such as an on-campus job offer letter from their department or authorization for curricular practical training (CPT) or optional practical training (OPT). This evidence confirms their eligibility to work in the US, which is a prerequisite for obtaining an SSN.
J-1 students must also provide evidence of employment and be registered for a full course of study. They need to be in valid J-1 status and may require a Social Security letter from their sponsor if they are under the sponsorship of an external organization. This letter confirms their J-1 visa status and sponsorship.
Additionally, all international students seeking an SSN must obtain valid employment authorization. This can be based on on-campus employment, with a letter from the department confirming the job offer, or off-campus employment authorization. The letter must be printed on department letterhead, signed, and include the job title and other relevant details.
It is important to note that simply having a Social Security Number does not grant authorization to work in the US. However, if an international student has been granted legal authorization to work and is employed, they are required to apply for and obtain an SSN.
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Valid immigration documents
To obtain a Social Security Number (SSN) as an international student in the US, you must provide valid immigration documents. These documents are essential for verifying your identity, visa status, and eligibility to work in the US. Here is a detailed breakdown of the necessary immigration documents:
Passport
A valid passport is a fundamental requirement for international students seeking an SSN in the US. Your passport must be issued by your country of citizenship and remain valid throughout your stay in the US. Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond both the date you apply for your visa and your planned entry into the US. It is important to maintain the validity of your passport during your stay. If your passport is lost or stolen, promptly notify your country's embassy or consulate, as well as the relevant university offices, such as the Office of International Services (OIS) or Office of International Students and Scholars (OISS).
Form I-20
The I-20 form is a crucial document for F-1 visa holders. It is issued through the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) and confirms your admission to a full-time, in-person academic program. The I-20 includes important biographic information, funding details, and specifics about your academic program. It is necessary to present this form when applying for your F-1 visa at a US Embassy or Consulate abroad and when paying the required SEVIS (I-901) fee. Remember to keep all versions of your I-20 forms, as they may be needed for future immigration applications. Additionally, always carry a printed copy of your I-20 when entering the US in F-1 status.
Form DS-2019
If you are a J-1 student or scholar, you will need to provide Form DS-2019. This form is similar to Form I-20 and contains information about your J-1 visa status and program details.
Form I-94
The I-94 form is essential for verifying your entry into the US. You can access your I-94 electronically by visiting the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) I-94 website and completing the online form using information from your passport. Ensure that the 'Class of Admission' is F-1 or J-1, and the 'Admit until Date' is 'D/S' (Duration of Status). Download, print, and save a copy of your I-94 each time you enter the US. F-1 regulations mandate that you carry a printed copy of your I-94 at all times.
Employment Authorization Documents
If you are engaged in Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT), you must provide additional documentation. For CPT, your I-20 form must have an authorization for CPT printed on page 3. If you are on OPT, you will need an unexpired Employment Authorization (EAD) card. These documents demonstrate that you have been authorized to work in the US as part of your practical training or optional practical training program.
It is important to note that the requirements for valid immigration documents may vary depending on your specific situation and visa type. Always refer to official sources, such as university international student offices and government websites, for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding the necessary documents for obtaining an SSN as an international student in the US.
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On-campus employment authorisation
International students seeking on-campus employment authorisation and a Social Security Number (SSN) in the United States need to provide certain documents to the Social Security Administration (SSA). The specific requirements may vary depending on the student's visa status, sponsoring organisation, and other factors. Here is a detailed guide on the documents required for on-campus employment authorisation:
F-1 Students:
F-1 students with on-campus employment offers must provide evidence of lawful F-1 employment authorisation. This includes obtaining a letter from the department confirming the job offer. The letter must be printed on department letterhead, signed by the hiring department, and include details such as the job title. Additionally, F-1 students must present valid immigration documents, including a passport, I-20 form, and an I-94 card or electronic I-94 printout with the notation "F-1 D/S". If engaged in CPT, the I-20 form must explicitly authorise CPT. For OPT, an unexpired Employment Authorisation (EAD) card is necessary.
J-1 Students:
J-1 students require valid immigration documents, including a passport, DS-2019 form, and an I-94 card or electronic I-94 printout with the notation "J-1 D/S". Those with official on-campus employment offers must provide evidence of their job offer letter. J-1 students sponsored by an external organisation like IIE, LASPAU, or AMIDEAST need a Social Security Authorisation Letter from their sponsor. However, J-1 Short-Term Scholars, J-1 Research Scholars, and J-1 Professors do not need SSN authorisation letters.
Additional Considerations:
It is recommended to wait at least two to three weeks after arriving in the US before applying for an SSN. Additionally, students should not apply for an SSN more than 30 days before their employment start date. After submitting the online application, individuals must visit their local SSA office within 45 calendar days to present their confirmation number and required documentation. The SSA will then mail the Social Security card and number within two to six weeks, depending on processing times.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need to provide original documents that prove your identity, immigration status, and work eligibility. This includes a valid passport, I-20 or DS-2019 form, and an I-94 card or printout. If you are an F-1 student with work authorization, you will also need an I-766 work permit.
First, you must complete the social security application online or using Form SS-5 FS. Then, visit your local Social Security Administration office with your confirmation number and required documentation. Your documents will be reviewed by an SSA examiner, and you will receive your SSN within 4-6 weeks.
Yes, you will need a job to apply for an SSN. Even part-time, on-campus work makes you eligible. However, simply having an SSN does not grant you legal authorization to work.
It is recommended that you do not apply more than 30 days before starting your employment or the beginning date on your EAD card. You should also wait at least 2-3 weeks after arriving in the US before requesting an SSN.
If you are having difficulties opening a bank or other types of accounts due to not having an SSN, you can contact the Office of International Students and Scholars for assistance.
