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SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER

Social Security numbers are used to report your earnings to the U.S. government.  Anyone working and earning income in the United States must apply for a social security number. 

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Upon Arrival

It is important to wait at least 10 days after your SEVIS record has been validated before applying for an SSN to allow your information time to make it into the Social Security database.   If you apply too soon, your file will be reviewed manually which can take several months.  Please review the Foreign Workers and Social Security Numbers pamphlet for more information regarding Social Security Number (SSN).

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Applying for Social Security Number

To apply for a Social Security Number, you will need to begin the SS Application online (select “Apply Now”) complete the form and submit.  Then visit a Social Security Administration Office in person to complete your application. 

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Please refer to the following tips as you complete your application:

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  • If you do not have a permanent address, use your host employer’s address as your mailing address.   Please make certain you include instructions to the mail where to deliver your card, for example (if you do not know – ask your manager): 

Host Employer Name

Attention: Human Resources

​Street Address

City, State, Zip Code

  • For the question regarding the documentation you will provide, you should select Foreign Passport, I-94 with Unexpired Foreign Passport, DS-2019 Certificate of Eligibility, and Other.

  • Be sure to print and save the online control number page once you complete the online application.

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After you submit your online request, you must visit your local SSA office with your documentation within 45 calendar days. Use the Social Security Office Locator to find the closest office. 

 

Documents Needed to Apply

When applying for a Social Security Number, please bring the following items with you: 

 

When you apply for your Social Security Number, you will receive a receipt letter. Make a copy of it for your personal records, and give the original receipt to your host employer. The receipt is proof that you have applied for a Social Security number and will allow you to begin to be paid by your host employer, even before you receive your number. 

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Note:  Call or check the office’s website in advance to see whether you will need an appointment and confirm their hours. Most offices do not require that you make an appointment, but calling to schedule an appointment in advance may help you to avoid long wait times. Be sure to also visit this page to ensure that your office is not temporarily closed or providing service by advance appointment only. 

It may take up to 6 weeks for your Social Security Card to arrive in the mail. You are allowed to begin training and be paid while you are waiting for your card. If your host employer has any questions about paying you before your number arrives, please ask them to contact American Journey.

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Additional Information

Your Social Security number is unique to you and will never expire. Should you enter the U.S. on a future work or study program, your Social Security number would remain valid, so please keep your number and card in a safe place.

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Protect your personal ID and confidential information. Your Social Security number is yours alone. Do not allow others to use your number. Record your number in a safe place in case your card is lost or stolen. Protect both your card and your number to prevent misuse.

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