Applying for Social Security Numbers (SSN)

A Social Security card is mandatory for all individuals working in the U.S., including non-immigrants. This card contains your unique Social Security Number (SSN), which you will retain for life. The SSN is essential for employment and tax purposes. Please note that a Social Security card does not serve as a work permit. For more information, visit the Social Security Administration’s website http://www.ssa.gov/.

Expand FAQ List

  • Several visa classifications allows employment-based visa holders to work in the United States and be eligible to apply for a Social Security Number. Visit the Social Security website for a comprehensive list of eligible statuses https://www.ssa.gov/people/immigrants/visa.html. 

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    Submitting applications prematurely may result in rejection or delays beyond the standard processing time. Students and visiting scholars must be physically present in the U.S. to apply for a Social Security Number (SSN). The Social Security Administration (SSA) must verify your legal entry into the U.S. before issuing an SSN. We recommend waiting 10 business days before applying.

    Step 1: Prepare Your Application Documents

    Prepare the list of documents you will need to establish your immigration status and employment eligibility. The documents you need will depend on your status.

    Required Documents for All Applicants

    • Valid, unexpired passport
    • Visa stamp
    • Print-out of your Form I-94;
    • Original birth certificate (recommended)

    Additional Required Documents Based on Status (All Documents Must Be Physical)

    StatusAdditional Documents
    H-1BCopy of your I-797 H-1B approval notice
    J-1 Research Scholar, Professor, or Short-Term ScholarOffer/invitation letter from your academic department

    Step 2: Schedule Your Appointment Online

    Go to the Online Social Security Number Application at https://secure.ssa.gov/ossnap/public/landingOSsnap. If this is your first time applying for an SSN, indicate that you are applying for the first time. Complete and submit the online form to schedule your appointment, and you should receive a confirmation email. 

    Step 3: Attend Your Appointment

    Ensure you have all the required documents for your appointment as outlined in Step 1. Arrive early with all necessary documentation. You should receive an automated text message approximately 30 minutes before your appointment, sent to the phone number you provided when scheduling your appointment online. Check in using the link in the text message to receive a ticket number. When your number is called, meet with the SSA staff. After they successfully verify your identity and eligibility for an SSN, you will receive a receipt confirming the address where your SSN will be sent. Please ensure this address is accurate.

    To find the list of local Social Security Administration offices visit https://www.ssa.gov/locator/.