EDUCATION
How to get US Social Security number for international students
International students who are authorised to work in the United States can apply for a Social Security number. Here’s what you need to do.
A Social Security Number (SSN) is an important piece of US administrate paperwork that is needed for a whole host of tasks. If you are a US resident, applying for one is pretty. However, if you are a foreign student coming into the country then the process will not be as well known. Some schools use a SSN as identification numbers for students, making having one a necessity.
You won’t be assigned one just to go to college and you must have employment or a job offer that requires you to have an SSN. You must also be authorized to work in the United States, either by having a valid F-1, M-1 or J-1 visa or by being authorised for optional practical training (OPT).
How to get a Social Security Number
You must visit a SSA office in person to apply for an SSN. You can find your nearest SSA office by visiting the website and using the office locator tool.
You will need to fill out an application for an SSN with Form SS-5 and provide supporting documents, such as your passport, I-94 Arrival/Departure Record, and visa documentation. This is the usual application for a Social Security Card.
If you’re an F-1 or M-1 student, you must also show the Social Security Administration (SSA) your Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status, Form I-20. If you’re a J-1 exchange visitor, you must show us your Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status in Form DS-2019.
If you’re an F-1 student and eligible to work on campus, you must provide a letter from your designated school official that:
- Identifies you,
- Confirms your current school status,
- Identifies your employer and the type of work you are, or will be, doing.
Once you have submitted your application and supporting documents, it can take up to four weeks to receive your SSN.