A Guide for Immigrants: How to Get a U.S. Social Security Number
Immigrants can apply for a Social Security number along with their immigration visa application. Obtaining an SSN is necessary to work in the United States.
A Social Security number (SSN) is issued to U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, and some (working) non-immigrants. The number is administered by the Social Security Administration to keep track of employment status for Social Security benefits. Nowadays, an SSN is also used for various identification purposes on taxes, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services forms, and more.
Continue reading to learn more about how Social Security numbers work in the United States, why you need one, and what you need to apply as an immigrant.
How Do U.S. Social Security Numbers Work?
In the United States, a social security number (SSN) is a nine-digit identification number administered to U.S. citizens, non-immigrant working residents, and permanent residents. Your Social Security number is important because you need it to get a job, collect Social Security benefits, and even receive certain government services. A physical Social Security card displaying your SSN is administered, but in most cases, you simply need to know your number.
3 Types of Social Security Cards
The first type of Social Security Card shows your name as well as your social security number. This card allows you to work without restriction and is given to U.S. citizens as well as anyone lawfully admitted to the Country on a permanent basis.
The second type of card comes with a restriction stating, “Valid for work only with DHS authorization. This card is administered to people in the Country on a temporary basis who also have DHS authorization to work.
The third type of card is one that shows your name and Social Security number, but is not valid for employment. This card is given to those that need a number because of federal law requiring a Social Security number to get a benefit or service.
What Information do You Need to Apply for a SSN as an Immigrant?
Any U.S. citizens as well as temporary workers and anyone on a non-immigrant working visa can get a social security number. With that said, there are some documents you will need to provide in order to get one as an immigrant. Legal immigrants need to provide two original documents that prove identity, immigration status, age, and work eligibility. Immigrants are also required to submit an application for a Social Security Card otherwise known as Form SS-5.
You can learn more about applying for your Social Security Number as an Immigrant on the Social Security Administration website
Examples of Original Documents to Prove Eligibility
Work Permit
Immigrant Visa
Employment Authorization Documents
I-94 Arrival/Departure Records
Birth Certificate
Passport
How to Apply for a Social Security Number as an Immigrant
Those completing the immigration process who are also over the age of 18, can apply for an SSN at the same time as their immigrant visa. In this case, the Department of State uses the same information on your immigrant visa application as on your SSN application. If you utilize this option and apply along with your immigrant visa, you will not need to submit an additional application or visit the Social Security office to pick up your card.
You may also be able to apply for a Social Security Number when you apply for employment authorization. In this case, you need to file Form I-765 with the U.S.Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Once the application process is complete, you can expect your social security card to arrive at your selected mailing address around three weeks after you arrive in the U.S.
What to Do After You Get Your SSN Number & Card
Applying for your Social Security number is a vital step in preparing yourself for immigration to the United States. Once you have your card, keep it in a safe place as you may need it in the future. If you don’t receive your card in the mail, you will need to contact the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213. Additionally, if your card happens to get lost, stolen, or destroyed, you can apply for a free replacement.
The next step is preparing your finances and credit for the U.S. economic system. Check out the Upwardli Resource Center for helpful articles and guides.
