Social Security Numbers

International Services Office

A Social Security Number (SSN) is the closest thing we have to a national identification number. If you have never obtained an SSN in the U.S., you may need to obtain one for salary, tax, credit history or banking purposes. You cannot apply for an SSN until 10 days after you have checked in with the ISO. You will be given information and instructions on how to do this during your orientation at the ISO. In CA, you must have an SSN before you can apply for a driver’s license.

An SSN is valid for life. If you have previously had an SSN but do not have the card or remember the number, you will need to apply for a duplicate card.

A Social Security Number (SSN) is used to report wages to the government and to determine eligibility for Social Security benefits.  An SSN is only issued to people who have a visa status that allows for employment in the U.S. An SSN is not issued for purposes of general identification (driver's licenses, tax returns, bank accounts, phone service, etc.).

Applying for a Social Security Number

In general, only noncitizens who have permission to work from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) can apply for an SSN. There is no cost to apply.

To apply:

  • Complete an Application For A Social Security Card (Form SS-5).
  • Prepare required documentation proving immigration status, work eligibility, age and identity (see list below).
  • Locate the Social Security office nearest you and call to confirm their hours and whether you need an appointment or not.
  • When you go to Social Security, bring the completed application and original documents listed below. Anyone requesting an SSN must appear in person at the SSA.

 

Documents Proving Immigration Status—All Documents Must Be Originals 

  1. Passport
  2. I-94 record printed from https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov
  3. Visa document
    • If J-1 status: DS-2019, Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status
    • If F-1 status: I-20, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status
    • If H-1B status: I-797 approval notice
  4. If J-1: Letter of invitation/job offer (recommended)
  5. If F-1: Letter issued by International Services Office to the SS Administration
  6. If H-1B: Verification of Employment letter (issued by HR)

  1. Please Note: If you are in F-1 or J-1 visa status, you must be registered/validated in SEVIS prior to applying for an SSN.  SEVIS registration/validation will occur after your check in meeting with your international student or scholar advisor.

 

Processing Times

After submitting an SSN application, it can take about 2-4 weeks to receive the Social Security card at the mailing address provided on the application. It is important that you provide a valid mailing address on the SSN application. An incomplete or incorrect address will cause delivery issues and result in return of your card to the SSA.

After the SSN Is Issued

  • Make sure to report your Social Security number to Human Resources as soon as you receive it by either presenting the card in person to Human Resources or contacting the ISO for instructions on how to upload it securely from your computer on OneDrive.  In California, you may go to the front desk of the Administration Building to show your new SSN card.  Please do not ever send your social security number or a copy of your SS card to anyone by email, as it is not secure. 
  • Keep your SS card in a safe place.
  • Do not carry your SS card with you or put it in your wallet.
  • Do not laminate your SS card.

Protect your identity. Be careful about sharing your SSN. If asked for the number, you should ask why your number is needed, how it will be used and what will happen if you refuse to provide it. Click here for more information.