The Social Security number (SSN) is a nine-digit number issued by the U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). It serves as a crucial identifier for individuals in the United States, primarily used for tracking earnings and Social Security benefits. For international students (holding F or M visas) authorized to work in the U.S. by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), obtaining an SSN is a necessary step to legally work and reside in the country.
Essentially, your SSN is your personal account number with the U.S. government for social security purposes. The SSA uses this number to keep a record of your earnings throughout your working life in the United States. This record is vital as it determines your eligibility for social security benefits in the future, and it’s also used for general identification purposes in various contexts within the U.S. system.
It’s important to note that not every international student is eligible for an SSN. Eligibility hinges on whether you have permission to work in the United States. If you are an F or M student who has been granted employment authorization by USCIS, then you are required to apply for and receive an SSN.
For those students or dependents who are not eligible for an SSN but receive non-wage income—such as scholarships, grants, stock interest, or lottery winnings—they must apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. You can find more detailed information about this on resources like “What is an ITIN?.”
Steps to Obtain a Social Security Number for International Students
If you are an international student and need to get an SSN to work in the United States, it’s essential to follow a specific set of steps to ensure a smooth application process. Here is a detailed guide:
1. Consult with Your Designated School Official (DSO)
Your first step should always be to discuss your employment plans with your Designated School Official (DSO). DSOs are experts in regulations and requirements for F and M students. They can provide you with essential guidance, confirm your eligibility to work, and thus, your eligibility to apply for an SSN. Your DSO will ensure you understand all the necessary rules and are on the right track before you proceed with your application.
2. Verify Your Active SEVIS Status
Before you apply for an SSN, it is critical to confirm that your record in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) is in “Active” status. Your SEVIS record must be active for at least two business days before you can apply for an SSN. If your SEVIS status is anything other than “Active,” your SSN application will likely be rejected. You can learn more about SEVIS and its importance by visiting resources explaining “SEVIS“.
3. Wait 10 Days After U.S. Entry for System Updates
After arriving in the United States, you need to wait for at least 10 days before applying for your SSN. This waiting period is crucial because it allows sufficient time for your arrival information to be updated across all relevant government systems. The SSA uses the Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) program to verify your immigration status and eligibility for an SSN. This delay ensures that when SSA checks your details through SAVE, your arrival information is correctly registered and accessible. To monitor the progress of your verification, you can use the SAVE Case Check system online, as detailed in “Checking Your SAVE Case Status“.
4. Visit Your Local SSA Office to Apply
To officially apply for your Social Security card, you must visit your local SSA office in person. You can locate the nearest office by using the SSA office locator. When you go to the SSA office, be prepared to present original documents that prove your age, identity, and work-authorized immigration status. It’s vital to ensure that all your documents, especially those proving immigration status and work authorization, are unexpired. For a comprehensive list of required documents, refer to the SSA website.
Social Security Numbers and Driver’s Licenses: What’s the Connection?
In many U.S. states, possessing an SSN or proof of SSN application is a prerequisite for obtaining a driver’s license, even for dependents. For international students or their dependents who are not eligible to work but still need a driver’s license, there’s a specific procedure. You must first apply for an SSN at your local SSA office. If you are indeed ineligible for an SSN, the SSA will issue you Form SSA-L676, “Refusal to Process SSN Application.” This document serves as proof to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) that you attempted to get an SSN but were not eligible, allowing you to proceed with your driver’s license application in some states. For more detailed information, you should visit “Driving in the States” and consult with your DSO for state-specific advice.
Understanding what a Social Security Number is and how to obtain one is a fundamental step for international students planning to work in the United States. By following these steps and staying informed, you can navigate the process effectively and ensure you comply with all U.S. regulations.
