Your Social Security number is used for your job, taxes, credit and plenty of paperwork. It’s tied to permission to work, so not every newcomer can get one right away.
Who can apply
- Lawful permanent residents
- People with work visas, like H-1B, L-1 or O-1
- People with an employment authorization document (EAD)
- F-1 students with an on-campus job offer or approved CPT or OPT
- J-1 exchange visitors authorized to work
Documents to bring
- Completed Form SS-5
- Passport with visa
- I-94 record
- Proof of work authorization (EAD, I-20 and DSO letter, DS-2019, etc.)
- For students: job offer letter
Timing
Many Social Security offices recommend waiting around 10 days after you arrive so your immigration record can be verified. Some immigrants can request an SSN as part of their visa or green card process. After you apply, the card usually arrives by mail within a few weeks.
Not eligible?: If you need to file a US tax return but can’t get an SSN, you may need an ITIN from the IRS.
