Social Security Number

If you are eligible and authorized to work in the United States, you will need to have a Social Security Number (SSN). The SSN is used to report your wages to the government and to determine eligibility for Social Security benefits. You do not need an SSN to enroll in a college or school. Please note that as an international visitor, you are not able to apply for a Social Security number online unless you are a U.S. citizen.

Important: NEVER share the Social Security number with someone else or send by email, scan, phone, or etc. This may result in identity theft including theft of financial records. You must keep your SSN confidential. The Social Security Administration has issued a fact sheet explaining the importance of SSN confidentiality. Please review Identity Theft and Your Social Security Number.

What to know before applying for a Social Security number:

• If you are eligible to apply for a SSN and newly arrived to the United States, you MUST wait 10 days after your entry to the U.S., and after you have completed a check-in with our office before applying. Waiting will help ensure the Social Security Administration can verify your immigration status with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Otherwise, issues and delays may occur during the verification process.
• All documents must be either originals or copies certified by the issuing agency. The Social Security Administration (SSA) does not accept photocopies or notarized copies of documents. SSA also does not accept a receipt showing you applied for the document.