Social Security for J-1 Visa Holders

Social Security Numbers are used to identify you within the government tax and pension system.

When you go to the Social Security Office to apply for a number, bring the following:

  • A letter from IES that verifies your J-1 status. You can request this letter from: Request a Social Security Letter. The letter will be ready in three business days.
  • Your passport, original and copy. It must be at least one year old or you will need a second form of photo ID in English. (An official TOEFL score report at least one year old works well.)
  • I-94, original and copy.
  • DS-2019, original and copy.
  • Student or faculty ID card.

 

**You must wait at least 10 business days after entering the U.S. to apply for a SSN.

**If you are applying for an SSN based on CPT or on-campus employment you may not apply more than 30 days prior to the start date indicated on your offer letter.

**If you are applying for an SSN based on off-campus employment which requires USCIS to issue an EAD card, you may not apply prior to the start date on your EAD card.

 

When you apply for an SSN, ask the service representative to give you a receipt for your application. Your department may place you on payroll before you receive the card if you have the receipt. After you turn in your application to a social security representative, your documents will be returned to you. You will receive your SSN card by mail several weeks later.

Social Security Administration Office Locations

Tips for completing Social Security Card Application

#2. Mailing Address- Use you local address

#3. Citizenship- check "Legal Alien Allowed to Work"

#8. A. Mother's Maiden Name- This is the name of your mother's given name before she was married (if different). B. Mother's Social Security Number- If your mother ever lived in the U.S. and had a Social Security Number, put it here. If not leave this blank.

#9. A. Father's Name- Your father's family name B. Father's Social Security Number- If your father ever lived in the U.S. and had a Social Security Number, put it here. If not leave this blank.