Your Social Security Card
Applying for Social Security
Social Security numbers are assigned to people authorized to work in the United States and are used to report wages to the government and file tax returns.
- Your Social Security number is permanent. Keep your card and number in a safe place, as it remains valid for life and is unique to you.
- Protect your information. Do not let others use your Social Security number. It’s also a good idea to record your number in a safe place in case the card is lost or stolen.
- Everyone should apply for a SSN. Getting a SSN is required if you will be paid by your host employer. Even if you don’t receive payment in the U.S., a SSN may be needed to open a bank account, rent an apartment, or apply for a U.S. driver’s license.
To apply for a Social Security number (SSN), you must be in the U.S. and have an active SEVIS record. You will need to begin the application online, and then visit a Social Security Administration Office in person to complete your application.
5-Step Process
Review the instructional video and follow the steps below to get your Social Security card:
Step 1
Activate Your SEVIS Record
Step 2
Submit Your Application
Step 3
Prepare Your Documents
Step 4
Visit Local SSA Office
Step 5
Share Receipt Letter
Before applying for a Social Security number, you will need to register your arrival and U.S. address through your InterExchange dashboard to activate your SEVIS record. Wait at least 5 business days after activation to apply to ensure your information has been updated in the Social Security database.
Then visit the Social Security Number and Card webpage and submit your application by selecting Get Started under Apply for a Social Security Number. Please refer to the following tips as you complete your application:
- If you have not yet arranged permanent housing, use your host employer’s address as your mailing address.
- For the question regarding the documentation you will provide, you should select Foreign Passport, I-94 with Unexpired Foreign Passport, DS-2019 Certificate of Eligibility, and Other.
- Be sure to print and save the online control number page once you complete the online application.
When applying for a Social Security Number, you will need the following documents. You must bring current (not expired) and original documents or copies certified by the agency that issued them, not photocopies or notarized copies.
- Your passport, including your J-1 Visa
- Your printed DS-2019 Form with embassy signature
- Your I-94 Arrival/Departure printout or card (choose “Get most recent I-94” on the website)
- The ‘Dear Social Security Officer’ letter from InterExchange Career Training USA
- Printed online control number from your Social Security application
After you submit your online request and gather your documents, you must visit your local Social Security Office with your documentation within 45 calendar days. Use the Social Security Office Locator to find the closest office.
- Many Social Security offices now require you to make an appointment in advance. You will need to call your local office to inquire about appointment availability.
- They are generally open Monday through Friday during normal business hours, but please refer to the website for details. You should be prepared for long lines, especially during the busiest times: Mondays, the morning after a Federal holiday, the first week of the month, and any day during lunchtime.
- Also, be sure to visit this page to ensure that your office is not temporarily closed or providing service by telephone only.
When you apply for your Social Security number, you will receive a receipt letter. Make a copy of it for your personal records, and give the original receipt to your host organization. The receipt is proof that you have applied for a Social Security number and will allow you to begin to be paid by your host, even before you receive your number.
After you apply, it may take up to 6 weeks for your Social Security Card to arrive in the mail — although, processing times can fluctuate based on current SSA workload and operational changes. You are allowed to intern or train and be paid while you are waiting for your card. If your host organization has any questions or concerns about paying you before your number arrives, please refer them to our Host Employer Resources or contact InterExchange at 1.800.621.1202.
After applying for your Social Security number, we recommend calling the Social Security office after 7-10 days to check the status. If you visit the office, bring your original documents and application receipt. Checking early can prevent delays and may allow you to get your number before the card arrives by mail.
- Social Security Administration: 1.800.772.1213 (questions or lost cards)
- IRS Contact: 1.800.829.4933
- Employer Responsibilities When Hiring Foreign Workers
- International Students And Social Security Numbers
- Foreign Workers and Social Security Numbers pamphlet