How and when to apply for a SSN, and the documents you'll need to take with you
First, do you already have a SSN from a previous program in the US?
If you do, do NOT apply for a new SSN; use your existing SSN. If you lost your SSN card and you do not know your Social Security Number, see this Social Security Administration article for instructions: https://blog.ssa.gov/so-youve-lost-your-social-security-card/
If you have never applied for a SSN before, follow these instructions:
- Arrive to the US! You cannot apply for a SSN until you are in the US.
- Validate your program. You cannot apply for a SSN until your program is validated in SEVIS.
- To validate, you must update ICLS with your arrival date/time, address, and phone number. ICLS will update SEVIS with these details, then you'll receive a confirmation email saying your program is validated and your SEVIS status is Active.
- Wait a minimum of 3 business days. It takes a few days for the Social Security Administration's (SSA) system to catch up with SEVIS.
- If you apply too soon, your application for a SSN may get delayed or never arrive.
- Print your sponsor letter: Letter for Social Security Number Application
- Print your I-94 Number. Go to https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov/I94/#/home#section and click on “Get Most Recent I-94.” Then click, “I acknowledge and agree” to continue. Enter your information.
- If your I-94 arrival number is not found, it is often a name error. This is not your fault. Try entering your name differently. This is most common with participants who have multiple first names, last names, or middle names. If you cannot figure it out, contact ICLS for help.
- Locate the nearest SSA office to make an appointment and apply online. You can complete the application online, but you will still need to take that application and apply for your SSN in person at the nearest SSA office.
- You can search for a Social Security Office near you here: https://secure.ssa.gov/ICON/main.jsp.
- Complete a paper application or an online application here: https://www.ssa.gov/number-card/request-number-first-time
- Take these documents with you to your SSN appointment:
- SSN Letter from your sponsor
- DS-2019
- DS-7002
- Passport
- I-94 Arrival/Departure Record Number
- Your SSN application (if you completed it ahead of time)
Once you've had your appointment, you should receive your card in approximately 2-4 weeks.
Don't forget to bring all your documents home with you after your appointment! Don't leave them there by accident!
Do not share your SSN! Your SSN should NOT be emailed or shared with people other than your host and possibly your bank or housing provider for credit check purposes. If someone is asking you for your SSN and you're unsure if you should provide it, contact ICLS for guidance. Your SSN is directly tied to you, is confidential, and is used to do background checks and credit history checks. Keep it in a safe, secure place.
Please do not hesitate to contact ICLS for any questions or concerns!