
The answer is that you can definitely apply for a social security number (SSN
Social Security number
In the United States, a Social Security number is a nine-digit number issued to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and temporary residents under section 205c of the Social Security Act, codified as 42 U.S.C. § 405(c. The number is issued to an individual by the Social Security Ad…
Can F-1 students get a Social Security number?
The answer is that you can definitely apply for a social security number (SSN) as an F-1 or M-1 visa student. The process of applying for an SSN may sound complicated and tedious; however, if you read this carefully, you can apply and get your SSN without wasting time and energy.
Can international students with F1 visa work in the US?
As an international student attending school in the United States on an F1 Visa, you are eligible to work in the US. However, that does not mean you’ll be eligible for a Social Security Number (SSN) and you may be required to obtain an ITIN instead.
Can an international student get a Social Security number?
Social Security Number for international students: In this guide, you will learn how to apply for a social security number (SSN) as an F1 visa or J1 visa international student. You will also learn how to obtain an SSN Letter of Ineligibility if you’re unable to obtain an SSN as an F1 or J1 visa non-immigrant.
Why do F and M students need an SSN?
SSA uses SSNs to report wages to the government, track Social Security benefits and for other identification purposes. Every F and M student who U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) grants employment authorization to needs an SSN.

Can F-1 visa students get a SSN?
If you have F-1 visa status and have found a job (on-campus or off-campus), you are eligible to apply for a SSN.
How can an international student get a SSN?
To get a SSN, you are required to apply in person at a Social Security Administration office. You should carry the original documents proving your...
Can I work in the US without a Social Security Number?
You can start working without a SSN, but you'll have to apply and get a SSN within 90 days of starting your job.
How to get a SSN as a foreigner?
1. Prove your identity. A valid passport is definitely the must-have document when you apply for an SSN as a foreigner. In addition, depending on your situation, you may also need to provide one of the following documents: 2. Prove your immigration status. If you are an F-1 or M-1 student, you must bring your I-20.
Do I need an I-20 to work on campus?
If you are an F-1 student and are eligible to work on campus, you must have: If you are an F-1 student and eligible to work in curricular practical training, you must have your I-20 with the employment page completed and signed by your designated school official.
Do I need an I-20 for curricular practical training?
If you are an F-1 student and eligible to work in curricular practical training, you must have your I-20 with the employment page completed and signed by your designated school official . If you are an F-1 student and have a work permit I-766, you must bring it.
What is a social security number?
Social Security numbers generally are assigned to people who are authorized to work in the United States. Social Security numbers are used to report your wages to the government and to determine eligibility for Social Security benefits. Social Security will not assign a number to you just to enroll in a college or school.
How to prove immigration status?
To prove your immigration status, you must show us a current admission stamp in your unexpired foreign passport and
Do you need a work permit for F-1?
If you’re an F-1 or M-1 student and have a work permit (Form I-766) from the DHS, you must present it .
What is the purpose of a F-1 student's social security number?
A Social Security Number (SSN) is a number assigned by the US government to track your income levels and determine your correct rate of tax withholding. It is required by the office of Human Resources in order to pay you for any Curricular Practical Training (CPT) work you do.
How long does it take to get a Social Security card?
You will receive the Social Security Card in the mail approximately 2 weeks after you apply for it in person.
Where to apply for SSN in Boston?
If you are eligible to apply for an SSN, you must follow the detailed directions below and you will apply at any of the SSN Offices in Boston . We highly recommend you apply at the SSN Office on Causeway St. (near North Station green line stop) as they are used to working with F-1 International Students.
When will the ISA contact you?
The ISA will contact you when both letters are ready to pick-up
Do international students have to file taxes?
It is true that the United States government requires every international student and scholar to file federal tax documents whether or not you earned money. If you have a social security number you can use this when you fill out the forms. If you do not have one, you will be assigned an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number instead.
What is the purpose of an F-1 student?
F-1 Employment and Social Security. As an F-1 international student, your primary purpose in the U.S. must be to study and complete your academic program. However, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) allows F-1 students certain types of work authorization that can be used during or after their studies.
What is work authorization for F-1 students?
Work authorization is an optional, added benefit for students who are complying with all immigration regulations. On-campus employment allows F-1 international students to work on campus, and is most often used for students working at a UTEP department or office.
What is a SSN card?
A Social Security Number (SSN) allows you to legally work and be paid in the U.S. Your SSN is printed on a small Social Security Card that is issued by the Social Security Administration (SSA).
Can you work in multiple positions on campus?
Students may work in multiple positions on campus concurrently as long as their employing departments/supervisors do not object, and the student does not exceed the maximum weekly hours.
Can transfer students work on campus?
Transfer students may only work on campus at the school that has their SEVIS record. Change of Education Level students may work on campus during the gap between academic programs once they receive their I-20 for the new program.
How many digits are in a Social Security number?
Obtaining a Social Security Number. The Social Security Administration (SSA) assigns nine-digit Social Security numbers (SSNs) to U.S. citizens, permanent residents and eligible nonimmigrant workers in the United States. SSA uses SSNs to report wages to the government, track Social Security benefits and for other identification purposes.
How long do you have to be in active status to get a SSN?
Your SEVIS record must be in Active status for at least two days before applying for an SSN. If you have a record in any other status, you will not be successful in applying for an SSN.
What does the SSA use to report wages?
SSA uses SSNs to report wages to the government, track Social Security benefits and for other identification purposes. Every F and M student who U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) grants employment authorization to needs an SSN.
Do F or M students need an ITIN?
Please note: If an F or M student (or dependent) is ineligible to receive an SSN, but receives non-wage income while in the United States (e.g., scholarships, grants, interest on stocks, gambling/lottery winnings), they must apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
Do you need an SSN to get a driver's license?
In these states, if you or your dependents are not eligible to work but want to apply for a driver's license, you must first apply for an SSN at the local SSA office and receive a Form SSA-L676, "Refusal to Process SSN Application." To learn more, visit our Driving in the States page and talk with your DSO.
