
SSN 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…Social Security number
Can L2 visa holder work in USA?
Fortunately, the answer is yes, you can work in the U.S. on an L2 visa if you get an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Below we take a look at everything you need to know about an L2 EAD and how it can enable you to build a great career in the U.S. What is L2 EAD? How Long is L2 EAD Valid for? What is L2 EAD?
What is an L2 EAD visa?
What is L2 EAD? If you aren’t a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, you need to get special permission and authorization before you will be allowed to work in the U.S. This is also only allowed for certain types of visas.
Can I work with my spouse on an L-1 visa?
If your spouse is working in the United States under an L-1 visa, by applying for an L-2 visa, you can join him. An L-2 visa allows you to live and work in the United States at the same time as your spouse. Simply request an Employment Authorization Document from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services as proof of your work authorization.
What documents do I need to apply for L2 EAD?
Here are the documents you need to apply for your L2 EAD. Biometric services fee – $85 for your biometric screening appointment L1 approval notice of the primary visa holder (Form I-797) – Include a copy of the document that approves your spouse’s L1 visa

Can L-2 visa holders apply for SSN?
An L2 spouse may obtain a SSN with an Employment Authorization Document.
Can I get SSN without EAD?
If you are lawfully present in the United States and plan to apply for work authorization or lawful permanent resident status from DHS, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), you can apply for your SSN or replacement card.
Can I apply for SSN without work authorization?
Eligibility for a Social Security Number Only non-citizens authorized to work in the U.S. are eligible for a Social Security number. Those with a non-employment based temporary visa without authorization to work in the U.S. are not permitted to apply for a social security number.
Is EAD required for L-2 visa holders?
As part of the settlement, on November 12, 2021, the USCIS announced that E and L2 spouse visa holders are no longer required to apply for an employment authorization document (EAD) to work in the United States by virtue of holding L2 or E status.
Can I work while waiting for SSN?
While you wait for your Social Security number, your employer can use a letter from us stating you applied for a number, and your immigration documents can prove your authorization to work in the United States. Employers can find more information online at www.socialsecurity.gov/employer/hiring.htm.
How long it will take to get EAD?
From point of approval, USCIS says it can take 30 days beyond to receive your EAD card; however, most cards arrive within 7-10 days after approval. In total, it is likely for your OPT application to take 90-120 days.
How long does it take to get SSN after EAD?
7 business daysYou should receive your SSN card no later than 7 business days after you receive your EAD from USCIS. Please call or visit an SSA office if you do not receive your SSN card within 7 business days after receiving your EAD. Please bring this flyer and your EAD as it may help us answer your questions.
What documents do I need to apply for Social Security?
Social SecurityYour Social Security card or a record of your number.Your original birth certificate, a copy certified by the issuing agency, or other proof of your age. ... If you were not born in the U.S., proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful alien status.More items...
Who can apply for 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 will it take to get EAD for L-2 visa?
60 to 90 daysL-2 EAD application processing times tend to vary from one USCIS service center to another, but the process generally takes 60 to 90 days. If your EAD application is approved, USCIS will mail your plastic EAD card via first-class U.S. mail.
Can I work in USA without EAD?
They may commence employment with any employer upon arrival in the United States, and will not be found inadmissible for having engaged in unauthorized employment for working without an EAD. This settlement has two potential benefits to employers: USCIS has been notoriously slow in processing EAD card applications.
Does L-2 spouse need EAD to work?
The new admission code follows a November 2021 USCIS policy change recognizing L dependent spouses are automatically work-authorized due to their status—without the need for an employment authorization document (EAD).
Is SSN same as EAD?
Form I-765 – Application for Employment Authorization If USCIS approves your application, you will receive two documents - your Employment Authorization Document (EAD), also known as the "USCIS I-765 card" or "work permit", and in another envelope your SSN card.
What documents do I need to apply for Social Security?
Social SecurityYour Social Security card or a record of your number.Your original birth certificate, a copy certified by the issuing agency, or other proof of your age. ... If you were not born in the U.S., proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful alien status.More items...
How do I apply for Social Security for the first time?
You can apply:Online; or.By calling our national toll-free service at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) or visiting your local Social Security office. ... If you do not live in the U.S. or one of its territories, you can also contact your nearest U.S. Social Security office, U.S. Embassy or consulate.
How do new immigrants get Social Security number?
If You Requested an SSN When You Applied for Your Visa Therefore, you do not need to fill out a special application or go to a Social Security office to get an SSN. We will assign you an SSN and issue you a Social Security card after you arrive in the United States.
1 attorney answer
The issue here is complex, as the Social Security Administration (SSA) has traditionally viewed things differently than USCIS. But currently the SSA will issue a SSN to a L-2 visa holder.
Brian S Wayson
The issue here is complex, as the Social Security Administration (SSA) has traditionally viewed things differently than USCIS. But currently the SSA will issue a SSN to a L-2 visa holder.
Where to send EAD form?
Submit EAD to Social Security Administration. To apply for a Social Security number and card, complete form SS-5, Application for a Social Security card, which is available online at the U.S. Social Security Administration website. After completing this form, you can either mail it to SSA or turn it in at your local Social Security office.
How long does it take to get a new Social Security card?
SSA will mail your new Social Security card within seven to 14 days after you submit your application. Your new Social Security number enables you to engage in a variety of activities in the United States, including opening a bank account and establishing utility services.
How Long is L2 EAD Valid for?
An EAD is normally valid for two years. The validity of your L2 EAD is, however, dependent on your L2 visa’s validity. Your visa gives you the right to be in the U.S. and your EAD was granted to you based on a valid visa. So, your L2 EAD is valid for a maximum of two years or until your L2 visa expires (whichever of the two scenarios happens first).
How long does it take to get an L2 EAD card?
The processing times for L2 EAD applications vary from one service center to the other. Generally, however, the L2 EAD processing time is between 60-90 days for the USCIS to reach a decision regarding your application. Once your application is approved, they will mail you the EAD card (it looks like a plastic credit card). If it turns out your application is unsuccessful for whatever reason, they will also notify you accordingly.
How long before L2 EAD expires?
You can apply for your new L2 EAD about 4 months before your current one expires. This will allow you and the USCIS enough time to produce the new one before your current EAD expires.
What states do L2 spouses need to mail to?
L2 spouses from these states need to use the following mailing address – AK, AZ, CA, CO, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, MI, MN, MO, MT, ND, NE, NV, OH, OR, SD, UT, WA, WI, or WY mail to:
Does L2 visa expire?
Your L2 visa will expire as soon as your spouse’s L1 visa expires (in turn causing your EAD to expire as well).
