How To Get A Social Security Number (SSN) As An International Student

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ISO Customer Care | Oct 24, 2024 Student Life

Navigating the legal and administrative hurdles in the U.S. can be overwhelming for international students, especially since many come from countries with entirely different systems. Obtaining a social security number (SSN) is one of the most crucial steps in an international student's journey to maintaining their lawful status. Your SSN is a vital piece of identification, that plays a key role in everything from employment to filing taxes, to even banking. This guide will walk you through exactly how to get an SSN as an international student, ensuring you’re well-prepared every step of the way.

What is an SSN, and Why is it Important?

A Social Security Number is a nine-digit identification number issued to individuals by the U.S. government. For international students, having an SSN is important for various reasons:

  • Employment: If you have a paying job in the U.S., you are required to have a social security number so the government can track your earnings for tax purposes.
  • Filing Taxes: Even if you don’t work, you may need to file taxes, and an SSN can make the process simpler.
  • Opening a Bank Account: While some banks allow international students to open an account with just a passport and visa, others may require a SSN.
  • Credit History: If you plan to stay in the U.S. for an extended period, having an SSN allows you to establish a credit history, which is crucial for future loans or renting an apartment.

Can International Students Get a Social Security Number without a Job?

Unfortunately, no. International students on F1 and J1 visas can only obtain a social security number if they have employment. This could be:

How to apply for a Social Security Number as an International Student and what Documents are Required

If you meet the employment requirements to apply for an SSN. The application process is easy and straightforward. You can visit the nearest SSN office, unfortunately, you cannot apply for it online and would have to visit in person. While visiting the SSN office you would need to carry the following documents (Please note to carry the original document and not a copy of them, as the SSN office does not accept copies):

  • Passport: This serves as your primary identification document.
  • I-20 Form: This is your Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status, issued by your university.
  • I-94 Form: This form shows your arrival and departure information. You can retrieve it from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website.
  • Offer Letter: Your offer letter must have your job description, your employment start date, the number of hours you will be working, your supervisor's name and number, and their signature with the date.
  • Social Security Letter from DSO: If you are employed on-campus, your school’s International Student Office (DSO) must provide you with a letter verifying your employment. For CPT or OPT, you will need additional authorization from USICS.
  • Form SS-5:This is the application for a Social Security Card, which you can find on the SSA website or pick up from a local Social Security office.

What if I don’t Qualify for an SSN?

If you do not have employment and therefore, do not qualify for an SSN you would have to apply for ITIN. The ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) is for individuals who need to file taxes but are not eligible for an SSN. If you have a scholarship, fellowship, grant, or any non-employment stipend payments from a U.S. source - it would be taxable and would require ITIN.

You can learn more about how to apply for an ITIN here!

Obtaining a Social Security Number (SSN) as an international student is an important step in your journey to fully integrate into life in the U.S. and maintain your status lawfully, especially if you’re working or planning to work. While the process may seem complicated at first, following the proper steps and ensuring you have all the necessary documents will make it much smoother. Whether you’re employed on campus, participating in practical training, or preparing for post-graduation opportunities, having an SSN will simplify many aspects of your U.S. experience, from filing taxes to opening a bank account.

If you don’t qualify for an SSN, applying for an ITIN can be a helpful alternative for tax-related purposes. The key is to stay informed and organized, so you can navigate the system with confidence and focus on what truly matters—your studies and overall experience in the U.S. Good luck!

ISO offers one of the most affordable plans for students going on OPT. Learn more about why it is important to have health insurance as an international student here

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How To Get A Social Security Number (SSN) As An International Student

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Navigating U.S. legal and administrative processes can be daunting for international students. This guide simplifies the steps to obtain a Social Security Number (SSN)

About ISO Student Health Insurance

Founded in 1958, ISO prides itself on being the leader in providing international students with affordable insurance plans. Administered by former and current international students, we are able to assist our member with multilingual customer service in Chinese, Hindi, Spanish, and more. ISO serves over 3,200 schools/colleges and more than 150,000 insured students every year.

For more information, please visit www.isoa.org and connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, WeChat, WhatsApp, and LinkedIn.

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