Social Security Numbers and Immigrant Visas- Information (2024)

FAQs

Can an immigrant with a visa get a Social Security number? ›

Introduction. We have a way for noncitizens to apply for Social Security number (SSN) cards as part of the immigration process. When you apply for your immigrant visa with the U.S. Department of State, you can also apply for an SSN card at the same time.

For general Social Security inquiries, call us toll-free at 1-800-772-1213 or 1-800-325-0778 (TTY) between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., Monday through Friday.

You should receive your SSN card within two weeks after we have everything we need to process your application, including verification of your immigration document with the USCIS. If we are unable to immediately verify your immigration document with the USCIS, it may take two additional weeks to receive your card.

If you're temporarily in the United States to work, your employer will ask for your SSN. Although many other businesses, such as banks and credit companies, also ask for your number, you aren't required to provide it. You can get many services without an SSN, including a driver's license.

Most B-1/B-2/WT/WB Visa holders are NOT eligible for an SSN or ITIN number. The individual may be eligible for an ITIN number if they meet both of the following criteria: Individual is receiving a taxable payment such as an honorarium or independent service payment, and.

First and foremost, it's important to understand that green card holders are generally eligible for Social Security benefits if they have worked and paid Social Security taxes in the U.S. for at least ten years, or if they are the spouse or dependent of someone who has.

If lawfully present in the United States and your visa status allows you to work, then you must contact your local Social Security office to apply. What do I need to submit to the Social Security office? You need to prove your identity and work- authorized immigration status.

Check your status. Dial 1-800-898-7180. Press 1 for English or 2 for Spanish. Enter your 8-digit A number.

Can Green Holders Get Medicare? Green card holders can get Medicare, but there are specific conditions to meet. Depending on a number of factors including your age and work history, green card holders in the U.S. may qualify for Medicare.

The SSA does not require employees to have an SSN before they start working. However, the IRS requires you to have an employee's SSN to report their wages.

Can I apply for SSN without a job? ›

While having a Social Security Number is convenient for these reasons, SSNs are issued only to those individuals who are employed and/or have tax reporting requirements.

An immigrant visa number is an 8-character identifier. The National Visa Center (NVC) or U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will assign this number to you when you apply for a permanent immigrant visa.

Some government and railroad employees are not eligible for Social Security. American expatriates retiring in certain countries—and some retired immigrants to the U.S.—can't collect Social Security benefits. Divorced spouses married for fewer than 10 years cannot claim benefits based on the earnings of their ex-spouse.

If you were born in the United States (U.S.) or become a U.S. citizen, you are eligible for an SSN, and must provide it to DMV. If you are not a U.S. citizen, but in the United States legally and authorized to work, you are eligible for an SSN, and must provide it to DMV.

F-1 Visa students are eligible for a Social Security Number only if one of the following apply: Student has been issued an Employment Authorization Document / EAD by the USCIS. Student has an I-20 endorsed for Curricular Practical Training. Student is currently employed on campus or has a job offer to do so.