Requirements for applying for US Social Security # for Noncitizens

[NRSKarenRN, BSN, RN]

requirements for applying for us social security # for noncitizens

generally, only noncitizens authorized to work in the united states by the department of homeland security (dhs) can get a social security number. social security numbers are used to report an individual's wages to the government and to determine a person's eligibility for social security benefits.

how can i get a social security number and card?

there are two ways you can apply:

• you can apply in your home country before you come to the united states when filing an application for an immigrant visa with the u.s. department of state. in almost all cases, if you apply for a social security number and card with your immigrant visa application, you do not have to visit a social security office in the united states. (for more information, see www.socialsecurity.gov/ssnvisa); or
  
• you can visit a social security office in person.
  

if you are not an immigrant or did not apply for a social security number on your immigrant visa application, you must have your papers from dhs showing your u.s. immigration status and authorization to work in the united states. then you should apply for a social security number and card by visiting an office. we recommend you wait 10 days after arriving in the united states to apply for a social security number. this will make it easier for us to verify your dhs documents online, which will speed processing of your social security number application. applying for a social security number and card is free. to apply:

• complete an application for a social security card (form ss-5);
  
• show us at least two original documents proving your:
  
  • identity and immigration status,
    
  • work eligibility and
    
  • age; and
    

  [*]take your completed application and original documents to your local social security office.

all documents must be either originals or copies certified by the issuing agency. we cannot accept photocopies or notarized copies of documents. we also cannot accept a receipt showing you applied for the document.

full info: http://www.ssa.gov/pubs/10096.html