Social Security Numbers

A Social Security Number (SSN) is issued to track earnings over a worker’s lifetime. Students holding F-1 and J-1 status who are employed in the U.S. must apply for a Social Security number. Dependents in F-2 status are not eligible for a Social Security number.

How to Apply

Students with On-Campus Employment

1. Obtain a job offer letter from your employer - see job offer letter template
2. Complete Social Security Number Support Letter Request
3. Allow 10 business days (weekends and holidays are excluded) for processing 
4. Take the following documents to a Social Security Administration Office. 
   
   1. I-20 (F-1 visa holders) or DS-2019 (J-1 visa holders)
   2. I-94
   3. Passport
   4. Social Security Number Support Letter (the letter issued by ISSO)
   5. SSN Application Form

Locate a Social Security Administration Office nearest to you. 

Please contact them should you have any questions about their forms or SSN application process. 

Students with Off-Campus Employment (Curricular Practical Training)

1. Complete the Curricular Practical Training (CPT) application process
2. Complete Social Security Number Support Letter Request
3. Allow 10 business days (weekends and holidays are excluded) for processing
4. Bring the following documents to a Social Security Administration Office:
   1. I-20 (F-1 visa holders) or DS-2019 (J-1 visa holders)
   2. I-94
   3. Passport
   4. Social Security Number Support Letter (the letter issued by ISSO)
   5. SSN Application Form

Locate a Social Security Administration Office nearest to you. 

Please contact them should you have any questions about their forms or SSN application process. 

Helpful Websites

• Social Security Numbers for Noncitizen
• Obtaining a Social Security Number
• Social Security/Medicare and Self-Employment Tax Liability of Foreign Students, Scholars, Teachers, Researchers, and Trainees

Frequently Asked Questions

Expand/Collapse All Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost?

There is no charge for a Social Security number and card.

How long does it take to get a SSN?

The Social Security Administration will mail your number and card as soon as all of your immigration information has been verified. It can take 2-4 weeks or more.

What if my card is lost or stolen?

You can replace your card for free if it is lost or stolen. However, you are limited to three replacement cards in a year and 10 during your lifetime. Legal name changes and other exceptions do not count toward these limits. For example, changes in nonimmigrant status that require card updates may not count toward these limits.

To request a replacement card:

1. Complete an Application For A Social Security Card (Form SS-5)
2. Present recently issued photo identification to show your identity (passport, California state identification card)
3. Show evidence of your current lawful nonimmigrant status (visa, I-20/ DS-2019, I-94)
4. Complete a new Social Security Verification form (if you are employed on campus)

Your replacement card will have the same name and number as your previous card.

What if my immigration status or citizenship changes?

If your immigration status changes or you become a legal permanent resident (LPR), you should inform the Social Security Administration office so that your records can be updated. You will need to present documents that prove your new status.

Are my earnings taxable for social security purposes?

Please see "U.S. Taxes" for more information.

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