Austin - Obtaining your SSN

While government offices are closed to the public for walk-in services, some offices are still able to provide
critical services and many are offering in-person appointments on an urgent basis for those who require
Social Security numbers for employment. Currently, the application process varies by office location and is
subject to change. I suggest we have a call to go over all the below information.

Notes:

● Please verify with your immigration team if you or your dependants will need to apply for a Social
Security Number on arrival in USA.
● You may also be able save yourself a trip to the SSA office if you apply for an SSN during the work
permit application process - see link here.

Application Steps:
You can apply for a Social Security Number on the same day you are entering or reentering the United
States. In order to do so, you need to get your most recent I-94 form to prove your legal visitor status in
the US.

1. Collect the required forms and documentation (see below). Please note that spouses and children
do not get issued SSNs if they are not authorized to work in the US.
2. Complete the Social Security Application Form SS-5.
3. Locate the closest Social Security Administration Office to your home or temporary apartment and
call it. I will be happy to help you with this.
4. Leave your information (name, visa type, date of birth, US phone number to be called back) in order
to get an appointment. Also, ask for the latest instructions on preparing for the appointment (some
offices may require you to submit the documents via fax in advance).
5. Wait for the Social Security Administration Office to call you back, usually within 4 weeks, with the
specifics of the appointment.
6. Submit the application and the required documents during your in-person appointment at
the Social Security Office.
7. Request a verification receipt of your application.
8. Wait approximately two weeks for the Social Security card to arrive in the mail.
9. Present the Social Security card to your employer for review.
10. Store the original Social Security card in a safe place. Do not carry it with you.

Required Documentation for Application:

● Original Passport
● Print a screenshot of your I-94 admission data which may be obtained via the U.S. Customs and
Border Protection website
● For H-1B, L-1, and O-1 visa holders, bring your original form I-797 approval notice issued by the
U.S. Department of Homeland Security
○ If you obtained your L-1 visa via your company’s L-1 Blanket petition, bring your stamped
form I-129S

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Austin - Obtaining your SSN

Social Security Number Safety:

Because the SSN is a unique ID, it is often the target of “identity theft”. Therefore you should be very
careful about where and to whom you give your SSN.

● Never carry your Social Security card or number with you. Keep it at home in a secure place.
● Only give your SSN to someone who has a specific and legitimate need for it.
● Be very careful with any forms, applications, or other materials that may have your SSN on them.