How to get SSN (Social Security Number) in the United States: for F1 visas

Today, I'm sharing the process, required documents, and some on-the-ground tips for those applying for SSN in the U.S.

Let's dive right in.

Process:

1. Schedule an SSN Appointment
  To apply for an SSN, you need to submit an online application and then make an appointment for an in-person visit to submit your documents. You can also schedule an appointment over the phone. When making the appointment, you can select the Social Security office you will visit, as well as the date and time of your appointment. It’s best to choose a Social Security office close to your address.

 *Appointment Scheduling Website:

[https://www.ssa.gov/number-card/request-number-first-time]

2. Visit the Social Security Office on Your Appointment Day

  On the day of your appointment, make sure to bring all the required documents to the office. After submitting your online application, you will receive confirmation of your appointment date via both email and text message. You’ll also receive reminders via email the day before and on the day of your appointment.

  An hour before your appointment, you'll receive a check-in email. When you arrive at the office, use the link in the email to check in, and then wait in the waiting room. At the office I visited, after checking in with my phone, I received a number ticket from a kiosk to wait for my turn.

3. Interview with the Document Examiner

  When your number is displayed on the screen, go to the indicated window. The examiner will greet you and ask for the documents you’ve prepared. It’s easier if you have all your documents ready to hand over at once.

  During the interview, the examiner may ask a few questions to verify the authenticity of your responses, which will be recorded. I was asked questions like "Is this your first time in the U.S.?" and "Is your mother's name the same since birth?" The latter question was likely because in the U.S., married women often change their last names, so the concept of a "Maiden Name" is common. I assume I got the question because my parents have the same last name, which is common in Korea. 

  Finally, you'll receive a confirmation of your SSN issuance, and you’ll be asked to verify that the mailing address for your SSN card is correct. It’s important to double-check this, as any mistakes could lead to complications.

4.Receive Your SSN Card by Mail

  The examiner informed me that the SSN card should arrive within 10 days. If it doesn’t arrive within 30 days, you’ll need to visit the office again to inquire. But in most cases, it should be delivered without issues.

Required Dcouments for F1 Student Visa Holders:

• SS-5 Form (SSN application form)  
    You can download it from the SSA website: [https://www.ssa.gov/forms/](https://www.ssa.gov/forms/]
• Job Letter
    In my case, as a GA(graduate assistant), I requested this letter from my department office. I brought a printed copy, which was acceptable, though they did ask if it was printed. It’s probably better to bring an original signed document if possible.
• SSN Endorsement Letter
    You can request this from your school’s International Student Services center. I received the original document on-site.
• I-20 Form
• I-94 Form
• Passport

As an international student, you’ll need an SSN for almost all administrative paperwork, so I recommend applying as soon as possible. If you try to schedule an appointment after the semester starts, available dates might be fully booked, causing significant delays.

Also, since you’ll be asked questions related to the information you provided, it’s a good idea to review your responses beforehand. If your answers differ from what you originally submitted, it could cause issues. Knowing that you might be asked about your parents’ names can also help you feel more prepared.

The most important thing is to double-check the required documents with your institution, as they can vary depending on the agency, state, and visa type. Keep in mind that this post is based on my experience as an F1 visa student working at a university.

I hope this post helps other international students like me who are navigating the maze of administrative tasks during their studies abroad.