A Social Security number (SSN) is one of the most important pieces of identification in the United States. For immigrants, it often marks a critical step in being able to work, file tax returns, open financial accounts, and build credit. However, confusion about how to obtain one, who is eligible, and what it actually does is common.
In this guide, you'll learn what a Social Security number is, who is eligible to get one, common mistakes to avoid, and what you need to know about navigating Social Security for immigrants.
What You'll Learn
- What Is a Social Security Number (SSN)?
- Which Immigrants Get a Social Security Number?
- What a Social Security Number Is Not
- Apply for a Social Security Number for Immigrants
- Replacing a Lost or Stolen Social Security Card
- Can Undocumented Immigrants Get a Social Security Number?
- Tips to Protect Your Social Security Number
- Social Security FAQs for Immigrants
What Is a Social Security Number (SSN)?
A Social Security number is a unique, 9-digit number issued by the U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Its original purpose was to track earnings for calculating Social Security benefits. Today, it's also used for taxes, opening bank accounts, applying for credit, and verifying identity for work.
You will often be asked for your SSN when:
- Starting a new job
- Filing tax returns
- Applying for a driver’s license or state ID
- Enrolling in school or benefits programs
Did You Know?: Before 2011, the first three digits of your SSN often indicated the state where it was issued. Today, numbers are assigned randomly to protect against identity theft.
What Is “Social Security” in the U.S.?
In the United States, Social Security is a government program that provides benefits like retirement income, disability payments, and survivor benefits to eligible workers and their families. These benefits are funded by payroll taxes taken out of your paycheck while you're working.
If you're an immigrant with work authorization and a Social Security number, your wages may be subject to Social Security taxes. Over time, this may make you eligible to receive benefits if you meet the requirements for age, work history, and legal status. It’s important to understand:
- The Social Security number helps track your earnings.
- The Social Security program is the system that provides benefits based on those earnings.
Which Immigrants Get a Social Security Number?
Immigrants must be authorized to work in the U.S. to be eligible for an SSN. This includes:
- Permanent residents (green card holders)
- Refugees and asylees
- People with work-authorized visas, such as H-1B, L-1, or O-1
- Certain F-1 students with work authorization (OPT or CPT)
- People with approved Form I-765 (Employment Authorization Document)
If you're not eligible for an SSN, you may still be able to apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to file taxes.
Note: Children who immigrate to the U.S. can also apply for an SSN once they have legal status.
What a Social Security Number Is Not
There are several common misunderstandings about the SSN, especially among newcomers to the U.S. It's important to clarify that a Social Security number:
- Is not proof of legal immigration status — It is issued based on eligibility to work, but it does not by itself prove lawful presence.
- Does not grant employment authorization — You must first have permission to work from USCIS or DOS before applying.
- Is not a work visa — It does not replace or act as a visa or green card.
Think of the SSN as a tracking number. It helps the government and private entities identify you, but it does not give you immigration benefits by itself.
Apply for a Social Security Number for Immigrants
There are two main ways immigrants can apply for an SSN:
Apply During the Immigration Process
If you're applying for a green card or a work permit, you can usually request an SSN on your immigration form:
- Form DS-260 (for immigrant visa applicants abroad)
- Form I-485 (for adjustment of status applicants inside the U.S.)
- Form I-765 (work permit application)
If you request an SSN on these forms, the SSA will automatically issue the card after your immigration benefit is approved. The card typically arrives within 2-3 weeks after the immigration benefit is granted. You do not need to visit a Social Security office.
Apply at a Social Security Office
If you didn't request one during your immigration filing, you can apply in person after arriving in the U.S. Generally, you will need:
- Valid passport
- I-94 arrival/departure record
- Work-authorizing visa or EAD (Employment Authorization Document)
- Completed Form SS-5 (Application for Social Security Card)
Applications must be submitted in person at a local SSA office. Fortunately, there is no fee to apply. You will typically receive the card within 2–4 weeks, depending on processing times and the office workload.
Replacing a Lost or Stolen Social Security Card
If your Social Security card was lost, stolen or otherwise destroyed, you can replace it. However, if you know your Social Security number, it’s generally not necessary to replace the card. The number is the important part. If necessary, here's how to recover or replace it:
To find your number:
- Look at past tax returns, W-2s, or pay stubs
- Check your online SSA account if you have one
To replace your card:
- Complete Form SS-5 again
- Show valid immigration documents and ID
- Visit a local SSA office in person
The replacement card will have the same number.
Can Undocumented Immigrants Get a Social Security Number?
No. Undocuments immigrants generally cannot obtain a Social Security number. There are exceptions. Individuals who are authorized to work in the U.S. — such as DACA recipients — can receive an SSN. However, all undocumented immigrants may apply for an ITIN through the IRS. This allows them to:
- File taxes
- Receive tax refunds
- Claim dependents (if eligible)
Tips to Protect Your Social Security Number
Once you receive a Social Security number, it's important to take steps to protect it. Your SSN is a key to your identity and financial life in the United States. If stolen or misused, it can lead to identity theft, credit fraud, and problems with government agencies. Immigrants are often targeted by scammers who assume they may not fully understand the risks. That makes it especially important to know how and when to share your SSN, and how to keep it safe.
- Don’t carry the card in your wallet
- Only give your SSN to trusted institutions (like USCIS, your employer or bank)
- Beware of scams and phone calls asking for your SSN
- Monitor your credit regularly for unauthorized use
Be Cautious: To minimize your exposure, it's best to memorize your SSN and leave your card at home in a safe place.
Social Security FAQs for Immigrants
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