Social Security Numbers for International Students

F-1 students may apply for an original Social Security Number (SSN) at a Social Security Administration (SSA) field office by submitting an Application for a Social Security Card (Form SS-5, available for download here), to the SSA, and providing documentary evidence of:

• age
• identity
• work-authorized lawful alien status

Documentation requirements for F-1 students

F-1 students are subject to special documentation requirements as well as special immigration status verification rules. An F-1 applicant must submit the following as part of his or her application for a SSN:

• A completed Form SS-5, Application for a Social Security Card
• At least two documents that establish the applicant's age and identity including a passport and one additional document establishing identity
• Form I-94 (arrival/departure card)
• SEVIS Form I-20
• Proof of employment authorization. SSA will issue an SSN only to F-1 students who are authorized to be employed in the United States.

Information supplied by the Social Security Administration, www.socialsecurity.gov