How long does it take for an immigrant to get a Social Security number?

Summary of the Article:

If you are a nonimmigrant, there are two ways that you can apply for a Social Security number (SSN) depending on your visa status. If you are lawfully present in the United States and applying for work authorization or permanent resident status, you can apply for your SSN or replacement card through the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Additionally, noncitizens can apply for SSN cards as part of the immigration process when applying for an immigrant visa with the U.S. Department of State. Checking the status of your SSN application can be done online by signing into your government account and viewing the Current Status section. You can also call the Social Security Administration (SSA) at 1-800-772-1213 to obtain your SSN. Having an SSN is essential for job applications, collecting Social Security benefits, and accessing certain government services in the United States. Undocumented immigrants have various paths to legal status, such as through marriage to a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident, employment with LIFE Act protection, asylum status, U visa for victims of crime, or registry. Although an SSN is not required to start working, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) mandates employers to report wages using employees’ SSN. In the event of application delays, missing information, or errors, the processing time for an SSN may take longer. Individuals can access their Social Security Statement online through a my Social Security account, providing valuable information about their future benefits and earnings history.

15 Questions and Detailed Answers:

1. How does an immigrant get a Social Security number?
   If you are a nonimmigrant, there are two ways that you can apply for a Social Security number (SSN) depending on your visa status. If you are lawfully present in the United States and applying for work authorization or permanent resident status, you can apply for your SSN or replacement card through the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Additionally, noncitizens can apply for SSN cards as part of the immigration process when applying for an immigrant visa with the U.S. Department of State.
2. Can I get a Social Security number while waiting for a Green Card?
   Yes, when you apply for your immigrant visa with the U.S. Department of State, you can also apply for a Social Security number (SSN) card at the same time.
3. How do I track my SSN application?
   To check the status of your SSN application, you can sign in to your government account online and view the Current Status section. Alternatively, you can call the Social Security Administration (SSA) at 1-800-772-1213 to inquire about the status of your SSN application.
4. How do I know if my SSN has been issued?
   To find out if your SSN has been issued, you can call the Social Security Administration (SSA) at 1-800-772-1213. After verifying your identity, a teleservice representative will be able to provide you with your SSN.
5. Can an immigrant work without a Social Security number?
   No, in order to work, collect Social Security benefits, and access certain government services, immigrants typically need a valid Social Security number (SSN). Employers often require an SSN for hiring purposes.
6. How can undocumented immigrants become legal?
   Undocumented immigrants have several potential paths to legal status. These include obtaining a Green Card through marriage to a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident, employment with LIFE Act protection, asylum status, obtaining a U visa for victims of crime, or using the registry process.
7. Can I start working without a Social Security number?
   While you are not required to have a Social Security number before starting work, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) mandates that employers use your SSN to report your wages. In the interim, your employer can use a letter from the Social Security Administration (SSA) stating that you have applied for an SSN.
8. Should I go to the Social Security office after obtaining a Green Card?
   If you did not request a replacement Social Security card on your I-765 application, you must contact your local Social Security office or Social Security Card Center AFTER you receive your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) or Green Card. They will be able to assist you with any updates or changes to your SSN.
9. Why is my SSN application taking so long?
   Some of the reasons why an SSN application may take longer to process include missing information or errors on the application. The Social Security Administration (SSA) may need to contact you for further details or corrections, which can extend the processing time by several weeks or even months.
10. Can you view your SSN online?
    Yes, you can view your Social Security Statement, which provides information about your future Social Security benefits and current earnings history, by creating a my Social Security account and accessing it online.
11. Is 123456789 a valid SSN?
    No, 123456789 is not a valid Social Security number (SSN). SSNs must meet specific criteria and have a unique combination of numbers. Any SSN that does not adhere to these requirements is considered invalid.