International Student Services

Obtaining a Social Security Number

What is a Social Security Number ?

A Social Security card is required for everyone who works in the U.S., even non-immigrants. On the card will be a unique Social Security Number (SSN), a 9 digit number, that you will keep for life. You will need the number for many purposes in the U.S. including employment and paying taxes. 

Obtaining an SSN

If your first employment is an on-campus job your employer must complete your employment paperwork with Human Resources (HR). HR will process your paperwork and send your employment details to OIP. OIP will then issue you an SSN employment letter for proof of work authorization. 

If your first employment is through CPT or OPT employment authorizations, your proof of work authorization will be on your I-20.

Please Note: All eligible applicants must wait at least 12-15 days after their initial entry into the U.S. before applying for the Social Security Number. If you apply too early, the Social Security Administration (SSA) cannot verify your status because your port of entry data may not yet be in the entry verification system.

To apply you need the following documents:

• Complete the online application on the SSA website.
  • You will need to write down your Online Control Number or print the screen for your appointment.
  • The site allows you to schedule an appointment after you have submitted your application. 
  • If you do not utilize the online application process, you must still make an appointment before going into an office.  Contact 1-800-772-1213.
  • Wait times vary depending on time of day and day of week you call.  
• Passport & Visa
• I-94 record
• Job Offer Letter
• I-20 (or DS-2019 for J visa holders)
• SSN Employment letter from OIP (for on-campus employment and J visa holders)

The Tyler Social Security Administration Office is located at:

5509 S. Donnybrook Ave., Tyler TX 75703/ Phone: 1-877-319-5707

*There is no fee to apply for a Social Security number.  Once approved, you’ll receive your Social Security card/number by mail within 14 days. You must provide your Social Security card to your employer’s human resource personnel or office once you receive it. 

You may work while the Social Security number application is being processed. 

Resources

General Information from the Social Security Administration: International Students and Social Security Numbers

Protecting your Identity: Identity Theft and your Social Security Number

Correcting an Error on your Card: Correct Card for a Noncitizen Adult Instructions

Information for Employers: Employer Responsibilities When Hiring Foreign Workers