Students and scholars must wait at least two weeks after their initial entry into the U.S to begin the SSN application process. The SSA must receive its database update from the ports of entry before the application can be accepted.
To begin the application process, students and scholars must first obtain a job offer and bring the job offer letter to OIS along with the SSN letter request form. In 5 business days, an OIS support letter will be prepared for the SSN application. It is not possible to obtain an SSN without this letter. The application for an SSN is free of charge.
Required documents for SSN Application at SSA:
- Application for SS-5 (available at an SSA office or online)
- Valid Passport
- Original SEVIS I-20 (for F-1 visa holders) or DS-2019 (for J-1/J-2 visa holders)
- A valid I-94 card (a small white Arrival/Departure card stapled to passport)
- Proof of employment eligibility (such as an job offer letter, I-20 endorsed for CPT, or Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card.
- Social Security letter from OIS
All documents must be either originals or copies certified by the issuing agency. The SSA does not accept photocopies or notarized copies of documents. SSA will then verify the documents with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) before assigning an SSN.
A Social Security number and card will be issued within about two weeks of receiving certification from DHS. In most cases, the SSA can quickly verify the documents online.
Most on-campus jobs at USC will allow students to start working while their application is being processed.
The closest Social Security Administration office from USC University Park campus:
1115 W. Adams Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90007
(800) 772-1213
Social Security Administration Office Map