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I have received my visa to work temporarily in the U.S. but have not yet traveled there. Can I apply at the U.S. embassy in my home country for a Social Security number before I leave for the U.S.?

No. A visa only permits you to travel to the United States to apply for entry. When you reach the United States, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will determine if you may be admitted. If DHS admits you to the United States, it will issue you the appropriate document showing your lawful admission and work authorization status. Once you receive these documents, you can apply for a Social Security number. The U.S. Department of State does offer expedited Social Security applications, but only for adults applying for permanent residence. Once DHS issues you documentation citing your immigration status and work eligibility, you can apply for a Social Security number.

To do so:

• Complete an Application For A Social Security Card (Form SS-5); and
• Show us documents proving:
  • Immigration status;
  • Work eligibility;
  • Age; and
  • Identity.
• Take your completed application and original documents to your local Social Security office.

All documents must be either originals or copies certified by the issuing agency. We cannot accept photocopies or notarized copies of documents. We also cannot accept a receipt that shows you have applied for these documents.

We will mail your number and card as soon as we have all of your information and have verified your documents.
For more detailed information, see Social Security Numbers For Noncitizens  (Publication No. 05-10096) or Documents You Need for a Social Security Card.