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How soon can an F-1 or M-1 international student, who also will be working while studying in the United States, get a Social Security number?

We suggest you wait until you are in the United States for at least 10 days before you apply for a Social Security number. Also, you should report to your school prior to applying for a number. Taking these actions will ensure we can verify your immigration status with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
To apply for a Social Security number:

• Complete an Application For A Social Security Card (Form SS-5); and
• Show us documents proving:
• • Immigration status and DHS work authorization;
  • Age; and
  • Identity.
• Take your completed application and original documents to your local Social Security office. If you live in the New York City metropolitan area, Las Vegas NV, Orlando FL, or Phoenix AZ you may need to apply in person at your local Social Security Card Center.

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 information, see our publication International Students and Social Security Numbers (Publication No. 05-10181).
Important information about F-1 and M-1 international students also can be found on the Immigration and Customs Enforcement website.