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:
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.
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