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If you live outside of the United States and apply for an SSN card while outside the U.S., we  can  assign you a Social Security number or issue you a replacement card  if you are: (1) a U.S. citizen or (2) a noncitizen lawfully admitted to the U.S. for permanent residence.  Otherwise, we can assign you a number or issue a replacement card only if a Social Security card is required by law as a condition of receiving a federally-funded benefit to which you have already established entitlement.

To apply for a Social Security number, complete an Application For A Social Security Card (Form SS-5-FS) and provide us with required documentation proving your eligibility and your identity.  The SS-5 FS explains what evidence you will need to submit.

All documents must be either originals or copies certified by the issuing agency.  We cannot accept photocopies or notarized copies of documents.

Then, take or mail your completed application and documents to:

• A local Social Security office;
• A U.S. Embassy or consulate;
• The post adjutant or personnel office, if you are a U.S. military dependent or a U.S. citizen working on a U.S. military post; or
• The Veterans Affairs Regional Office in Manila, if you live in the Philippines.

These offices can copy and certify your records so that you do not have to send original documents through the mail. Do NOT mail original documents to the Social Security Administration in Baltimore, Maryland.

We will mail your number and card as soon as we have verified your documents with the issuing entity.

For more information about services outside the United States, see http://www.socialsecurity.gov/foreign.