The Social Security Administration suggests 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 Social Security 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 documents proving:
  • Immigration status and DHS work authorization;
  • 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. Social Security cannot accept photocopies or notarized copies of documents. They also cannot accept a receipt that shows you have applied for these documents.

Social Security will mail your number and card as soon as they have all of your information and have verified your documents.
For more information, see the Social Security Administration’s 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.