The main use of Social Security numbers (SSN) by businesses and landlords is to check a person’s credit history. International students usually do not have any credit history since they have recently moved to the U.S., so it is useless for businesses to run a credit check on a SSN or to even ask for a SSN.

Many businesses will say that it is a requirement for the customer to provide a SSN. However, this is not true. Social Security numbers are the most common form of identification in the U.S., but they are not the only form of legal acceptable identification.

• Completed Form SS-5 application (online)
• Valid passport
• I-20—for CPT, OPT or other off-campus employment, must show employment information on page 2
• I-94–if last entered the country after July 2013, you will need to print your electronic record
• Official school letter from employer—If you have a campus job, bring your job contract, photocopy of a completed job application or proof of employment authorization
• EAD (Employment Authorization Document, Form I-766)—if you have been approved for off-campus employment or OPT (not needed for CPT)

You must bring ALL these documents, or your application will be denied.

You will need to wait at least 10 days after you enter the country and 48 hours after your record has been activated (registered) in SEVIS for the current term.

Contact the F-1 International Student Advisor to register your SEVIS record. You will need to be registered and confirmed for classes for the current term for your SEVIS record can be registered.

Additionally:

• For on-campus employment: no earlier than 30 days before the start date listed on your employment contract or authorization letter.
• For CPT: no earlier than 30 days before the CPT employment start date listed on page 3 of your CPT I-20
• For OPT: no earlier than the employment start date listed on your EAD (I-766)
• For other off-campus employment: no earlier than the employment start date listed on your EAD (I-766)

Yes, you can start to work on the approved employment start date without a SSN. However, you will not be able to receive a paycheck without one. When you apply, it is recommend that you ask for a receipt from the SSA to prove that you have applied for a Social Security card.

For more information, please see Employer Responsibilities When Hiring Foreign Workers

You can replace your card for free. You will need to bring the same original documentation used when first applied. Be sure to indicate on the application form that you are applying for a replacement card (question 11: check yes and answer questions 12-13).