Social Security Card

A Social Security Number (SSN) is a unique ID used by the U.S. government to track taxable wages. International students or scholars can get an SSN only if authorized to work in the U.S. The SSN itself does not grant employment authorization; it enables payment and tax reporting to the IRS.

Eligibility

F-1 Student

J-1 Student Sponsored by Boston University

J-1 Scholars (Professor, Research Scholar, Specialist, Short-Term Scholar, Student Intern) Sponsored by Boston University

J-1 Students or Scholars Sponsored by an Outside Agency

Other Employees (H-1, O-1, TN, etc.)

Students and Employees with an Employment Authorization Document (EAD)

Social Security Certification Form

F-1 students must follow these steps to document their on-campus employment to support their SSN application.

Ask your employer to complete the SSA-approve Certification of On-Campus Employment form for Boston University. You will need a copy of this form printed on department letterhead and signed by your on-campus employer.
Bring the printed and signed Certification of On-Campus Employment form to the ISSO front desk any time during business hours to request a Designated School Official (DSO) signature.

F-1 students must present the completed, signed original form along with their passport, I-94 arrival record, and I-20s when applying for an SSN at the SSA office.

Applying for a Social Security Card

To work in the U.S., get your Social Security Card before starting. If you begin work without an SSN, notify your employer as soon as you receive it to adjust payroll tax withholding’s.

SSN Application Steps:

Apply online for a new or replacement card following SSA guidelines. Make note of your confirmation number.
Book appointment with the Social Security Administration.
Gather the required documentation:

- Unexpired passport
- I-94 arrival record
- Additional documents depending on your immigration status to show U.S. employment authorization. Review ISSO chart of the necessary additional documents

4. Bring all required documents to your scheduled appointment

After You Apply for your SSN

Most employers will request your SSN before the start of your employment. If you begin employment without your SSN, notify your employer as soon as you receive your number so they may adjust your tax withholdings.

The Social Security Administration may take time to verify your immigration status before issuing your Social Security Card, which is usually mailed within 14 business days. If you don’t receive it within 30–60 days, contact SSA at 800-772-1213 or check their website for your application status.

Your card will state “Valid for Employment Only with DHS Authorization,” indicating you need separate work authorization to start employment.

You do not need to report your Social Security Number to the ISSO.