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Social Security Number Information

A social security number (SSN) can be issued to foreign students in certain situations. Specifically, they must be attending school full-time and have been hired or will be hired to work on-campus.

These students cannot be issued social security numbers for off-campus employment or if they are not attending school full-time.

The specific documents required to issue cards to these students are:

  • Evidence of age and identity (at least one year old) – this is normally the passport
  • An I-20 ID (student) copy from the accredited school
  • A current I-94
  • Evidence of authorization to work and full-time attendance- this is normally the original letter from the designated school official (PDSO or DSO) which specifies that the named student is authorized to work on-campus and is currently enrolled in a full course of study.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) must conduct a face-to-face interview with the student. The social security office will copy all documents and verify their authenticity before issuing a number. Numbers are normally issued within two weeks; however, delays in verifying all documents can add an additional 30-60 days in receiving a number.

If a foreign student does not meet the requirements, they will not be issued a social security number. These students should apply with IRS for an individual taxpayer identification number that can be used to open bank accounts, etc.

U.S. SSA Office Location & Hours

1405 Greenup Ave.
Ashland, KY 41101
Monday - 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Tuesday - Friday - 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.