Obtaining a Social Security Number

Students holding F-1 and J-1 status who are paid by U.S. sources must apply for a social security number. Students who are not employed, but receive scholarships and tuition waivers may need to apply for an Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN). The primary purpose of the social security number is to track earnings over a worker's lifetime. A social security number is not required to obtain a driver's license, cell phone, credit card, insurance, admission to an academic institution or other "nonwork" reason. The Social Security Administration will require evidence that you are eligible to work in the United States, that you are a full-time student, and that you have received a formal offer of employment. The Social Security Administration must also verify your immigration documents and status with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services before issuing the social security number.

To obtain a social security number if you are an F-1 or J-1 student seeking on-campus employment:

1. If you are a new student at Western, report to the International Programs & Exchanges office (IPE) for a required "check-in". After you are enrolled full-time, the International Programs Advisor will register you in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). Continuing students should refer to Step 2.
2. Get a letter from your employer that confirms you have been hired, using the template provided below. Make an appointment with the International Programs Advisor and bring your employment letter to the meeting. The International Programs Advisor will provide you with a memo which confirms that you are a full-time student, in status, and eligible for work on campus.
3. Not earlier than 10 business days after arriving in the U.S., apply in person at the local Social Security Administration office in Bellingham:

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   710 Alabama St,

   Bellingham, WA 98225

   (360) 738-3952

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4. The application process is brief and simple. Ask for a "Note of Verification" at the Social Security Administration Office, which shows that you have applied for a social security number. It usually takes 2-3 weeks to receive your Social Security Card. Bring with you:
   • Your employment letter and confirmation of status memo
   • Form I-20 (F-1 status) or DS-2019 (J-1 status)
   • Passport
   • I-94 card

Not earlier than 10 business days after arriving in the U.S., apply in person at the local Social Security Administration office in downtown Bellingham, apply for a social security number in person at a local Social Security Administration office in downtown Bellingham. Bring with you:

• Your Form I-20 (updated and endorsed for practical training) or DS-2019
• Passport
• I-94 card
• F-1 students with Optional Practical Training (OPT) authorization will need to bring the above documents plus their EAD card
• J-1 exchange visitors with approved Academic Training will need to bring the above documents plus their letter for employment authorization presented by IPE, or other sponsoring agency.
• J-2 dependents with employment authorization will need to bring the above documents plus their EAD card

Helpful websites:

• Social Security Numbers for Non-citizens
• Applications for a Social Security Card