Driving License & SSN

[Englishsammy 17]

Hey

Just a couple of quick questions - I'll be arriving in the states in 3 weeks time and getting married 3 weeks after that.

I won't be flying into JFK so won't get work authorisation. I can apply for my SSN after around 2 weeks right? What about my drivers license - can I apply for that when I receive my SSN?

Can I apply for my EAD before we are married or does it have to be after (when I am applying for AOS)?

Also how long after marriage can i apply for AOS...it may sound stupid but it states that a certified copy of the marriage certificate has to be sent with the package...

Thanks, i'm getting a little anxious about all this!

Sam

[canucker18 0]

You can apply for your SSN after the 2 weeks. The general consensus is that it takes 2 weeks for you to be in the SAVE system which is the system that links your entering the country with your immigration status with your SSN people, etc etc. So, if you go in after 2 weeks you should be in the system.

The Drivers license is different for every state. You will need to check with your local motor vehicles registry.

Technically you can apply for an EAD before you get married, but the second you get married that EAD is null and void and often times people who apply for it end up getting married before they even get the EAD, so don't bother.

When you apply for AOS, you'll also want to apply for your EAD with it.

As for AOS, you can and should apply as soon as you can after you are married. You do indeed need a copy of the marriage certificate. So, you need to make sure that when you get married, you can get your hands on the certificate. We spoke to our local town hall and minister who performed the ceremony and explained the urgency of the situation. We got out certificate 3 days after we were married.

There are some great guides along the top here to help with the AOS portion. Just remember to get all your forms off the USCIS website and check your fees because they changed just recently.

I hope this helps to answer your questions

Good Luck on your journey

Edited May 4, 2006 by canucker18

[Englishsammy 17]

Thanks so much! It was really helpful.....I've read the guides but just wanted a little confirmation!

[Chez 0]

Hey

Just a couple of quick questions - I'll be arriving in the states in 3 weeks time and getting married 3 weeks after that.

I won't be flying into JFK so won't get work authorisation. I can apply for my SSN after around 2 weeks right? What about my drivers license - can I apply for that when I receive my SSN?

Can I apply for my EAD before we are married or does it have to be after (when I am applying for AOS)?

Also how long after marriage can i apply for AOS...it may sound stupid but it states that a certified copy of the marriage certificate has to be sent with the package...

Thanks, i'm getting a little anxious about all this!

Sam

Hi Sam,

I arrived in the US from the UK in September 2005. As you are coming on a K1 visa you will marry within the 90 days. Regarding your SSN you can apply for this after you get married and they will type on it - that you are not authorised to work without permission from homeland security. I suggest you apply for your EAD and AOS after the wedding as you will need to put a copy of your wedding certificate.

Don't get anxious - because you will need to concentrate on settling into US life. You will also find that things here take time - this has been my experience. For example we got married in Nov 2005 (I arrived here in Setpember) I applied for EAD in Nov 2005 and still waiting.

This site really does help you - as people give their experience

All the best

Cheryl