Question about SSN(k-1)

[minnew 4]

Hello all!

I have a couple questiona relating to SSN. I have an SSN from when I was in the US under F-1 visa and OPT(optional practical training), the EAD is expired as I am back in Canada now. The state I will be moving to requires an SSN on the marriage licence application.

1. When I come back to the US on K-1 visa and apply for my SSN will I keep the same number that is on my old SSN card?

2. Do I need to wait until I receive the SSN card from SSA to apply for marriage licence?

3. Can SSA office give me proof that I have applied for a new SSN to be able to apply for marriage licence?

[YuAndDan 153]

1) If you already have a card you dont need to apply for a NEW number, SSA issues a person a number for LIFE, if you misplaced the card you will apply for a replacement card.

2) NO, Most states allow non-immigrants to apply for one without an SSN.

3) They may give you a receipt, however the card tends to arrive within 10 days or so of applying for it.

[minnew 4]

Thank you for the reply!

So when I apply for the SSN it will just be a change of information...immigration status and not authorized for employment(no EAD until AOS), but keep the same number! That is a huge weight off my shoulders! I will already be in their "system." Is it still advisable to wait about 2 weeks before applying after arriving?

[YuAndDan 153]

Thank you for the reply!

So when I apply for the SSN it will just be a change of information...immigration status and not authorized for employment(no EAD until AOS), but keep the same number! That is a huge weight off my shoulders! I will already be in their "system." Is it still advisable to wait about 2 weeks before applying after arriving?

Only if you misplaced the card.

[I'm Gone 60]

If you no longer have the card that was issued to you, when you apply for a replacement card, also ask for an SSN Verification Printout That will give you some proof of your assigned SSN until you can be issued a replacement card. Just be sure to say you need it for a job.

Just because you have been assigned an SSN as an F-1 doesn't mean getting the replacement card as a K-1 is a sure thing. Your K-1 status still needs to be verified and no telling how long that will take.

[minnew 4]

I still have the card that says (Valid for work only with INS authorization), I understand that I will have to wait until my arrival record is in the system from entering on K-1. I will be on K-1 when I apply for the SSN and I do not plan on applying for EAD until AOS. What will my new card when it arrives say? Will they allow me to keep my old card or surrender it? If they ask me to surrender it I will ask for proof that I have been assigned a number in order to get a few needed things.

[I'm Gone 60]

I still have the card that says (Valid for work only with INS authorization), I understand that I will have to wait until my arrival record is in the system from entering on K-1. I will be on K-1 when I apply for the SSN and I do not plan on applying for EAD until AOS. What will my new card when it arrives say? Will they allow me to keep my old card or surrender it? If they ask me to surrender it I will ask for proof that I have been assigned a number in order to get a few needed things.

Until you get married an apply for an SSN card with your married name, the card you have is fine. Even then if issued a card it will have "Valid For Work Only With DHS Authorization" printed on it. Once your AOS is approved and you have either an I-551 stamp or card you can apply for an unrestricted card.

They may ask for the old card back, but you are not required to give it up. Better to just say the dog ate your old card when applying for a replacement. LOL

RM 00201.080 Field Office (FO) Disposal of Returned Social Security Number (SSN) Cards:

http://web.archive.org/web/20060210014436/.../lnx/0100201080

2. Card Returned With Request For Replacement Card or New SSN

If the applicant has a card and requests a replacement card (duplicate or corrected) or a new SSN:

-- Ask the applicant to return the old SSN card. (If the applicant does not have the card with him or her, remind the applicant to return the old card to SSA for destruction or to keep the old card in a secure place [not in a wallet or purse]).

NOTE: Do not forcefully confiscate the SSN card if the applicant refuses to relinquish it. Similarly, return the old SSN card if the applicant requests that it be given back.

[minnew 4]

Awesome! Thank you! One more reason for him(USC) to get us a dog!! LOL!