Social Security Card.

[B_J 2,752]

OK, I am really jumping the gun on this one. We're not even close to this point, but I guess it's better to know as much as I can as soon as I can.

As I read the order that we are supposed to do things, I'm confused about something. When Jessa (my fiance and the most beautiful woman in the world) finally arrives, I read that we should first get her social security card and then get married. Is there some reason we can't get married first?

Thanks for the help.

[Anh map 2,098]

The answer depends a bit on how soon after arrival you will get married. It is safest to not apply for the SS card close to the expiration of the alien's I-94 (for your fiancee that will be 90 days after she enters the US).

In our case we married a couple of weeks after arrival and then applied for the SS card a couple of weeks later. The primary reason (for us) being that there would be no name changes involved.

Take a look at the VJ Guide for getting a SS number >>> http://www.visajourney.com/content/ssn

[VanessaTony 3,567]

There are many reasons.

First, while for some people applying after marriage is fine, for others their local office doesn't realise this is okay and they tell you that your marriage means you're no longer a K1 and therefore no longer eligible for a SSN. This is of course totally wrong, but it still makes life more difficult, sometimes you win, sometimes you don't.

Usually you should wait 10 days after arriving before applying for the SSN. If your marriage is before then then I would try getting the SSN after marriage with the marriage cert. If the marriage is after that, I would get it in her maiden name as you're less likely to have issues. In the event you DO have trouble applying after marriage, you can wait till you get your EAD and apply for it then (no problems).

Having the SSN isn't required for AOS. If the SSN is still in her maiden name when filing AOS that doesn't matter (mine was and still is in my maiden name... i just haven't had a chance to get there to change it).

The SSN is required for some health insurance policies, some banks, and some other things as well. some people have had issues adding their new spouse to stuff without a SSN which is what's required when (and if) you have an AOS interview.. proof of co-mingling.

The SSA isn't infallible. I hope you have a good experience (like I did and some other) but be prepared that you might not. If in doubt, see the guide posted above, and ask to speak to a supervisor at the SSA if you continue to have issues.

** moved from "K1 Process & Procedures" to "Working & Travelling" as this is relating to a SSN **