Social security application procedure

[missin miss d 1]

Hello Guys,

Got into the US last weekend. I have heard different stories with regards the social security number application. Well I understand the procedure changed as one would have to wait about 3weeks from time of entry to apply for the social security number. Would love to hear from anyone who has recently applied for the social security number and if this is true about the wait cos honestly I do not want to make the journey to the local office only to be told to wait for 3 weeks before making the application.

God bless you as you offer your advice. Thank you

[CQ & CS 2]

I went two days after I landed and they told me to come back in two weeks since my record was not in their system yet. I went back two weeks later and I was verified in the system with no problem.

[amykathleen2005 441]

This is not a new change, they always advise that you should wait at least a few weeks to that your entrance into the US is logged unto their computer systems.

[NigeriaorBust 4,087]

Social security will check the immigration database to validate your documents so you have to be in the database. Usually 3 weeks is enough time. If it is entered wrong you have to deal with it though immigration inspection. Joseph needed 3 visits to get it straightened out.

[Ban Hammer 13,334]

your best bet is to ask social security based questions in this forum as this is where those highly knowledgeable of the social security process hang out and answer questions:

http://www.visajourney.com/forums/forum/115-working-traveling-during-us-immigration/

This forum discusses working and traveling for US immigrants both before and after obtaining US Permanent Residence. Employment Authorization Documents (EAD), Advance Parole (AP) and Social Security Numbers (SSN) are discussed here.

[CeCe 0]

Definitely wait the 2 weeks, it will save you some headaches in the future. Just a tip, if you go and they say you are not in the system then wait another week and go back. Otherwise they will have to verify it manually and that could take 4-6 weeks. Good luck!

[missin miss d 1]

thanx alot guys....really appreciate the prompt response

[DebbyNSeyi 15]

I don't understand. If you checked off the box on the DS-230 where it asks if an SS# is needed, don't they send you a card automatically in the mail? Do you still have to personally show up at an SSA office to get the card?

[reeses16 8]

The DS-230 is completed by everyone who receives a K1 or IR-1/CR-1 visa.

If you have an IR-1/ CR-1 and check the box - you WILL receive a SS Card by mail in approximately 2 weeks after entering the US.

If you have a K1 and check the box - you will NOT receive a SS Card. You must apply at the SS Administration Office.

It doesn't make sense that there would be a check box and not everyone who selects this option receives the card by mail. But thats the way its.

Missin Miss D, it looks like you do not need to apply for the card at the office.

Edited February 2, 2011 by reeses16

[Afrikan Queen 11]

I went two days after I landed and they told me to come back in two weeks since my record was not in their system yet. I went back two weeks later and I was verified in the system with no problem.

Takes about 2 weeks to be entered in their system.