Planning ahead...

[larrysgirl 0]

Question for the wise ones...

After going through the process, what would you suggest as the least-stressful order in which to apply for SSN, getting married, etc....

Is is easier to get married right away and have your name changed BEFORE applying for SSN (instead of going in twice) or do I need that immediately so I can be employed? If someone could kindly list a brief order a the best way to do things once entering the US that would be much appreciated! Thank you in advance.

[sarah and hicham 3]

If you are planning on working with temp EAD then get your SS card right when you get here... unless you're getting married with 10 days or so of coming I would reccomend getting your SS card first.

Good luck!

[Kathryn41 3,205]

The easiest route is to apply for your social security number shortly after your arival in the US. They suggest waiting about 2 weeks after your arrival so your file has time to make it where it is going from the POE so the Social Security office can verify your legal immigration status. Many States require you to have your SSN before you can apply for a driver's license. You should check into what the requirements are for a driver's license in your State - some require Green cards, some will accept EADs and some will accept I-94s as long as they are not close to expiring. After you get married you can go back to the Social Security office and officially change your name by showing them your marriage certificate. That may take 2 or 3 weeks to arrive if it is mailed to you after the ceremony. You will need it for your AOS. Once you are married you will want to complete the AOS, the EAD if you plan to work, and the AP if you wish permission to travel outside of the country while waiting for your green card. While you don't need to do this prior to the expiry of the I-94 it is a good idea to do so as you do not acquire any 'out of status' days that way. Once you apply for an AOS your immigration status changes to 'AOS applicant'. You will also want to arrange for your name to be added to your spouse's bank account, health insurance, car insurance, and other related documents. Many of these request, but don't require, a SSN, and will be used during the AOS process to prove the bona fide nature of your marriage (co-mingling of financial assets).

This is a good question that you asked. Careful planning and attention to details will help make the whole process much smoother. Good luck with the process.

[larrysgirl 0]

Thank you for the detailed information Kathryn.