Raj landed in California with his L-1 visa, excited to lead his company’s U.S. project. He thought the hard part was over, but it wasn’t. He couldn’t open a bank account. HR asked for a Social Security Number. His payroll got stuck. Nobody warned him that getting an SSN could take time and planning, even with a work visa.
Sound familiar? If you’re in the U.S. on an L-1 visa and trying to figure out how to get SSN with an L-1 visa, you’re in the right place. This guide breaks it all down, without the government jargon. Now, here’s how to make sure you don’t end up in Raj’s shoes.
Why Do L-1 Visa Holders Need an SSN?
As an L-1 visa holder, your Social Security Number (SSN) isn’t just a formality; it’s a requirement for daily life in the U.S.
Employers need your SSN to process payroll and report taxes. Without one, you may not receive your paycheck on time. Banks often ask for it when you open an account or apply for a credit card. Even applying for a driver’s license or renting an apartment can become complicated without it.
The SSN allows you to build credit, pay taxes, and access essential services. It’s one of the first things you should apply for once you enter the country. If you’re searching for how to get an SSN with an L-1 visa, this step-by-step guide will help you understand the process clearly.
Need help with your application or legal documentation? Contact the Law Offices of Sweta Khandelwal to get expert guidance tailored to your L-1 status.
SSN Eligibility for L-1 Visa Holders
Knowing if you’re eligible is the first step before figuring out how to get an SSN with an L-1 visa. While the process itself isn’t complicated, understanding who qualifies can save you from frustrating delays later on.
If you hold an L-1 visa, you’re considered lawfully authorized to work in the U.S. That means you’re eligible to apply for a Social Security Number. The SSA (Social Security Administration) needs proof that you’re allowed to work before they issue a number. Once they have that, you’re good to go.
You don’t need to wait for your employer or a third party to get things started. You can walk into an SSA office and begin the application yourself. Taking early action matters because SSA verifies your immigration status through the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and sometimes, that verification takes time.
Here’s who qualifies and what to keep in mind:
- L-1 visa holders: Authorized to work, so they are eligible to apply for an SSN.
- L-2 spouses: Must have an active Employment Authorization Document (EAD) before they can apply.
- Children or other dependents: If they don’t have work authorization, they’ll need to apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of an SSN.
Also, note:
- You’ll need to apply in person at an SSA office.
- SSA will only process your application once your work authorization is verified.
- It’s always better to check eligibility and gather your documents ahead of time.
Also Read: Schengen Visa Application with H-1B US Visa
How to Apply for a Social Security Number in the U.S. as a Noncitizen with an L-1 Visa?
After arriving in the U.S., wait about 10 days before applying. This gives the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) time to update your arrival information, helping the Social Security Administration (SSA) process your application more efficiently.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply at an SSA Office
- Start by finding your nearest SSA office. It doesn’t matter which location you apply to, but you can use the SSA’s website to locate one close to you.
- Next, download Form SS-5 from www.ssa.gov or grab a copy at the SSA office. This is the official application form for a Social Security Card. The form is easy to complete, but make sure your entries are accurate. Especially pay attention to:
- Item 2: SSA won’t mail your card to a foreign address. If you don’t have a U.S. home yet, use a work or family member’s address.
- Item 3: If you’re in the U.S. with work authorization but are not a citizen or permanent resident, check the box for “Legal Alien Allowed to Work.”
- Item 17: If you are applying for yourself, select “Self.”
Once you complete the form, gather your documents and head to the SSA office in person. First-time applicants cannot submit the form online or by mail.
- Documents You’ll Need
Bring the following documents when you go:
- A valid passport with an unexpired work visa (e.g., your L-1 visa)
- A printed electronic I-94 record or a white I-94 card if you entered through a land border
- The original I-797 Approval Notice
- Employment Authorization Document (Form I-766) if you’re in F-1, E-2, L-2, H-4, or I-2 status or if you’ve applied for permanent residency
- A driver’s license or other form of photo ID is recommended as extra proof of identity
If you’re unsure what documents apply to your case, consult an immigration attorney, like Sweta Khandelwal. For example, if you are an asylee or have a unique status, the requirements may differ slightly.
- Additional Notes
Some SSA offices may request more documentation than others. In some cases, you might need an original or certified Birth Certificate. If your name has changed because of marriage or divorce, bring the original or certified copies of your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or legal name change order.
What Happens Next?
At the SSA office, you’ll hand in your documents and the completed form. An officer will check everything and return your original documents right away. They’ll also give you a receipt confirming your application.
Your Social Security Card should arrive within two weeks. If you’re on temporary work status, the card will say “VALID FOR WORK ONLY WITH DHS AUTHORIZATION.” This simply shows employers that your work authorization must be current and valid.
If you later become a Green Card holder, you can return to SSA and apply for a replacement card. It will still have the same number but without the DHS authorization note. You don’t have to wait for your physical Green Card either. The temporary I-551 stamp in your passport is enough.
- What About Family Members?
If your spouse or children don’t have work authorization, they cannot apply for an SSN. However, for tax filing purposes, they can apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. We will discuss this in a later section.
Want to avoid mistakes during submission? Sweta Khandelwal can review your documents before you apply.
Once your Social Security Number (SSN) application is submitted, it usually takes 2 to 4 weeks for your card to arrive at your U.S. mailing address. The original documents you submit will be returned to you after processing.
If you applied for an SSN while filling out Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization), you don’t need to visit a Social Security office separately. Once your application is approved, you’ll receive two separate mailings: your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and your SSN card—both sent to the address listed on your form.
If your SSN card doesn’t show up within 7 business days after getting your EAD, call or visit your nearest Social Security office. You can locate your nearest office on the official SSA website or by calling 1-800-772-1213.
SSA staff can help you fill out the SS-5 application if needed. Generally, you’ll get your SSN card within 2 weeks after the SSA verifies your immigration status. If that verification takes longer, expect an additional 2-week delay.
SSA keeps your personal information secure and only shares it when legally allowed.
Also Read: EB-1C India Green Card Visa Bulletin Movement Predictions
What About My Spouse and Children?
If you’re in the U.S. on an L-1 visa, your spouse and children likely hold L-2 dependent visas. Here’s what that means for their Social Security Numbers (SSNs):
- Spouse (L-2 visa holder):
Your spouse can apply for an SSN, but only if they have work authorization. Since 2022, L-2 visa holders may be considered work-authorized “incident to status,” but SSA typically still requires them to present an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Once your spouse receives their Form I-766, they can apply for an SSN at any SSA office. - Children (L-2 visa holders):
Children on L-2 visas aren’t eligible for an SSN unless they are also authorized to work, which is rare. If you need a number for tax or dependent purposes (like filing with the IRS), you can apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. The ITIN is not an SSN, but it allows you to include your child on tax forms.
What is an ITIN, and is it the Same as an SSN?
An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is a tax processing number issued by the IRS. It’s used by individuals who are not eligible for a Social Security Number (SSN) but still need to fulfill tax obligations in the U.S.
While both an ITIN and an SSN are nine-digit numbers, they serve different purposes:
- SSN is used primarily for social security benefits, work authorization, and reporting wages to the IRS. It’s mainly for U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and those with work authorization.
- ITIN, on the other hand, is issued for tax purposes to those who aren’t eligible for an SSN, such as non-resident aliens, their spouses, and dependents.
Reach out to The Law Offices of Sweta Khandelwal to get clear, case-specific guidance. Whether it’s your first time dealing with dependent visa paperwork or you’re just unsure how the rules apply to your family, their team can walk you through the process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- I’m moving to the U.S. on an L-1 visa. Do I need an SSN before I can start working?
Yes, you need an SSN to start working for a U.S. employer. Your employer uses it to report your wages to the IRS. While you can begin the SSN application process shortly after arriving, you must have your passport, valid L-1 visa, I-94 record, and the original Form I-797 (if applicable) when you apply. Without the SSN, your employer can’t legally process your payroll. - I’m an L-1 visa holder applying for an SSN for the first time. Can I apply in a different state from my residential address?
Yes, you can. The Social Security Administration does not require you to apply in the same state listed on your application address. You can visit any SSA office in the U.S. to apply in person, as long as you bring all required original documents. - I’m visiting the U.S. before my permanent move. Can I apply for my SSN early, during a short trip?
It depends. SSA systems typically need at least 10 calendar days after your arrival to access and verify your immigration information. If you’re visiting briefly, and your immigration data hasn’t been updated in the system yet, they may not be able to process your SSN application. If your stay is long enough and your I-94 data is active, you can apply in person, even if you’re not yet permanently relocated. - Will applying in a different state delay my SSN card?
No, it won’t. SSA processes all applications centrally. So even if you apply in a different state, the card will be mailed to the address you listed on your application. Just double-check that the address is correct and active.
Conclusion
Securing your Social Security Number (SSN) is an essential step for navigating your L1 visa journey in the U.S. Stay ahead by keeping track of the necessary documents and following the correct application steps.
If you’re unsure about any part of the process, it’s best to consult with an expert who can guide you through the details. For professional assistance, Contact the Law Offices of Sweta Khandelwal today. They can help you with everything from an SSN application to ensuring your family’s paperwork is in order. Need further help with your SSN application or other visa-related matters? Sweta Khandelwal is ready to provide the support you need. Don’t wait, visit The Law Offices of Sweta Khandelwal now to make sure you’re fully prepared for your new chapter in the U.S.
Disclaimer
Please note that the prices listed for visa services are estimates and may vary in real-time. We recommend consulting the official government websites or other authoritative resources for the most up-to-date pricing information. These estimates do not constitute a guarantee of costs, and fees may change without notice.
