Skip to content
Social Security Online
Social Security Numbers and Immigrant Visas
SSNVisa Home SSA logo: link to Social Security Online home

What You Need To Do

 

We have listed the whole process here, but you only need to do Step 2!
collage of documents
 
Who... Does What...

Step 1

U.S. Embassies
and
U.S. Consulates
Collect information needed for a Social Security number on Form DS-230 (Application for Immigrant Visa and Alien Registration), as part of the immigrant visa process.
(.pdf format)blank spaceAdobe Reader Download Page

Step 2

the word you with an up arrow
Answer "Yes" to Questions 43a. and 43b.on Form DS-230

43a. Do you want the Social Security Administration to assign you an SSN (and issue a card) or issue you a new card (if you have an SSN)? You must answer "Yes" to this question and to the "Consent To Disclosure" in order to receive an SSN and/or card.

box with red checkmark insideYes empty box No

43b. CONSENT TO DISCLOSURE;
I authorize disclosure from this form to the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS), the Social Security Administration (SSA), such other U.S. Government agencies as may be required for the purpose of assigning me an SSN and issuing me a Social Security card, and I authorize the SSA to share my SSN with the INS.

box with red checkmark insideYes empty box No

The applicant's response does not limit or restrict the Government's ability to obtain his or her SSN, or other information on this form, for enforcement or other purposes as authorized by law.

Step 3

U.S. Embassies
and
U.S. Consulates


Send your information to Department of Homeland Security.

Step 4

Department
of
Homeland Security

Admits you into the U.S.

Sends your information to the Social Security Administration.

Step 5

 

Social Security
Administration

If you don't receive your card within 3 weeks of being admitted to the U.S., go into the nearest Social Security office or Card Center with proof of age, identity and employment authorization:

http://www.ssa.gov/locator

http://www.ssa.gov/cardcenters/cardcenterinfo.html

 

back to the top

 
 USA.gov: Portal to U.S. government agencies Privacy Policy | Website Policies & Other Important Information | Site Map
Last reviewed or modified Tuesday Jan 26, 2010
Need Larger Text?