How to Apply for a Social Security Number:
J-1 Students and J-1 Academic Staff
If you are an F-1 and want to apply for a social security number, click here.
Eligibility:
J-1 students must have an on campus job or be within 30 days of the start date of an off-campus job with academic training in order to be eligible for the social security number. J-1 students must also obtain a letter from the ISSO certifying the J-1 status and the on campus job.
J-1 academic staff are automatically eliglble to apply for a social security number. J-1 academic staff also need to obtain a letter of certification of the J-1 status at the ISSO.
Procedures:
Both J-1 students and J-1 academic staff must come to the ISSO to get a letter certifying you are eligible for the Social Security Number. Then, you will take the following documents to the Social Security Administration Office:
- ISSO certification letter
- I-94 Card
- DS-2019 Form
- Passport
For J-2 dependents, you must apply for employment authorization first. After receiving your work permit, you may take your work permit card along with your visa documents to apply for a social security number.
In general, you will receive your social security number within 2-3 weeks.
Location:
127 West State Street, 2nd floor
Ithaca, NY 14850
Phone: 256-3651
For more information on a Social Security Number for other non-immigrant visas, visit the Social Security Administration's web site.