Who Is Eligible for a Social Security Number?
F-1 students generally have work authorization. If an F-1 provides the appropriate documentation, he/she may be assigned a work-authorization social security number after properly completing a Form SS-5, Application for Social Security Card.
When applying for a social security number the F-1 visaholder must present their Passport/Visa and I-94 Card, I-20-ID form along with a work authorization/verification letter from the University. This letter may be obtained from our Non-Resident Tax Forms page.
J-1's are admitted to take part in an Exchange Visitor program designated by the U.S. Information Agency (USIA). J-1's usually study, teach, receive training, or obtain general employment while being sponsored by an USIA approved program. Some J-1's are automatically authorized to work. Others require the permission of their sponsors.
When applying for a social security number the J-1 visaholder must present their Passport/Visa, I-94 Card, and DS-2019 then properly complete a Form SS-5, Application for Social Security Card.
If the J-1's DS-2019 form has one of the following categories checked, work authorization is automatic.
Trainee
Teacher
Professor
Alien Physician
Government Visitor
Research Scholar
Short-Term Scholar
Specialist
Camp Counselor
If the J-1's DS-2019 form has one of the following categories checked, an I-688B (Employment Authorization Card) or a work authorization letter from the University must be presented when applying for the social security number. This letter may be obtained from the International Student & Scholar (ISS) office at Purdue University.
Student
International Visitor
We realize that frequently we have visitors that may only be at the University for a day or two. If these individuals enter the United States on an F-1 or J-1 visa, they are eligible for a social security number not an ITIN number.
We also recognize that time constraints make it inconvenient for the individual to apply for a social security number in such a short period of time. However according to IRS regulations it seems that we do not have a choice.