Foreign nationals authorized to work in the U.S. must obtain a Social Security Number (SSN) from the Social Security Administration (SSA) to complete employment documentation, enroll in payroll, and comply with tax requirements. Historically, this process was streamlined—many noncitizen workers could request their SSNs simultaneously with their work authorization on a single immigration form.

However, recent policy changes affecting coordination between U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and the SSA have disrupted this convenience. As a result, newly authorized workers and their employers should prepare for delays and additional procedural steps in the SSN application process.

Policy Change: USCIS Ends SSN Data Sharing with SSA

Previously, individuals applying for Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, could also request an SSN within the same filing. This integration allowed F-1 students, H-4 dependent spouses, and other eligible noncitizens to automatically receive SSNs upon approval of their work permits.

As of early 2025, USCIS has officially terminated its data-sharing agreement with SSA. All SSN requests must now be submitted separately through the SSA. This shift impacts all employment-authorized foreign nationals, including those on nonimmigrant visas and new lawful permanent residents.

Impact on Noncitizen Workers: A Two-Step SSN Application Process

Foreign nationals who have obtained work authorization but do not yet have an SSN will now need to complete a manual, two-step application process:

Step 1: Submit Online SSN Application

Complete the SSN application via the SSA’s online portal. You’ll need to provide:

• A U.S. mailing address

• Details about your original immigration documents to verify identity, age, and work authorization

Tip: You may begin this process before arriving in the U.S., but must have your U.S. address ready.

Step 2: Attend an In-Person SSA Appointment

You must visit a local SSA office within 45 days of your online submission. At the appointment:

• Bring original immigration documents (no copies or notarized versions accepted)

• SSA will verify your information and, if approved, issue your SSN card by mail

⚠️ Note: While an SSN is not required to begin work, delays in receiving it may affect payroll setup and tax reporting.

Guidance for Employers: I-9s, E-Verify, and Payroll Compliance

These changes have important implications for HR, People Operations, and compliance teams onboarding noncitizen employees. Here’s what to keep in mind:

I-9 Forms & Tax Documents

• Employees can begin working without an SSN. On required forms, use all zeroes as a placeholder.

• Once the SSN is issued, update these documents accordingly.

E-Verify Process

• You cannot create an E-Verify case until the SSN is available.

• Complete the I-9 form and allow the employee to begin work.

• Run the E-Verify check as soon as the SSN is received.

Do not delay an employee’s start date solely due to an SSN application delay. The law does not require an SSN to commence employment.

How Meltzer Hellrung Can Help

We’re advising clients to adjust onboarding workflows and communication with foreign national employees. If your organization is expecting new hires in need of SSNs, we recommend proactively preparing them for these added steps.

To receive individualized guidance or support, please reach out to your Meltzer Hellrung attorney.