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Social Security Numbers and Immigrant Visas
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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.
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Step 2

the word you with an up arrow
Answer "Yes" to Questions 33a. and 33b.on Form DS-230

33a. 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

33b. 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

Mails your Social Security number card to your U.S. mailing address.

Call SSA toll-free at 1-800-772-1213, if you don't get your card within 3 weeks of being admitted to the U.S.

 

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Last reviewed or modified Wednesday Apr 01, 2009
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