International F-1 visa students must receive a Social Security Number before they are able to be paid by an employer. However, you must have an actual job offer before being considered eligible for a Social Security number. The process to apply for a Social Security Number is simple, but you must complete all steps. Here is a list of documents you must bring to the Social Security Office:

1. Passport
2. I-20
3. I-94 (print the most recent receipt here: https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov/I94
4. Letter from International Student Office (Complete the Letter Request Form)
5. Letter from Director of Student Employment (Elise Aydelotte)
6. Social Security Application (fill out at office)

The Valencia Social Security Office is located at: 27200 Tourney Road, 3rd Floor, Suite 320. Valencia, CA 91355. Their hours are Monday – Friday 9:00am – 4:00pm, except Wednesdays 9:00am-12:00pm. I would suggest going about half an hour before closing in order to avoid the longest wait times. If that doesn’t work with your schedule, allow at least two hours for your visit to the SS office. Phone usage is not allowed and there is no WiFi, so plan to bring a book or some homework while you wait.

Once you have applied, the card will take up to two weeks to arrive in your mailbox. Once it does, you will be able to receive any accumulated paychecks. Take the card to the Office of Student Employment for them to make a copy and have for school records. Be sure to keep track of your timesheets during the period before you receive your card.

Guard Your SSN

You can be a victim of privacy violations and identity theft if you do not carefully handle your SSN. Do not become a victim. Inform and protect yourself. Never carry your Social Security Card and a picture identification card together. If they are lost or stolen, then it is easier for someone else to steal your identity. See the following:

SOCIAL SECURITY FAQ