Your social security number, often abbreviated to SSN, is a number you get from the Social Security Administration (SSA), and is issued only once (meaning that this number will never change throughout your lifetime (you can apply for a replacement SSN card if you misplace it). The SSA has offices throughout the US, and you will most likely be able to visit an office in any major area.
However, you do not necessarily need to show up in person to receive your SSN. If you require a replacement TIN, you can get your SSN online. This can be done at the SSA’s website, but please bear in mind that the following states are currently excluded from this scheme: Alabama, Connecticut, Minnesota, Nevada, New Hampshire, Ohio, Oklahoma, Orego,n Utah, and West Virginia. You’ll need a mySocialSecurity account.
To apply for your social security number, you need to visit one of the offices of the SSA. Bring with you your passport, eligibility documents (work permit, for example), and the filled out form SS-5. You’ll also need to provide a valid e-mail address, so you can receive the physical SSN card which will be posted to you. This happens a few weeks after your application has been approved.
Once your SSN card arrives, you might notice a few restrictions printed on it. If you do not understand these, you can contact the SSA on their toll-free number at 1-800-772-1213.