Suppose you are working in the United States on a nonimmigrant visa. In that case, your employer will ask for your Social Security number (SSN) and proof of your legal authorization to work in the United States. Only those authorized to work in the United States by the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) can obtain an SSN. But if your visa has expired, you’ve changed employers, or you have a new visa, what happens to your SSN?
Is my SSN old? Do I need a new SSN?
Once you receive a Social Security number (SSN), you never receive a new one. The same SSN will be used for any future employment.
Is my SSN restricted?
If you are not a US citizen or lawful permanent resident, you may have a work restriction listed on your card. Restricted SSN cards will have a stamp that indicates one of the following:
- “VALID FOR WORK ONLY WITH DHS AUTHORIZATION” or “VALID FOR WORK ONLY WITH INS AUTHORIZATION.” These SSN cards have been issued to people who have temporarily been lawfully admitted to the United States and have DHS authorization to work.
- “NOT VALID FOR EMPLOYMENT.” These SSN cards have been issued to people from other countries who are either:
- Lawfully admitted to the United States without work authorization from DHS but have a valid non-work reason for needing a Social Security number
- Need a number because of a federal law requiring a Social Security number to get a benefit or service
Employers are instructed NOT to accept restricted SSN cards attached to work authorizations as a List C document for Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification.
Can I work with an SSN but no work visa?
As a foreign national, you are only authorized to work in the United States with a valid nonimmigrant visa. You are not legally authorized to work with an SSN alone. You must have a valid work visa to be legally authorized to work. Working on an SSN without a valid work visa is prohibited and is considered an immigration violation.
If your visa has expired or you have changed employers, you will require a new visa before you can begin working using your SSN.
How do I re-prove my work authorization?
If you have changed employers or you have obtained a new work visa, you must present your new immigration documents in support of your work authorization to begin working. In general, one of the following documents can be used to prove work authorization:
- A copy of your permanent resident card
- A copy of your Employment Authorization Document
- A copy of your Form I-797 Approval Notices
- A copy of your foreign passport AND your Form I-94
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding how your Social Security number (SSN) works and your work authorization is essential for compliance in the United States. Once issued an SSN, it remains yours for life, but its usage depends on maintaining valid work authorization. A restricted SSN may indicate limited work privileges and should not be used in place of a work visa. Always update your employment authorization with your employer if there are changes in your visa status, as your SSN alone does not grant permission to work.
Schedule a Consultation with an Immigration Lawyer
Citations
We Can Help!
You may have questions regarding employment in the US. We invite you to contact our team at Richards and Jurusik for detailed guidance and assistance. We aim to provide the most accurate and up-to-date information to make your immigration process smoother and less stressful. The immigration lawyers at Richards and Jurusik have decades of experience helping people to work and live in the United States. Read some of our hundreds of 5-star client reviews! Contact us today to assess your legal situation.