Documents Needed for Adult Noncitizen Replacement Social Security Card

Key Takeaways:

• Noncitizens need proof of immigration status, identity, and possibly age verification to replace a Social Security card.
• Required documents include Form I-551, I-766, I-94, unexpired foreign passport, or USCIS-issued work permit.
• Submit documents in-person or by mail with Form SS-5; students and exchange visitors need additional documentation.

What Documents Are Required for a Replacement Social Security Card for an Adult Noncitizen?

Applying for a replacement Social Security card if you’re an adult noncitizen involves gathering a specific set of documents. Unlike U.S. citizens, noncitizens must provide additional evidence to verify their identity and legal presence in the country. This blog post provides a detailed checklist to help you prepare these documents quickly and accurately.

Proof of Immigration Status

The first thing you need is proof of your immigration status. This crucial document provides evidence of your lawful presence in the United States.

• Form I-551: Commonly known as a Green Card, this permanent resident card is necessary if you are a lawful permanent resident.
• Form I-766: This Employment Authorization Card is provided to several categories of noncitizens allowed to work in the U.S.
• Form I-94: This Arrival/Departure Record, issued by the United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP), shows your immigration status and date of entry into the United States.

Proof of Identity

You must also present proof of your identity which corroborates your legal name and other personal details. This can include:

• Unexpired Foreign Passport: Your passport must be valid and current. An expired passport will not be accepted as proof of identity.
• USCIS-issued Work Permit: If you have an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), this can also serve as proof of identity.

Age Verification

Though not always required, some applications may necessitate verification of your age. Acceptable documents include:

• Birth Certificate: Your birth certificate can be a valid form of age verification. However, it needs to be either in English or translated officially.
• Hospital Record of Birth: If you don’t have your birth certificate, a record from the hospital where you were born can also serve this purpose.

Form SS-5

For any Social Security-related applications, including obtaining a replacement card, you need to fill out Form SS-5. This is the official Application for a Social Security Card.

• You can find Form SS-5 on the Social Security Administration’s website. Ensure to complete this form accurately, as errors could lead to delays in processing your application.

How to Submit Documents?

Understanding how to submit your documents properly is vital to ensure your application is processed without delays.

In-Person Submission

Most Social Security offices offer in-person submission of documents, which is often the fastest and most reliable method.

1. Locate a Social Security Office: Use the Social Security Administration’s office locator to find the nearest one.
2. Prepare Originals: When visiting the office, you must bring original documents. Photocopies are not accepted.
3. Interview: Some noncitizens might be required to attend an interview. Be prepared to answer questions about your application and present your documents during this meeting.

Mailing Documents

If in-person submission is not an option, you can mail your documents to your local Social Security office.

1. Original Documents: You need to send original documents through the mail, which carries risks but is sometimes unavoidable.
2. Return of Documents: The Social Security Administration promises to return your documents after processing your application. Using registered mail might give you peace of mind and tracking capabilities.

Special Considerations for Noncitizens

Different categories of noncitizens might need to provide additional or alternative documentation:

Students on F-1 or M-1 Visas

• Form I-20: Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status.
• Letter from Designated School Official (DSO): It should confirm your status and intent to continue schooling.

Exchange Visitors on J-1 or J-2 Visas

• Form DS-2019: Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (J-1) Status is essential.
• Sponsor Verification: You may need a letter from your program sponsor confirming your status.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What if I Lost My Immigration Documents?

“If you’ve lost your immigration documents, you need to replace them before applying for a Social Security card,” advises Maria Gomez, a legal advisor specializing in immigration. “Contact USCIS for replacements immediately.”

Can I Use a Domestic Identity Document?

Domestic documents alone, like a U.S. driver’s license, aren’t usually sufficient for noncitizens. They must be accompanied by proof of lawful presence.

How Long Does the Process Take?

Processing times can vary. “Typically, you can expect your replacement card within 10 to 14 business days after your application is approved,” states the Social Security Administration.

Is There a Fee?

The good news is there is no fee to apply for a Social Security card, whether it’s your first application or a replacement.

Useful Government Resources

For the latest, most accurate information, and to download or access forms, visit the official Social Security Administration website. The USCIS website also provides valuable resources for replacing lost immigration documents and understanding your visa status.

By following this detailed checklist, you can ensure a smoother journey towards obtaining your replacement Social Security card. Keep this guide handy and refer back to it as needed to make the application process as stress-free as possible.

Still Got Questions? Read Below to Know More

Can I still get a Social Security card if my birth certificate is from a small country and not in English?

Yes, you can still get a Social Security card even if your birth certificate is from a small country and is not in English. When you apply for a Social Security number (SSN), the Social Security Administration (SSA) requires you to provide evidence of your age, identity, and citizenship or immigration status, but they do accept documents from other countries. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Translation of Birth Certificate: If your birth certificate is not in English, you will need to provide a certified translation. The translator must certify that they are competent to translate the foreign language to English and that the translation is correct.
2. Additional Documents: Along with your translated birth certificate, you will need to provide other documents that prove your identity and legal immigration status. This often includes a passport, visa, and/or documents from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

It’s important to submit original documents or copies certified by the issuing agency. The SSA does not accept photocopies or notarized copies. After you have gathered your translated birth certificate and required documents, you’ll need to fill out the Application for a Social Security Card (Form SS-5) and submit it at your local Social Security office.

For more detailed information on the required documents and the application process, visit the SSA’s official website: How To Get A New, Replacement Or Corrected Card.

Remember, a birth certificate from a small country is just as valid as one from a larger country for the purposes of applying for a Social Security card, as long as it meets the SSA’s requirements and is properly translated and certified.

What should I do if my foreign passport gets stolen while waiting for my replacement Social Security card?

If your foreign passport gets stolen while you’re waiting for a replacement Social Security card, it’s important to take immediate action to protect your identity and comply with immigration regulations. Here’s what you should do:

1. Report the Theft:
   • Contact the local police where the theft occurred, and file a police report. Keep a copy of the report for your records.
   • Notify your country’s embassy or consulate about the theft. They can guide you on getting a temporary travel document or a replacement passport. To find your country’s embassy or consulate in the U.S., visit the Department of State’s website: Embassies & Consulates.
2. Notify Relevant U.S. Authorities:
   • Inform the Social Security Administration (SSA) about the theft and that you have a pending replacement card. You can call them at 1-800-772-1213 or visit your local SSA office. For more information, check the SSA’s website: Social Security Administration.
   • If you are in the U.S. on a visa, report the loss to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and follow their guidance. Keep track of all correspondences. Check the USCIS website for instructions: Report a Lost/Stolen Green Card.
3. Safeguard Your Identity:
   • Monitor your financial accounts for any unusual activity.
   • Consider using an identity theft protection service.

Remember, losing important documents like a passport can be stressful, but following these steps will help you navigate the situation and safeguard your personal information.

Can a friend deliver my Social Security card application documents to the office for me if I am unable to go?

Yes, a friend can submit your Social Security card application documents on your behalf if you cannot go in person. However, it’s important to note that while a friend can drop off the documents at a Social Security office, they cannot represent you or do business for you unless they have official authorization. This means they can only deliver the documents; they cannot discuss your case or handle other aspects of the process for you.

When having someone else drop off your documents, make sure you have everything correctly filled out and signed:

1. The completed SS-5 Form, which is the application for a Social Security card.
2. Original or certified copies of documents proving your identity, U.S. citizenship or immigration status, and age.

For more specific rules and to ensure that your application is complete, refer to the official Social Security Administration (SSA) website or directly contact an SSA office. You can find the SS-5 Form and detailed instructions on the Social Security Administration’s official website at https://www.ssa.gov/forms/ss-5.pdf.

Remember that “The Social Security Administration does not have an online appointment scheduler.” If you need any assistance or to confirm current procedures due to periodic changes or updates, it’s best to call the SSA’s toll-free number at 1-800-772-1213 or visit the SSA website at https://www.ssa.gov/ for the most current information.

Always ensure the security of your personal information. Handing over sensitive documents should be done with caution and trust in the person delivering your application.

What happens if the Social Security office loses my original documents I mailed for the card application?

If the Social Security office loses your original documents that you mailed for the card application, the first thing to do is contact them immediately. You can reach them by phone at their toll-free number, 1-800-772-1213, or visit your local Social Security office in person. When you speak with a representative, explain the situation and provide any tracking information if you sent your documents by registered mail. The Social Security Administration (SSA) is responsible for helping you recover or replace your lost documents.

Here are the steps you should follow:

1. Reach Out to the SSA: Contact the Social Security office as soon as you suspect your documents are lost.
2. Provide Information: Be ready to provide specifics of your initial application, including what documents were sent, when they were mailed, and tracking numbers if available.
3. Document Replacement: In case the documents cannot be found, the SSA will guide you on the steps to obtain certified copies of your important documents, like birth certificates or immigration papers, from the appropriate issuing agencies.

“If an original document you submitted was lost, we will help you get it replaced,” as stated by the SSA on their official website.

It’s also good practice to keep copies of all documents you send to the SSA. If you have concerns about mailing original documents, you can also present them in person at a Social Security office. For more information on documents and the Social Security card application process, visit the official SSA website: Social Security Administration.

Is there a temporary document I can use for work while I wait for my Social Security card replacement?

Yes, while you wait for your Social Security card replacement, you can use other documents to satisfy Form I-9 requirements temporarily. Employers must verify your identity and employment authorization using Form I-9. According to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), you can present a receipt showing you’ve applied for a Social Security card replacement if it’s used within 90 days of hire. Here are the steps and documents you can use:

1. Receipts: If you have applied for a replacement card, you can use a Form I-797, Notice of Action, as a receipt to show you have applied for a new Social Security card. This receipt is acceptable for I-9 purposes for 90 days from the hire date.
   • After you receive your replacement Social Security card, you must show it to your employer to update your I-9 records.
2. List of Acceptable Documents: In the meantime, you can present other documents to prove your identity and work authorization. These include:
   • A U.S. passport or a passport from your country of citizenship with a visa, if applicable.
   • A birth certificate along with a government-issued photo ID.
   • An Employment Authorization Document (EAD) from USCIS.
   • A Permanent Resident Card or Alien Registration Receipt Card (Form I-551).
3. Permanent Resident or Work Visa Holders: If you are a permanent resident or a holder of a work visa, showing your Green Card, EAD, or visa along with your foreign passport can also be your proof for work eligibility.

Please make sure to refer to the official USCIS website for the most current information on acceptable documents for Form I-9. Here is the link to the list of acceptable documents: USCIS – Acceptable Documents for Form I-9.

Additionally, for more information on applying for or replacing your Social Security card, visit the official Social Security Administration (SSA) website: SSA – Social Security Number and Card.

Learn Today:

Glossary of Terms

1. Form I-551 (Green Card): A permanent resident card issued to lawful permanent residents as proof of their status in the United States.

2. Form SS-5: The Application for a Social Security Card, required for obtaining a new or replacement Social Security card.

3. Form I-94: An Arrival/Departure Record issued by the United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) that shows a noncitizen’s immigration status and date of entry into the U.S.

4. Employment Authorization Document (EAD): Also known as Form I-766, this card allows certain noncitizens to work legally in the United States and can serve as a proof of identity.

5. Form DS-2019: A Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (J-1) Status, necessary for J-1 visa holders as proof of their purpose and eligibility for participation in specific exchange visitor programs.

This Article In A Nutshell:

To replace a Social Security card as an adult noncitizen, gather crucial documents like Form I-551, Form I-766, proof of identity, age verification, and Form SS-5. Submit in person or by mail, ensuring original documents are shared. Access the SS-5 on the SSA website. No fees apply. Follow this guide for a smoother application process.
— By VisaVerge.com

Disclaimer: If you use any information from this article, link back to the original article URL on VisaVerge.com. Thank you for respecting our content and giving proper credit.

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