Documents Needed for Replacement Social Security Card for Foreign Born Child

Key Takeaways:

• Gather proof of U.S. citizenship, identity, age, parental identity, and relationship documents, including consular reports, passports, birth certificates, and adoption decrees.

• Fill out Application Form SS-5 and mail all documents using registered mail to your local Social Security office.

• Replacement Social Security cards have no fee and typically process within 10-14 business days after submission.

What Documents Do I Need for a Replacement Social Security Card for a Child Foreign Born U.S. Citizen?

Applying for a replacement Social Security card for a child foreign-born U.S. citizen can seem complicated, but this step-by-step guide aims to simplify the process. By following this comprehensive checklist, you’ll gather the necessary documents and navigate the application process efficiently.

1. Proof of U.S. Citizenship

For a child born abroad but who is a U.S. citizen, you need to provide proof of citizenship. Acceptable documents include:

• Consular Report of Birth Abroad (Form FS-240): This form is issued by the U.S. Department of State to a child born abroad to U.S. citizen parents.
• Certificate of Citizenship: Issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for children who acquired citizenship through their U.S. parents.
• U.S. Passport: While a passport serves as both proof of citizenship and identity, ensure it’s currently valid.
• Certificate of Naturalization: If the child was naturalized as a U.S. citizen, this certificate is required.

2. Proof of Identity

To prevent fraud and ensure the child’s identity, the Social Security Administration (SSA) requires specific documents:

• U.S. Passport: This doubles as proof of citizenship and identity.
• State-Issued ID Card: For minors, some states issue identification cards if a U.S. passport is not available.
• Birth Certificate: While primarily used for younger children, it may be accepted as an identity document.

Note that identity documents must be current and show the child’s name, identifying information (such as date of birth or age), and a recent photograph.

3. Proof of Age

You need to verify the child’s age accurately:

• Birth Certificate: This is often the most straightforward form of age verification.
• Previous Social Security Card: If available, it can also serve as proof of age.

4. Proof of Parental Identity

The SSA needs to verify the identity of the person applying on behalf of the child:

• Parent’s U.S. Passport or State ID: Current, valid, and showing the parent’s name, date of birth, or age, and a recent photograph.
• Consular Report of Birth: This can sometimes establish the parental connection, though an independent ID is preferred.

5. Application Form SS-5

The Application for a Social Security Card (Form SS-5) must be completed and signed by the parent or legal guardian. This form is available online or at your local SSA office. Here’s where you can download it: Application Form SS-5.

6. Evidence of Relationship

Supporting evidence of the relationship between the child and the parents or guardians is required:

• Birth Certificate: Showing the names of the parents.
• Adoption Decree: If applicable, with the adoptive parents’ names.
• Court Order: If guardianship has been established by a court.

7. Verification of Immigration Status

For a child born abroad, even as a U.S. citizen, there may be unique circumstances where immigration status must be shown:

• Visa: If the child holds a U.S. visa, it should be presented.
• Permanent Resident Card (Green Card): For those who have transitioned through different immigration statuses.

8. Mailing the Application

When mailing the application and supporting documents, consider using registered mail for security purposes. Your local SSA office’s address can be found on the Social Security Office Locator.

Final Checklist Summary

To summarize, here’s a concise checklist to ensure you have all required documents:

• Consular Report of Birth (Form FS-240) or Certificate of Citizenship
• Child’s U.S. passport or state-issued ID
• Child’s birth certificate
• Parent’s photo identification
• Completed and signed Form SS-5
• Evidence of parental relationship
• Verification of any unique immigration status, if applicable
• Secure mailing method for application submission

Common Questions and Concerns

Is there a fee for a replacement Social Security card?
No. Replacing a Social Security card is free.

How long does the application process take?
Typically, processing takes 10-14 business days after the SSA receives your completed application and documents.

Conclusion

Applying for a replacement Social Security card for a child foreign-born U.S. citizen involves gathering and submitting a precise set of documents. Remember to ensure all submitted forms and documents are current, valid, and accurately filled out. For additional information or updates, visit the Social Security Administration’s official website.

Still Got Questions? Read Below to Know More

Can my adopted child from another country get a replacement Social Security card if we lost the original one?

Yes, your adopted child from another country can get a replacement Social Security card if the original one has been lost. To do this, you’ll need to follow the steps below:

1. Provide Proof of Identity: You will need to provide documentation that proves your child’s identity. Acceptable documents for an adopted child include a U.S. passport, an adoption decree, or a Certificate of Naturalization/Citizenship.
2. Provide Proof of Citizenship or Lawful Immigration Status: Since your child is adopted from another country, you may need to show proof of their U.S. citizenship or lawful immigration status. For an adopted child, this can include a Certificate of Citizenship or a U.S. passport.
3. Complete Application for a Social Security Card: You will need to fill out Form SS-5 – the application for a Social Security card. You can download this form from the Social Security Administration’s website.

Once you have gathered the necessary documentation, you can either mail them to your local Social Security office or go there in person. Remember, original documents or certified copies by the issuing agency are required; photocopies or notarized copies are not accepted.

To ensure that you have all the correct information and details on where to send your application or which office to visit, you can check the official Social Security Administration (SSA) website at www.ssa.gov. Here, you’ll find guidance on how to replace a Social Security card for your child and locate your nearest Social Security office.

Remember that there’s no fee for a replacement Social Security card. Be cautious about private entities or websites that offer to assist you with this for a fee. Always refer to the official SSA resources for accurate and cost-free assistance.

How do I apply for my foreign-born child’s Social Security card if I’m a single parent and don’t have proof of my spouse’s identity?

If you need to apply for a Social Security card for your foreign-born child and you are a single parent without proof of your spouse’s identity, you can still complete the application process by following these steps:

1. Fill out the Social Security card application (Form SS-5) for your child. You can download the form from the official Social Security Administration (SSA) website: Application for a Social Security Card (Form SS-5).

2. Provide the required documents that prove your child’s identity, immigration status, age, and your relationship to the child. As a single parent, you’ll need to provide your own identity proof and documents that establish your legal custody or guardianship. If you do not have proof of your spouse’s identity, you should explain your situation to the Social Security officer, and they will guide you on what alternative documents you may provide. For the full list of acceptable documents, you can visit the SSA’s webpage on Social Security Numbers for Children.

3. Once you have filled out the form and gathered the necessary documentation, you can either mail or bring them to your local Social Security office. You can find the nearest Social Security office using the SSA’s office locator tool: Social Security Office Locator.

Remember, all documents must be either originals or copies certified by the issuing agency. The Social Security Administration will not accept photocopies or notarized copies. If you have any questions or need assistance during the process, you can call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 or contact your local Social Security office.

What if my child’s U.S. passport expired and we need a new Social Security card – what other ID can we use?

If your child’s U.S. passport has expired and you need a new Social Security card for them, there are other forms of identification you can use. The Social Security Administration (SSA) accepts various documents as proof of your child’s identity. According to the SSA’s guidelines, you can use:

1. A State-issued non-driver’s identification card.
2. Adoption decree.
3. Doctor, clinic, or hospital record.
4. Religious record.
5. School or daycare center record.
6. School identification card.

It’s important to note that any documents you provide must be either originals or copies certified by the issuing agency. The SSA will not accept photocopies or notarized copies of documents. The document should also be current (not expired) and show your child’s name, identifying information (such as the child’s date of birth or age), and, preferably, a recent photograph.

For the most accurate and updated information, check the official Social Security Administration website, which provides detailed information about acceptable documents for obtaining a Social Security card:
SSA – Learn What Documents You Need

If you have limited options and are unable to meet these requirements, you may reach out to the nearest Social Security office for assistance. They may be able to work with you to identify other acceptable documents. To find your local Social Security office, use the SSA’s office locator tool:
SSA – Find Your Local Social Security Office

In any case, addressing this issue promptly is crucial to avoid potential complications arising from the lack of a valid ID or Social Security card for your child.

My child has dual citizenship; do I still follow the same process for her Social Security card replacement?

If your child has dual citizenship and needs a replacement Social Security card, the process you follow is generally the same as for any child who is a U.S. citizen. Regardless of her dual citizenship status, if she was previously issued a Social Security number (SSN), you can request a replacement card. Here is what you need to do:

1. Gather the required documents: You will need to provide original proof of your child’s U.S. citizenship if not already established on the Social Security record. Acceptable documents include a U.S. birth certificate or U.S. passport. In addition, you will need proof of your child’s identity and evidence of your relationship to the child (your ID and her birth certificate listing you as a parent).
2. Complete an application: Fill out the Application for a Social Security Card (Form SS-5). You can download the form from the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) website.
3. Submit the application: Take or mail the completed application and original documents to your local Social Security office. Always check the official SSA website for details on where and how to submit your application, as processes may vary or change.

It’s important to know that the SSA will not accept photocopies or notarized copies of documents. They must be either the original documents or copies certified by the agency that issued them.

For more information and to download the SS-5 form, you can visit the official Social Security Administration website at www.ssa.gov.

“You must present original documents or copies certified by the agency that issued them. We cannot accept photocopies or notarized copies of documents.”

Remember, these requirements are in place to protect your child’s identity and ensure the security of her Social Security record. If you need further assistance or have specific questions regarding your situation, it’s always a good idea to contact the SSA directly or visit your local office.

If my child was born abroad and never had a Social Security card, does the process for getting one differ from the replacement process?

Yes, the process for obtaining a Social Security card for a child born abroad who never had one does differ from the process of getting a replacement card. Here’s what you need to know:

For a Child Born Abroad:
1. Obtain a Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA) or a birth certificate: You’ll need to report your child’s birth to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate to get a CRBA, which can be used to establish your child’s citizenship.
2. Apply for a Social Security Number (SSN): You can apply for your child’s SSN while abroad at the U.S. embassy or consulate or, if you’ve returned to the United States, at a Social Security Administration (SSA) office. You’ll need to provide proof of the child’s citizenship (CRBA or a birth certificate if the child was born in a country that issues certificates to U.S. citizen children), the child’s identification, and both parents’ identification.
3. Fill out Form SS-5-FS: This is the application form for a Social Security card for U.S. citizens who are applying outside the United States.

Here’s a link to the Social Security Administration’s page for “Social Security Numbers for Children”: SSA – Social Security Numbers for Children.

For Replacement of a Social Security Card:
1. The process is relatively simpler. As long as you have not changed any of your child’s personal details such as name, a birth certificate might not be necessary if SSA has already established birth.
2. Fill out Form SS-5: This form is the general application for a Social Security card, which is also used for replacements.
3. Provide required documents: These include proof of identity, and if it’s the first replacement, SSA might need to see proof of birth again.

Here’s a direct link to the SSA’s instructions for replacing a Social Security card: SSA – Replace Your Social Security Card.

Keep in mind that all applications and document submissions are free of charge. When applying for your child’s first Social Security card or a replacement, ensure all documents are either originals or copies certified by the issuing agency. The SSA does not accept photocopies or notarized copies of documents.

Learn Today:

Glossary of Immigration Terms

1. Consular Report of Birth Abroad (Form FS-240):
   A document issued by the U.S. Department of State to certify that a child born overseas to U.S. citizen parents has acquired U.S. citizenship at birth.

2. Certificate of Citizenship:
   A document issued by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that serves as proof of a person’s U.S. citizenship. It is typically given to individuals who acquired citizenship through their U.S. citizen parents.

3. Application for a Social Security Card (Form SS-5):
   The official form needed to apply for an original, replacement, or corrected Social Security card. It must be completed and submitted to the Social Security Administration.

4. Permanent Resident Card (Green Card):
   A card that certifies the holder’s status as a lawful permanent resident of the United States, allowing them to live and work permanently in the country.

5. Consular Report of Birth:
   An official record used to document the birth of a U.S. citizen abroad, establishing the relationship between the child and the parents. It may also help verify the parents’ identity when applying for the child’s Social Security card.

This Article In A Nutshell:

Replacing a Social Security card for a child born abroad as a U.S. citizen requires specific documents. Ensure proof of citizenship, identity, age, parental identity, and relationship, along with Form SS-5. Submit with evidence of immigration status and use registered mail. Processing typically takes 10-14 business days; replacements are free. Visit SSA.gov for updates.
— By VisaVerge.com

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Read more:

1. Documents Needed for Child’s Replacement Social Security Card
2. Documents Needed for Adult Noncitizen Replacement Social Security Card
3. Documents Needed for Noncitizen Child’s Social Security Card
4. Documents Needed for Replacement Social Security Card for Foreign-Born U.S. Citizen
5. Documents Needed for Replacement Social Security Card for U.S. Adults