Social Security Card
In order to be paid by Cal Poly, J-1 scholars and interns must have a U.S. Social Security Card. If you have already been issued a U.S. Social Security Card in the past, you must use that card, so be sure to bring it with you.
Once you have completed the arrival check-in process and your SEVIS record has been validated by the International Center, you may apply for a Social Security Card. However, you should wait ten days after your arrival to the U.S. to apply to allow time for the Social Security office to receive your arrival data from Customs and Border Protection. If you apply too soon, it could delay your application processing time.
Complete Application Form SS-5
Complete the Application Form SS-5 provided at the Social Security Office or print it out before going to the office.- Question 1 of the form “Name To Be Shown on Card”- enter your name exactly as it appears on your passport:
- First name: First name after the characters ">>" on the bottom of your passport
- Full Middle name (if applicable): Other name/s after ">>". No not use initials unless this is how it appears on your passport.
- Last name (surname): Name/s appearing before the characters ">>" excluding the country code.
- Do not enter initials for any names unless this is how it appears on your passport.
- Question 5 - check box for Legal Alien Allowed to Work
- Question 16 - The card will be mailed to this address
Collect Additional Documents
Applications must be done in person. Take the following documents with you to the Social Security Office:- Application Form SS-5
- Passport
- Employment offer letter
- DS-2019 form (fully signed)
- I-94 (print Most Recent I-94 online)