International (F-1) students are only eligible to apply for a social security number if they are offered on campus employment. In the United States, a Social Security Number (SSN) is a 9-digit number issued to citizens, permanent residents and temporary (working) non-residents by the Social Security Administration (SSA). Its primary purpose is to track individuals for taxation purposes. It is not an identification document.
SSN Application Process
You must first obtain an on campus job offer and bring the job offer letter to Rachel Wood in the Welcome Center. An immigration verification letter will be prepared for you to include with your additional SSN application documents.
Take the following documents to the Social Security Office when applying:
1. Application for SSN (available at office or online)
2. Valid Passport
3. Current I-94 arrival/departure record
4. Valid I-20
5. Job offer letter
6. Immigration Verification Letter (from the International office)
Visiting the SSN Office
1370 E. Lassen Ave. Ste. 150
Chico, CA 95973
(866) 964-7585
Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 9am - 4pm & Wednesday 9am - 12pm
Content editor:
Rachel Wood
530-895-2991
