International Students

Applying for a Social Security Number

If you have been offered a job on campus, you may apply for a Social Security Number. You can only begin working once your application has been successful and receive a receipt.

Steps to applying for a Social Security Number
  1. Complete the Social Security Verification Letter
  2. Make an appointment by calling 1-800-772-1213
  3. Visit the Social Security office for your appointment to apply for your Social Security Number. You must bring the following paper documents with you:
    • Current PCC I-20 (Must be printed on paper with your signature in pen.)
    • Valid passport
    • Current I-94 paper record (Must be printed on paper. You can get the record at https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov)
    • Completed Social Security Verification Form
    • Completed Form SS-5 Application
How to complete the Social Security Verification Letter

The student, employer, and OISS all have to complete different parts of this form before a student is ready to apply for a Social Security Number. Please see who completes which sections of the form in the table below.

Student

The student takes responsibility for making sure each section of the Social Security Verification form [pdf] is filled out.Student section of SSN Verification form

  1. The student begins by completing the first section of the form.
  2. The student must take this form to the hiring manager to complete the next section.
  3. After the hiring manager has completed their section, the student must take this form to the OISS to complete the last section.
  4. Once the form is complete, the student must bring the Social Security Verification form, along with the other listed required identification documents, to a Social Security Administration office and apply for a SSN.
Hiring Manager/Department

The hiring manager must complete the second section of the Social Security Verification form in order for a student to apply for a Social Security Number.

Employer section of SSN Verification form

OISS

Once the first two sections of the Social Security Verification form have been completed, the SEVIS Coordinator in the OISS will fill out the last section. This last signature must be in ink (not electronic).

OISS section of SSN Verification form

Local Social Security Offices
  • Near Cascade
    • 1538 SW Yamhill Street, Portland, OR 97205 (Corner of 16th and Yamhill)
  • Near Rock Creek
    • 11975 SW 2nd Street, Suite 100, Beaverton, OR 97005 (Corner of SW 2nd and Lombard)
  • Near Southeast
    • 17925 SE Division Street, Portland, OR 97236 (Near Division and SE 178th Ave)
  • Near Sylvania
    • 1538 SW Yamhill Street, Portland, OR 97205 (Corner of 16th and Yamhill)

To find the office closest to you or other locations, maps and office hours, visit the office locator on the Social Security website: https://secure.ssa.gov/ICON/main.jsp

Additional Social Security Information

The Social Security website has detailed information about obtaining a Social Security number. Please see the following documents: