If you will be working or plan to receive any wages while in the U.S., you will be required to apply in person for a Social Security number (SSN) for payment purposes. If you are eligible and plan to apply for a Social Security Number, you must report to the Social Security Administration, which is located in Trenton, NJ, about 35 minutes southwest of Rider and is accessible via train or bus. Effective October 13, 2004, F-1 students must have a job offer/letter from an on-campus employer to apply for a Social Security Number. Before you apply, please be sure you have the following documents:
F-1 students
- I-94 card (small white card stapled in your passport)
- Passport
- Original I-20
- Employment letter from on-campus employer at Rider
- Authorization letter from the director of international programs (which may be combined with the employment letter)
J-1 students
- I-94 card (small white card stapled in your passport)
- Passport
- Original DS-2019
- Employment letter from prospective employer
- Authorization letter from the International Programs Office. (which may be combined with an employment letter)
J-2 dependents
As a J-2, you may apply for a SSN if you apply and are approved for work authorization. To apply, you must have the following:
- I-94 card (small white card stapled in your passport)
- Passport
- Original DS-2019
- Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
Visit Social Security Online to apply for a Social Security Card.
F-2 dependents are not eligible for a Social Security Card.