How do I apply for a Social Security Number?
If you have been advised by USCIS or your attorney that you are eligible, you may be able to apply for a Social Security Number. Individuals who might be eligible for a SSN are those who have obtained permission to work from the Department of Homeland Security (Immigration).
If you do not have a work permit, green card, or lawful status in the US, consult with an attorney to find out if you could qualify for a social security card. Learn how to schedule a consultation with one of our lawyers here.
Are you a student who has been granted DACA status? You are eligible to apply for a SSN, and can learn more about that process here.
To get an SSN, you must visit a social security office in person to complete and sign an application for a Social Security number.
In Portland, this office is located at:
1538 SW Yamhill Street
Portland, OR 97205
It is open 9am to 3pm Monday-Friday, and 9am-12pm on Wednesday
Not from Portland? Look up your nearest Social Security office here.
When you begin filling out the application, you will need to bring several documents with you to the office. The Social Security office requires:
1. Proof of Immigration Status (choose one):
- A work permit
- A legal permanent residence card (green card)
- Form I-94, proof of Asylum status
2. Work Eligibility (choose one):
- A work permit
- Form I-94, proof of Asylum status
3. Proof of Age (choose one):
- A birth certificate
- If you are unable to obtain your birth certificate within 10 days, the SS Department may consider your passport or immigration ID document instead.
4. Proof of Identity (choose one):
- A legal permanent residence card (green card)
- A passport
- A work permit
Note: you must bring original copies of all documents! Copied or notarized documents will not be accepted by the Social Security office.
If you do not have permission to work from DHS, but a Federal, State, or Local law requires you to get a specific benefit, you might be able to apply for a Social Security Number. Learn more here.
If you are a naturalized U.S. citizen, you might also be able to apply for a Social Security Number. For more information about naturalization, click here. If you do apply for a SSN as a naturalized citizen, the documents that you will need include:
1. Proof of Citizenship (choose one):
- A U.S. passport
- A U.S. Certificate of Naturalization or Certificate of Citizenship
- A U.S. Certificate of Report of Birth
- A Consular Report of Birth Abroad
2. Proof of Age (choose one):
- A birth certificate
- If you are unable to obtain your birth certificate within 10 days, the SS Department may consider your passport or immigration ID document.
3. Proof of Identity (choose one):
- A U.S. driver’s license
- A U.S. state-issued id card
- A U.S. Passport
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