For American citizens and permanent residents, the social security number is similar to a national identification system. It is required to complete many transactions including opening a bank account, applying for a driver’s license and obtaining a job. In order to obtain a social security number the individual needs to apply at the local Social Security Administration Office.

For international students, the process to obtain a social security number is very different. The international student on an F-1 student visa may apply for a social security number if he/she is eligible to participate in “on campus” employment, in “curricular practical training” and/or have been approved for “optional practical training”. In order to obtain a social security number, the student must present a letter from an international student counselor stating the student is eligible to obtain a social security number. and present a valid passport, the visa, the I-20 and a birth certificate * at the Social Security Office.

The local Office of the Social Security Administration is located at:

Social Security Administration
1735 Coffee Port Rd.
Brownsville, Texas 78520
Telephone (956) 574-7417 

* Students with prospective on campus employment must present an original letter from the prospective employer to the International Students Services Office as well as to the Social Security Administration Office.