1
Auburn, WA 98092
Fax: 253.333.4940
international@greenriver.edu
Employment in the U.S.
In order to obtain employment in the U.S. you must apply for a Social Security number (SSN). A Social Security number
(SSN) is issued to track earnings over a worker's lifetime.
In order to issue a Social Security number the Social Security Administration requires evidence that you are eligible to work in
the U.S., that you are a full-time student and that you have received a formal offer of on-campus employment. The Social
Security Administration must also verify your immigration documents and status with Immigration before issuing the Social
Security number.
You will need to apply for a Social Security number (SSN) in person at a local Social Security office and have the following
documents with you in order to apply:
• Completed International Student Social Security Verification form (see page 2)
• Completed Social Security application form. Print from https://www.ssa.gov/forms/ss-5.pdf
• I-20
• Passport / Visa
• I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record). Print your I-94 at https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov (click on “GET MOST RECENT I-94”)
Please Note:
• New students may not apply for an SSN earlier than 10 business days after arriving in the U.S.
• Students may not apply for a Social Security card if the beginning date of their on-campus or CPT position is more
than 30 days from the application date; or if the start date on your work permit (EAD card) is a future date
• Students cannot start working prior to receiving a social security number (SSN) unless they provide the receipt from
the social security Administration that states they’ve applied for their SSN number.
• For questions about applying for a social security number contact Toya Turner, International Student Employment
Specialist at tturner@greenriver.edu
or (253) 833-9111 x2267
Things to know / Helpful hints when going to the Social Security Office:
• The closest Social Security office is located at 321 Ramsay Way, at Kent Station (suite 401) next to the Green River
College Kent Campus. Bus route #164 travels between Green River College and Kent Station.
• Directions and list of requirements are available in the International Programs office (IVD reception area) or you can
get a map and directions to Kent Campus.
• Expect long wait times (up to 3 hours)
• Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday are the best days to go
• Monday, Tuesday or the day after a holiday are the worst days to go
321 Ramsay Way, Suite 401
Kent, WA 98032