SSN for K3

[timcass_12 5]

Hello everyone -

I have a couple of questions with regards to getting SSN specifically for K3 filers -

- Is it ok to get SSN w/ the not-valid for work without EAD annotation even if we just filed our AOS? (I've read here that K3 filers should wait until they got their approved EADs but just wanna try our luck and see if we can get it ahead of time just so we can already apply for a joint bank account, do DMV, avail of the medical/dental insurance and all else that requires SSN).

- Do we really need to provide a letter stating the reasons on why we want to get SSN in advance?

- Is there any K3 filer in here that has experienced applying SSN before getting EAD approval? ?

- Side question: Can we already get a state ID?

Your inputs on this will be greatly appreciated. Thanks

timcass_12

Edited July 24, 2008 by timcass_12

[YuAndDan 153]

K-3 is NOT a work auth visa so SSA will not issue a SSN. You will have to wait until you get EAD or Green-Card before attempting to apply for SSN.

Most states require SSN before issuing a state ID like Driver's license.

This one of the big reasons to NOT do K-3, it may be a bit quicker than CR-1 but has the pain of not being able to get SSN which slows things after getting to the USA on the K-3.

CR-1 is not taking much longer than K-3, CR-1 costs less, CR-1 gets Green-card upon entry, CR-1 can work, get SSN and driver's license shortly after arrival. K-3 needs EAD before being able to WORK, get SSN, or Driver's license. EAD can take 90 days or more to get.

Also cost compare:

K-3:

I-130: $355

I-129F: NONE

Consulate: $131

AOS: $1010

($1496)

CR-1

I-130: $355

NVC I-864: $70

NVC Visa fee: $400 ($355+$45)

($825)

[Black Velvet 4]

Is it ok to get SSN w/ the not-valid for work without EAD annotation even if we just filed our AOS?

K-3 folks can not get a SSN until you have a work permit (EAD).

Do we really need to provide a letter stating the reasons on why we want to get SSN in advance?

To my knowledge, you only need a work permit- not a letter.

Is there any K3 filer in here that has experienced applying SSN before getting EAD approval? The SSA will not give you a SSN without the EAD.

Can we already get a state ID? You may be able to get a state ID depending on the state in which you reside. In Georgia, you don't have to physically bring the card. However, the number will be verified.

[YuAndDan 153]

Is it ok to get SSN w/ the not-valid for work without EAD annotation even if we just filed our AOS?

K-3 folks can not get a SSN until you have a work permit (EAD).

Do we really need to provide a letter stating the reasons on why we want to get SSN in advance?

To my knowledge, you only need a work permit- not a letter.

Is there any K3 filer in here that has experienced applying SSN before getting EAD approval? The SSA will not give you a SSN without the EAD.

Can we already get a state ID? You may be able to get a state ID depending on the state in which you reside. In Georgia, you don't have to physically bring the card. However, the number will be verified.

You only need EAD card or Green-Card, as well as other ID items listed by SSA. No letter stateing reasons why SSN is needed.

Having EAD or Green-card makes you work authorized, work authorization is a reason a person needs SSN, employers require SSN in order to report taxable income and withhold income tax.

[timcass_12 5]

Thanks so much for the replies and for clarifying. I'll let my husband know and then we can go check if we're able to get a state ID here in CA.