Getting a SNN

[anoldjourney 1]

So I've done the I-130 process, had my interview, been approved etc. But I don't remember along the way if I had the option for getting an SSN?

Am I able to apply for a SSN before I get to the US? I'm going to be going to school there in a different state to where my family lives, and I don't have much time in between my arrival in the US & actually starting classes, so I need to be able to get a license, car, insurance, phone, bank account etc, ... oh, and a rental place... So I need my SSN for everything and don't really have time to wait a few weeks for it to arrive, then start getting everything else together. I'll need to get the car in the first week, same for license etc..

So is it possible for me to get a SSN sooner rather than later, before I enter the US? Or does the application arrange one for you once you enter the US? I'm a bit confused for this bit!

Thanks

[5Angels2Gether 1]

Is your I-130 based on an F2B family visa category? If so, your PD is not yet available - see http://www.travel.state.gov/visa/bulletin/bulletin_5953.html. Current visa availability for F2B is July 8, 2008 (for all other countries except China, India, Mexico and the Philippines).

The NOA is the approval from the USCIS. Your visa application (completion of DS-230) will commence once your PD becomes available (follow the visa bulletin every month; there is an option to subscribe so you get the email version of the updates).

Once your application is under the NVC processing, the option to file for a SSN will be on the DS-230 form.

I hope this helps!

[Penguin_ie 5,987]

**** Moving from Bringing Family to SSN forum *****

[MedRoni 161]

Once your application is under the NVC processing, the option to file for a SSN will be on the DS-230 form.

Correct, but either way if you choose this option or not your social security card will be issued after you arrive in the US. If you do not choose this option you will need to apply at a local office after you arrive.

Best of Luck!

[5Angels2Gether 1]

I just noted that option on the DS-230 because he noted "So I need my SSN for everything and don't really have time to wait a few weeks for it to arrive, then start getting everything else together. I'll need to get the car in the first week, same for license etc.. " Selecting this option will expedite his process since he does not have to go to the local SS Office and apply (I'm sure he'd still have to wait for a few weeks for his card to arrive, yes?)

It's been 26 years for me since my family immigrated to the U.S., so I'm sure processes have changed. Comments noted are based on my recent experience in helping my oldest sister complete her visa application to join us (her family) here.

[anoldjourney 1]

Is your I-130 based on an F2B family visa category? If so, your PD is not yet available - see http://www.travel.state.gov/visa/bulletin/bulletin_5953.html. Current visa availability for F2B is July 8, 2008 (for all other countries except China, India, Mexico and the Philippines).

The NOA is the approval from the USCIS. Your visa application (completion of DS-230) will commence once your PD becomes available (follow the visa bulletin every month; there is an option to subscribe so you get the email version of the updates).

Once your application is under the NVC processing, the option to file for a SSN will be on the DS-230 form.

I hope this helps!

No, not F2B, I'm an immediate relative, so I've got my visa in my passport now ready to enter the US. Ah, if the option for SSN was on the DS-230 form then hopefully we checked to do that, my parents were doing the forms so I'm not actually sure! I just know I'll be in a rush haha.

Correct, but either way if you choose this option or not your social security card will be issued after you arrive in the US. If you do not choose this option you will need to apply at a local office after you arrive.

Best of Luck!

How long should it take to arrive roughly? I'm unable to get a bank account or rentals etc without it, so hopefully it doesn't take longer than 3 weeks.. :S

I just noted that option on the DS-230 because he noted "So I need my SSN for everything and don't really have time to wait a few weeks for it to arrive, then start getting everything else together. I'll need to get the car in the first week, same for license etc.. " Selecting this option will expedite his process since he does not have to go to the local SS Office and apply (I'm sure he'd still have to wait for a few weeks for his card to arrive, yes?)

It's been 26 years for me since my family immigrated to the U.S., so I'm sure processes have changed. Comments noted are based on my recent experience in helping my oldest sister complete her visa application to join us (her family) here.

I'm a she, by the way

As long as it'll be sent to me and I don't have to go to an office, hopefully that will be quicker.