Information on SSN and employment with IR1 visa

[markwebb 5]

Hi all, 

 

My wife came into USA yesterday with her IR1 visa. Is she eligible to start work immediately or the employer would need the SSN number ? 

 

Also do we need to apply for SSN on SSA.gov or she will get it along with her Green Card ( based on DS260 information ) ? 

 

If we need to apply on ssa.gov then how do we identify her to SSA ? 

[geowrian 22,337]

She is allowed to work upon entry.

The employer cannot process payroll w/o the SSN. Whether an employer wants to allow them to work prior to having that setup is their decision. Local laws may apply on how that works.

 

I don't believe non-citizens can request an SSN online. It has to be done in-person. Contact your local SSA office for details on if/how they are doing so under current conditions.

If you completed the DS-260 and requested one, it should come automatically. But if you need one sooner rather than later, going through the SSA directly is suggested.

[Ryan H 3,813]

Moved from IR-1/CR-1 Process & Procedures to Working & Traveling During US Immigration forum.

[Just Paul 4,595]

If it was requested on the DS-260 it can take a few weeks to months to get the SSN.   Once the SSA offices open you can go check in person.   You can't apply online and finding someone knowledgeable on the phone is problematic.

[CC250 2]

You are authorize to work as soon as you enter the US with a IR1 Visa; however, most company may not want to hire if she does not have.a SSN. 

 

I have a CR1 Visa and was able to start work right away, but had to submit an I-9 through my employer since I transferred over to the US office. I entered the US on last month and I am still awaiting on my ssn (I requested it on my immigration visa application but I heard its not always reliable),. It almost been a month so I assume I would have to go to the SSA office when they open. The main issue is that they may not be able to pay you until you get your ssn or add you to the US payroll though ...