Social Security Application in Downtown San Diego

Social Security Process for Expats in San Diego

Downtown Office Location:

Social Security Office
Address: 1333 Front Street, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone #: (855) 820-0097
Alternate location: www.ssa.gov

Documents Required:

1. Completed Application: Obtain the form online here.

   • Mother’s Name: Ensure you fill out her name at birth (original last name before marriage).

2. Letter from Employer: Stating urgent or dire need for a Social Security number (see page 2).

3. Passport and Visa: Verifies identity, age, work eligibility, and immigration status.

4. Birth Certificate: If available. If not, inform the SS agent it is ‘not available’.

5. I-94 Arrival/Departure Record: Print a copy from this website before arriving.

Timing & Receiving Your Card:

• Delivery Time: You will receive your Social Security card in the mail in approximately 2 weeks. Ensure you leave a delivery address with the Social Security office.
• Address Validity: Provide an address that will remain valid for at least 30 days.
• Secure Address: Use a secure address, such as your apartment. Make sure your name is taped on the inside door of the mailbox. If your name is not on the mailbox, the post office will not deliver the card, and you will need to revisit the Social Security office.

Important Items of Note:

• Appointments: The SSA office is fully open for services, but calling for an appointment is recommended.
• Eligibility: Appointments are only offered to working visa holders (not spouses).
• Waiting Period: The SSA requires a 10-day waiting period after arrival in the U.S. before applications can be submitted.
• Mail-in Applications: The Relocation Agency does not recommend mailing in your application with original documents. If this is suggested, please inform your Agent immediately.

Current Procedures:

1. Walk-In Service:

   • Social Security offices are open for walk-in service. Lines form about an hour before opening, so be prepared.
   • Some offices limit the number of applicants per day. Bring all original documents with you.
   • Be aware that wait times can exceed several hours.

2. By Appointment:

   • Call the Social Security office to set up an appointment as an International Applicant. A third-party agent cannot schedule this for you.
   • Discuss available days and times with your Agent so they can join you.
   • Schedule your appointment for a date that is at least 10 days after your arrival in the U.S. You cannot call before arriving in the U.S.
   • At the appointment, they will process your application, and the new Social Security Card will be mailed to the address provided.

Social Security Process Overview:

• Duration: Allow 2-4 hours for this process once inside the building.
• Timing: Schedule this for the morning as it could take longer.
• Preparation: It is recommended you are in the U.S. for 7-10 business days before starting the Social Security process. This allows time for your Visa information to verify in the U.S. system. Without verification, your Social Security application cannot be processed.
• Presence Required: The person acquiring their Social Security number must be present.

Social Security Process:

1. Arrival: To get in and out in a timely manner, try to arrive before they open and get in line outside.
2. Security Check: Once inside, you will go through a brief security check (do not bring sharp objects or weapons).
3. Kiosk: After the security check, go to the kiosk (ticket machine) to answer a few questions and generate a number. Take the number and wait in the designated area until your number is called. Security guards will guide you if needed.
4. Application Window: When your number is called, go to the specified window and inform them you are applying for a Social Security number. Provide your documents and answer a few questions, such as the first time you visited the United States and confirming the accuracy of your information.
5. Receipt: After processing, you will receive a receipt with a reference number and a phone number. If your card does not arrive in 4 weeks, call the number on the receipt and provide your reference number to track your card. This step is usually not necessary, but it is a precaution.