As an immigration expert with years of experience in dealing with various visa categories and their associated regulations, I can provide you with a comprehensive answer to your question regarding whether H4 visa holders can obtain a Social Security Number (SSN).

Social Security Numbers are issued by the Social Security Administration (SSA) in the United States and are used for a variety of purposes, including employment, taxation, and accessing certain government benefits. The issuance of an SSN is not automatic upon arrival in the United States, and it is not granted to every visa holder.

For H4 visa holders, the situation is a bit more nuanced. The H4 visa is a nonimmigrant visa that allows certain family members of H1B visa holders to live in the United States. Historically, H4 visa holders were not eligible to work in the U.S., and therefore, they were not typically issued an SSN. However, this changed with the introduction of certain regulations that allowed certain H4 visa holders to apply for Employment Authorization Documents (EADs).

The eligibility for an SSN is tied to an individual's ability to work legally in the United States. If an H4 visa holder has an EAD, they are considered to have authorization to work, and this can make them eligible for an SSN. It is important to note, however, that the process of obtaining an SSN is not as simple as just having an EAD. The individual must also meet other criteria set forth by the SSA.

One of the key criteria is that the individual must have a valid reason for needing an SSN. This is often tied to employment, but can also include other reasons such as applying for government benefits or services. The SSA has specific forms and documentation that must be provided to apply for an SSN, and these requirements can be quite stringent.

Regarding the reference to the form I-8, this form is used by employers to verify the employment eligibility of individuals who are not U.S. citizens or nationals. It is not typically used by individuals to apply for an SSN. Instead, the form that H4 visa holders with work authorization would need to complete is the Form SS-5, which is the application for a Social Security card.

When applying for an SSN, H4 visa holders with work authorization must provide proof of their identity, their work authorization, and their eligibility to work in the U.S. This can include documents such as their passport, H4 visa, EAD, and any other relevant documents that demonstrate their legal status and work authorization.

It is also worth mentioning that the SSA has specific rules about when and how often an individual can apply for an SSN. For example, an individual cannot apply for an SSN if they have previously been issued one, and there are limits on how many times an individual can apply for a replacement card.

In conclusion, while H4 visa holders may be eligible for an SSN if they have work authorization, the process is not automatic and requires meeting several criteria set by the SSA. It is always advisable for individuals in this situation to consult with an immigration attorney or expert to ensure they understand the process and requirements fully.

read more >>

Please note that social security numbers are no longer issued to H4 or visitor visa holders who are not legal to work. A SSN will not be issued simply for banking or other purposes. The Social Security office uses a form letter to explain to those applying for a card that a bank must file a form I-8 instead.read more >>