Important: Need an in-person visit? Start online and self-schedule at ssa.gov/ICON.
April 16, 2026 Update: 3 replacements per year / 10 lifetime limit still applies. Citizens 18+ with no record changes can replace online instantly. Non-citizens & first-time applicants need original DHS/USCIS documents. Now available in 11 languages!
Social Security Card Replacement OR First-Time SSN Application in 2026 – 11 Languages
Lost, stolen, or damaged card? Brand new SSN for immigrants? Both are free. Complete guide for all visas. Translate instantly with the top bar.
✓ First-Time SSN Application (New Immigrants & Visa Holders)
Most new arrivals must apply in person after 10 days in the U.S. Free • 7-14 business days by mail.
Wait 10 Days After Entry
Allow DHS/SEVIS records to update.
Gather Original Documents
Passport + I-94 + I-797 (or I-20/DS-2019/EAD) + job/school letter.
Start Online & Schedule Appointment
ssa.gov → system directs you to ICON appointment.
Attend Appointment
Bring ALL originals. SSA issues SSN immediately if needed for work/school.
Receive Card
Mailed to your U.S. address in 7-14 business days.
Pro Tips: Always use originals. Check I-94 first at i94.cbp.dhs.gov. Bring job offer or school letter for faster processing.
Replacement Process for Existing SSN Holders
Limits: 3 per year • 10 lifetime (exceptions for name/work changes). Processing: ~10 business days.
Check Eligibility
U.S. citizens 18+ with no changes → online
Apply
my Social Security or Form SS-5 + documents.
Receive
Card mailed. Call 1-800-772-1213 if delayed past 3 weeks.
Official step-by-step video (updated April 2026)
Let’s Get Started Right Now
Download Form SS-5 (PDF) Replace Card Online Schedule Appointment Printable ChecklistReplacement Limits (2026)
per year
lifetime (exceptions apply)
All services are free — beware of scam sites charging fees.
5 Real-World Examples: Documents Required (per SSA POMS)
POMS (Program Operations Manual System) is the official SSA policy manual that governs exactly which documents are acceptable for SSN issuance. The references below (RM 00203 series) detail the evidence rules for identity, citizenship/immigration status, and work authorization. Always bring original unexpired documents only — photocopies are never accepted. Latest official POMS: secure.ssa.gov/poms.nsf
1. U.S. Citizen – Lost or Stolen SSN Card
POMS RM 00203.020 & RM 00203.030 – These sections cover evidence of U.S. citizenship and identity for replacement cards.
- Valid U.S. driver’s license, state ID, or passport (primary photo ID)
- Birth certificate or U.S. passport (if no photo ID available)
Why these? POMS requires proof of identity + citizenship. One document can satisfy both if it contains photo + U.S. birth/citizenship info.
2. H-1B Specialty Occupation Visa – First-Time SSN
POMS RM 00203.100 – Evidence of non-citizen immigration status and work authorization for H visas.
- Valid passport with H-1B visa stamp
- I-94 arrival record (electronic or paper)
- Form I-797 approval notice
- Labor Condition Application (LCA)
Why these? RM 00203.100 specifically lists I-797 + LCA as required for H-1B work-authorized SSN issuance.
3. F-1 Student (OPT/CPT)
POMS RM 00203.100 – Student visa evidence rules requiring school verification of SSN need.
- Valid passport
- Form I-20 with DSO SSN endorsement
- I-94 record
- EAD card (for OPT)
- School letter confirming SSN is required for employment or banking
Why these? POMS mandates the I-20 endorsement + school letter to confirm the SSN is needed for authorized F-1 activity.
4. Green Card / Permanent Resident
POMS RM 00203.100 – Lawful permanent resident (LPR) evidence requirements.
- Green Card (Form I-551)
- Valid passport
Why these? RM 00203.100 accepts the I-551 Green Card as primary proof of immigration status and work authorization.
5. EAD / Employment Authorization Holder
POMS RM 00203.100 – Employment Authorization Document rules for non-immigrant categories.
- Valid passport
- Form I-766 EAD card
- I-797 (if the EAD was based on a pending application)
Why these? POMS RM 00203.100 treats the I-766 EAD as definitive proof of work authorization for SSN issuance.
☐ Detailed Visa-Specific SSN Guides (2026 – 10 Visas)
H-1B Specialty Occupation Visa
After I-797 Approval
Wait for I-94 to update (1-3 days after entry).
Required Documents
Passport + H-1B visa stamp + I-94 + I-797 + LCA.
Schedule ICON Appointment
ssa.gov routes you to in-person.
At SSA
SSN issued immediately for work authorization.
POMS: RM 00203.100 • Bring original LCA.
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