Social Security Administration no longer requires waiting period for Employment-based Visa SSNs

Until now, the Social Security Administration (“SSA”) required nonimmigrants (e.g., H, L and E visa holders) to wait 10 days after entering the United States before applying for a Social Security Number. The waiting period was intended to provide Customs and Border Protection enough time to update their system with the nonimmigrant’s travel information. However, with the introduction of the new electronic I-94 system, these records are now updated within 24 to 48 hours. As such, the SSA has now removed the 10-day hold policy, imposing no time restriction, and allowing nonimmigrants (H, L and E visa holders) can apply for a SSN upon entering the United States.