Can I apply for Social Security right away?

Generally speaking, this is not a request you can make immediately: the Social Security number is typically applied for after you enter the United States already holding permanent resident status through EB-5. It is that status that opens the door to working legally and accessing services tied to the number.

EB-5 can lead to permanent resident status once the entire process is approved. With that status recognized upon entry into the country, the Social Security application tends to be more straightforward. Issuance is handled by the Social Security Administration (SSA), which must verify your identity and immigration status before issuing the number.

In practice, this typically involves:

• Original identity documents, such as your passport.
• Proof of the lawfulness of your entry and your immigration status.
• A processing period for the SSA to verify the information.

Since each case has its own particularities and rules may change, be cautious of promises of quick or guaranteed results, and confirm the current procedure directly with the SSA and USCIS, ideally with the support of a specialist.

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.