How long does an SSN last?

The Social Security Number (SSN) has no expiration date. Once issued, the number is permanent and stays linked to the same person for life, with no need for renewal. This applies even to those who obtained it while in the United States on an H-1B visa.

The point that often causes confusion is a different one: many SSNs issued to non-immigrants carry a notation indicating that the number is valid for work only with DHS authorization. In other words, the number itself does not expire, but the right to work remains tied to your immigration status.

In practice, this means that:

• The SSN stays the same throughout your life, even if your visa category changes.
• Your ability to use it for employment purposes depends on a valid work authorization.
• Maintaining valid status is what preserves your ability to use the SSN to work legally.

Because work authorization conditions vary depending on your status, it is worth verifying your specific situation with USCIS or an immigration specialist whenever your visa changes.

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.