Social Security Number (SSN)

Apply for your Social Security Number

All types of employment require a Social Security Number before you begin working.

International students need to apply for and receive a job offer from an on-campus employer before they can apply for their Social Security Number.

The only other way to apply for an SSN is to fill a Form I-765 for OPT, COS, or Economic Hardship reasons. Contact: internationaladvisor@lanecc.edu for more information and eligibility requirements.

How to apply for SSN:

You will need the following documents to accompany your application for your Social Security Number:

  • Your current I-20 from Lane
  • Job offer letter completed and signed by the campus employer
  • Letter from IP office signed by DSO with employment information
  • Copy of your Passport
  • Copy of your F-1 VISA 
  • A printed copy of I-94
  • Note:  For paid Co-op class internships, you will need an offer letter from the internship, a letter from the SEVIS DSO in the IP office, and the CPT authorization already on your I-20 to apply for the SSN along with your passport, F-1 visa, and I-94.

Fill out the SSN application before your appointment. If you are under 18 years old, you must apply in person at the SSA office.

Learn more about the process, your eligibility to apply and the requirements.

You will need to call the local SS office and make an appointment to submit your letters and documents supporting your SSN application.

The local SSA office address is:

Eugene Social Security Office
2504 Oakmont Way
Eugene, OR 97401

Phone: 1-866-563-3450

Once you have your appointment, expect the application process to take about 2-4 weeks before you get your card in the mail. If it takes longer than a month then start calling the SS office to inquire about the SSN card.

Important Safety Warning Regarding your Social Security Card and Number

Please be careful with your SS number and SS card. You must show it to your employer and use it for taxes but protect it and do not carry it in your wallet or with easy access on your phone all the time. If your SS number is stolen, it can be used in fraudulent ways to open up loans and credit cards, etc, in your name. This can lead to many financial headaches and legal difficulties. Please keep your card in a safe place and be very careful in choosing to whom you give out your number to. Many businesses and online sources will ask for it. Leave it blank until they explain why they need it and you feel comfortable giving it out. Be very careful.