1. Employment & Internships
  2. Getting a Social Security Number

Getting a Social Security Number

International students, scholars, and faculty who are employed must apply for a social security number within the first 90 days of employment. Please refer to the appropriate section below for instructions, which vary depending on the specific kind of employer you will be working for.

International Students with Approved Off-Campus Employment:

Take the following documents to the Social Security Administration* and submit your application:

International Students Working for Chartwells or the UNC Charlotte Bookstore:

  • Follow the I-9 instructions provided by either of the above-named employers.
  • If working for Chartwells specifically, complete the following ISSOconnect application: Chartwells Letter Signature Request Form. The ISSO will sign and release your  Chartwells offer letter within 5 business days of submission of the application to accompany your Social Security application.

Take the following documents to the Social Security Administration* and submit your application:

International Students with any Other On-Campus Employment

Take the following documents to the Social Security Administration* and submit your application:

When you receive your Social Security card in the mail (in 2 to 4 weeks), take it to the Student Employment Office located in the King Building (Building # 11 on the Campus Map) Room 222. Federal law requires that the employer must keep a copy of the original card.

*The SSA & Covid-19 Adaptations

Social Security Adminstation offices resumed in-person operations, including "walk-in services" on April 7, 2022.  Please be prepared to wear a mask, practice physical distancing, and perhaps wait outside due to the length of the queue. As of 8/24/2022, international students MUST use the paper application to apply for their SSN to avoid complications.