Do Your Social Security Number and Green Card Change Together?

Many people wonder if their Social Security Number (SSN) changes when they obtain a Green Card. This article will clarify the relationship between an SSN and Green Card, highlighting the differences between the United States and the United Kingdom, and offering practical advice for those navigating the complexities of immigration status changes.

Understanding Social Security Numbers and Green Cards

A Social Security Number (SSN) is a unique identifier required for various financial and governmental purposes in the United States. Individuals who have been issued an SSN keep the same number even after obtaining a Green Card. If you have not had an SSN before getting your Green Card, you will need to apply for one after your status changes.

For immigration purposes, a Green Card is a Federal Government document that provides lawful permanent residency status. However, it's crucial to note that the Green Card itself does not change the SSN unless you update your immigration status to permanent residency after obtaining an SSN. At that point, you must notify the Social Security Administration (SSA) of your new status.

Comparing Social Security Number Policies in the United States and the United Kingdom

In the United States, a Social Security Number is mandatory for citizens and certain non-citizens who are authorized to work. A Green Card status does not change the SSN. However, in the United Kingdom, non-citizens may apply for a National Insurance Number (NINo), which serves a similar function, enabling them to pay taxes and receive benefits.

In the UK, immigrants who have the right to work can apply to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) for a NINo. Employers use this number to correctly deduct taxes and pay the tax office. If the individual needs to claim benefits at a later date, they apply to the DWP using their NINo.

It's important to note that the NINo does not change once it is allocated. Nearly all NINos are reused a few years after the holder's death. More information can be found on the official UK government website.

Personal Experiences and Insights

A reader shared their personal experience, stating, 'I obtained my SSN when I was very young and attending high school here with an F-1 visa. After graduating college, I went back to my home country for military service and then returned to the US for my Master’s degree, using the same SSN. Later, I left for 10 years, returning with a B1/B2 visa for business trips, yet my SSN remained unchanged.'

This experience highlights the long-term stability of an SSN when immigration status changes occur, emphasizing that your SSN typically remains the same unless you update your immigration status to permanent residency.

Conclusion

In summary, your Social Security Number and Green Card are separate entities. An SSN does not change when you obtain a Green Card. However, if your immigration status changes to permanent residency after obtaining an SSN, you should notify the Social Security Administration. In the UK, immigrants may obtain a NINo, which does not change once it is allocated.

For detailed guidance on immigration and Social Security matters, visit the official Social Security Administration and UK government websites.