Can Pakistani students in the U.S. get a Social Security Number (SSN)?

Pakistani students planning to study in the United States often ask, “How do I get a Social Security number as a Pakistani student in the U.S.?”

The answer is that you can apply for a Social Security Number (SSN) as an F-1 or M-1 visa student. While the process may seem complex, it’s quite straightforward if you have the required documents ready and properly attested by the HEC (Higher Education Commission) of Pakistan.

To apply, you need to have a job offer, but even part-time, on-campus work qualifies you! Read our blog How to find a job in the U.S. as an international student for job search tips. Once you secure a job, visit your nearest Social Security Administration office in person with your documents to apply for an SSN card.

1. Pakistani student population in the U.S.Over 10,988 Pakistani students were enrolled in U.S. universities for the 2023-2024 academic year. Pakistan ranks among the top 20 countries sending students to the U.S.Source: Open Doors Report
2. Employment outcomes for master’s degree graduates in the U.S.Nearly 90% of master’s degree graduates from the class of 2023 were employed or continuing their education within six months of graduation, reflecting strong career prospects for advanced degree holders. While this marks a 0.9% decrease from the class of 2022, it remains higher than employment outcomes recorded during the pandemic, highlighting the resilience of the job market for master’s graduates.Source: NACE – Class of 2023: Nearly 85% of Bachelor’s Grads Employed or Continuing Education
3. Impact of optional practical training (OPT) on career outcomes:The optional practical training (OPT) program allows international students in the United States to gain practical work experience in their field of study for up to 12 months, with an additional 24-month extension for STEM graduates. Source: Niskanen Center – Optional Practical Training (OPT) and International Students After Graduation

1. Prove your identity and Pakistani citizenship

A valid passport with an appropriate U.S. visa is essential when applying for an SSN. Additional documents may include:

• I-551 Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
• I-766 Employment Authorization Document (EAD/work permit)
• I-94 Arrival/Departure Record
• Documents attested by Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA)
• HEC-attested educational credentials

2. Prove your immigration status

If you’re a Pakistani F-1 or M-1 student, you must provide:

• Your I-20 form with a valid travel signature
• Valid Pakistani passport with F-1/M-1 visa
• Most recent I-94 record

If you’re a J-1 or J-2 exchange visitor, you need:

• Your DS-2019 form
• Valid Pakistani passport with J-1/J-2 visa
• Most recent I-94 record

Additional documents that may be required:

• I-551 Lawful Permanent Resident Card or Machine Readable Immigrant Visa
• I-766 Employment Authorization Document
• Complete set of HEC-attested academic documents

3. Prove your work eligibility

For Pakistani international workers:

• Valid foreign passport with appropriate visa
• I-94 Arrival/Departure Record
• I-766 Employment Authorization Document (EAD/work permit)
• Letter from employer on official letterhead

For Pakistani F-1 students with on-campus employment:

• Valid I-20 Certificate of Eligibility with current program dates
• Employment verification letter including:

• Job title and description
• Employment start date
• Number of hours per week
• Supervisor’s name and contact information
• Employer’s tax ID number

For Pakistani F-1 students on curricular practical training (CPT):

• I-20 with CPT authorization
• Approval from Designated School Official (DSO)
• Offer letter from employer
• All documents should comply with both U.S. and Pakistani regulatory requirements

For Pakistani J-1 students or interns:

• Sponsor letter on official letterhead
• Original signature authorizing employment
• DS-2019 form with valid dates

Summary of required documents for Pakistani students

Are you a Pakistani student interested in studying abroad?

Learn more about MPOWER Financing for visa, career and financial support for international students. MPOWER makes it easy to qualify for a private student loan without a cosigner or collateral, which is particularly beneficial for Pakistani students navigating the State Bank of Pakistan’s foreign exchange regulations. Check out our network of universities in the U.S. and Canada to see which schools are eligible for MPOWER loans.