Previously, the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) Enumeration Beyond Entry (EBE) program allowed certain noncitizens and new citizens to request a Social Security Number (SSN) directly on their immigration forms, such as the I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization) and N-400 (Application for Naturalization), and to receive their Social Security Cards by mail without the need for a separate in-person application. As of March 19, 2025, the SSA has suspended this process for at least 90 days, pending policy review. After the review period, the agency has not committed to reinstating the EBE program.
Who Is Affected?
- F-1 students on Optional Practical Training (OPT)
- H-4 and J-2 spouses with new Employment Authorization Documents (EADs)
- Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and asylum applicants
- Newly naturalized citizens
- Anyone who previously relied on EBE for automatic SSN issuance
- Applicants who file for adjustment of status (AOS) using Form I-485 may still receive their SSN automatically, as well as those whose requests were submitted before March 18, 2025.
Impact
For Immigrants and New Citizens
- All affected applicants must now schedule and attend an in-person appointment at a local SSA office to apply for their SSN.
- If you recently received work authorization or naturalization approval and have not received your SSN, contact your local SSA office promptly.
- This additional step is anticipated to cause significant delays, particularly as SSA field offices are already understaffed and facing high demand. The suspension is expected to compel an estimated 60,000 to 75,000 more individuals each week to visit SSA offices nationwide, during a period when the agency has reduced its workforce by 12% and closed field offices across the country. This may postpone services for the approximately 70 million Americans dependent on Social Security benefits.
- Without an SSN, new arrivals may face delays in starting employment, opening bank accounts, or obtaining driver’s licenses.
For Employers and HR Professionals
- Employers must update onboarding protocols and be prepared for longer timelines when hiring foreign nationals or newly naturalized citizens.
- Inform affected employees about the need for an in-person SSA visit and provide guidance on the process.
- For E-Verify users, it is recommended that Form I-9 be annotated and the E-Verify case be deferred until the SSN is received.
- Importantly, employees can legally begin work while their SSN application is pending, but prompt application is advised.
- Prepare for delays and adjust payroll and benefits processes as needed.
The SSA’s suspension of automatic SSN issuance signifies a notable shift in U.S. immigration and employment procedures. While the policy is being reviewed, immigrants and employers must adjust to increased paperwork, longer wait times, and new administrative challenges. Staying informed and proactive is crucial to reducing disruptions during this period.
