Knowledge Center Tax Advice for Specific Needs

How Can I Get a Social Security Card While Living Abroad?

You can apply for a Social Security card while living overseas. Apply through a Federal Benefits Unit (FBU) at a designated U.S. Embassy, or at any U.S. Embassy or Consulate if no FBU is available in your country. The process typically takes 3-4 weeks through an FBU and requires original documents, as well as Form SS-5-FS.

This guide applies to you if you are:

A U.S. citizen needing a first-time or replacement card from abroad
A Green Card holder who never received an SSN
An “Accidental American” (born abroad to U.S. citizen parents)
A parent applying for a child born overseas

Need a Social Security Number for Filing or Benefits?

You’ll confirm how your SSN status affects your tax return, credits, and future retirement benefits.

Here is exactly how to apply, what documents you need, and how to avoid common delays.

Related Article: Do Expats Get Social Security?

U.S. citizens and permanent residents living abroad can apply for Social Security cards, including:

U.S. citizens needing first-time or replacement cards
Green Card holders who never received an SSN
“Accidental Americans” (U.S. citizens born abroad who may not have known about their citizenship)
Children of U.S. citizens born overseas
Anyone with a lost or damaged card

Can’t get an SSN? If you don’t have work authorization, you may qualify for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) for tax purposes instead. Learn how to get an ITIN.

What Are the Two Ways to Apply From Abroad?

1. Federal Benefits Unit (FBU): Fastest and Easiest

Federal Benefits Units are specialized offices within certain U.S. Embassies that handle Social Security applications directly. This is your best option because:

Faster processing (3-4 weeks typical)
Staff are specifically trained in Social Security procedures
Direct transmission to the Social Security Administration (SSA)
Lower chance of document errors or delays

2. Regular Embassy or Consulate

If there is no FBU in your country, you can apply at any U.S. Embassy or Consulate. However:

Processing takes longer (several weeks to months)
Additional administrative steps are required
Higher chance of delays

Find your nearest FBU: Check the official SSA list at www.ssa.gov/foreign/foreign.htm.

What Documents Do I Need?

All documents must be originals or agency-certified copies. Photocopies and notarized copies are rejected.

For U.S. Citizens

Unexpired U.S. passport
U.S. birth certificate or Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA)
Completed Form SS-5-FS (Application for Social Security Card)

For Permanent Residents (Green Card Holders)

Unexpired foreign passport
Permanent Resident Card (Green Card/I-551)
Birth certificate from the country of birth (with certified English translation if needed)
Completed Form SS-5-FS

For U.S. Citizens Born Abroad (“Accidental Americans”)

U.S. passport or CRBA
Birth certificate (CRBA preferred, or local birth certificate with certified English translation)
Parents’ proof of U.S. citizenship (if applicant is under 12)
Completed Form SS-5-FS

For Children Born Abroad

Child’s foreign birth certificate and/or CRBA
Parents’ U.S. passports and proof of identity
Completed Form SS-5-FS

Pro Tip

Contact your FBU or Embassy before applying. They will provide a specific document checklist for your situation. Requirements can vary slightly depending on country and individual circumstances.

Step 1: Make an Appointment

Never walk in. All Social Security applications require appointments. Contact your FBU or Embassy by phone or email to schedule.

Step 2: Complete Form SS-5-FS

Download the Application for Social Security Card (Form SS-5-FS) from the SSA website. Fill it out completely and accurately. This form is free.

Step 3: Gather Your Documents

Collect all required original documents. Double-check expiration dates and make sure names match across all paperwork. If any documents are in a language other than English, bring a certified translation.

Step 4: Attend Your Appointment

Bring everything in person. Be prepared for an interview if you are 12 or older and applying for the first time.

Step 5: Wait for Processing

Your card will be mailed to the address you provide. Processing typically takes 3-4 weeks through an FBU.

Application Method	Typical Processing Time	Best For
FBU application	3-4 weeks	All applicants with FBU access
Regular Embassy	Several weeks to months	Areas without FBU
Immigrant visa process	About 3 weeks after U.S. arrival	New Green Card applicants
Mail (where available)	3-4 weeks plus mailing time	Children under 12 in select countries

Example: The U.S. Embassy in Spain processes applications within about one week. Cards are typically issued within 48 hours in the U.S., and mailing to Spain takes roughly three weeks.

What Causes Delays and How Can I Avoid Them?

Verify all document requirements with your FBU before applying. The most common causes of delay are easily preventable.

Document Issues

Name mismatches across documents (even minor spelling differences can cause problems)
Expired documents (passports, Green Cards, and IDs must all be current)
Photocopies instead of originals (only agency-certified copies are accepted)

Process Issues

Missing appointments (walk-ins are not accepted)
Incomplete applications (fill out every field on Form SS-5-FS)
Manual document verification (can add weeks or even months in some cases)

Pro Tip

Bring extra documents beyond what is required. If your primary proof of identity is questioned, having a backup can prevent a return visit.

What About Special Situations?

Green Card Holders Living Overseas

Having a Green Card but living overseas does not disqualify you from getting an SSN. The application process is the same, but keep a few things in mind:

Your Green Card status is not affected by applying for an SSN
Long absences (over 6 months) may raise questions about your permanent residence
Maintain U.S. ties through tax filing, property, and bank accounts

To protect your status:

File U.S. tax returns as a resident each year (never as a nonresident).
Keep a U.S. address, bank accounts, property, and other ties.
Limit trips outside the U.S. to under 6 months when possible.
Apply for a reentry permit before leaving the U.S. for long periods.
Be ready to prove to border officials that you intend to keep your permanent residence.

Even if you live abroad, Green Card holders must report worldwide income and remain compliant with U.S. tax law. Learn more about Green Card holders and foreign income taxes.

“Accidental Americans” and U.S. Citizens Born Abroad

Never lived in the U.S. but born to American parents? You can still get an SSN from abroad. The Embassy may request additional documentation since you have no U.S. ties, so bring comprehensive proof of citizenship.

Required documents:

U.S. passport or Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA)
Birth certificate (CRBA is preferred, or local birth certificate with English translation)
Completed Form SS-5-FS
Parents’ proof of U.S. citizenship and identity (if you are under 12)

Take Note

If you are an “Accidental American” who recently discovered U.S. citizenship, getting your SSN is often your first step toward tax compliance. The IRS offers Streamlined Filing Procedures to help you catch up without penalties. Learn more about Accidental American tax obligations.

First-Time Applicants Age 12+

In-person interviews are required. Be prepared to answer questions about your need for the card and your background.

Children Under 12

In some countries, parents can often apply by mail. Check with your local FBU for mail application eligibility.

Emergency Situations

While there is no official expedited process, FBUs can sometimes prioritize applications for urgent needs. Contact them directly to discuss your situation.

You do not need your physical card to start working. Employers can accept:

A letter from SSA confirming that you have applied for a number
Immigration documents proving work authorization

However, you will need your actual SSN for tax filing and benefit purposes.

What Are the Tax Implications of Getting an SSN as an Expat?

Getting your SSN is often the first step in managing your U.S. tax obligations. Here is what to keep in mind:

U.S. citizens and Green Card holders must file U.S. tax returns annually, no matter where they live.
Foreign income may be excludable up to $130,000 (2025 tax year) with the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE).
Claim the Foreign Tax Credit to reduce double taxation.
Report all foreign bank accounts (FBAR, FATCA).
Social Security benefits may be taxable depending on your country and income.
Dependents must have an SSN or ITIN to be claimed for tax credits.
Giving up your Green Card may have tax consequences. Get professional advice first.

Not sure which IRS forms you need? Explore the most important U.S. tax forms for expats.

Once your card arrives:

Memorize your number and store the card in a safe place (do not carry it with you)
Update your records with banks, employers, and financial institutions
File any overdue tax returns if you were waiting for your SSN
Consider tax planning for your international situation

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. You can apply for a replacement card through your nearest FBU or U.S. Embassy/Consulate. You will need to provide a document proving your identity, and if you were born outside the U.S., documents proving your citizenship or immigration status. All replacement card applicants can also apply by mail through their servicing FBU.

No. Online applications are only available for those with a U.S. address. Overseas applicants must apply in person at an FBU or Embassy (or by mail for some children under 12 and replacement cards).

Yes. Employers can accept an SSA receipt letter and valid immigration documents proving work authorization while your card is being processed.

You must notify SSA if you collect benefits abroad, but they do not track your movements otherwise. If you receive benefits, SSA will send you a questionnaire every 1-2 years to confirm your continued eligibility.

What if I am not eligible for an SSN?

You may apply for an ITIN through the IRS for tax purposes. ITINs do not grant work authorization or Social Security benefits.

This depends on totalization agreements between the U.S. and your country of residence. The U.S. has agreements with over 30 countries that prevent double Social Security taxation while allowing benefit coordination. These agreements can help you qualify for benefits by combining your work credits from both countries.

My foreign bank asked for my SSN because of FATCA. Do I have to provide it?

Yes. Under FATCA, foreign financial institutions are required to determine whether their customers are U.S. citizens. As a U.S. citizen or Green Card holder, you must provide your SSN (or ITIN) to your foreign bank. If you do not yet have one, applying through your local FBU is the recommended first step.

Need Help With Your Expat Taxes?

If you are an accidental American who just discovered your U.S. filing obligations, or a Green Card holder sorting out your tax requirements for the first time, you are not alone. Learn more about how Greenback helps accidental Americans stay compliant with confidence.

If you’re ready to be matched with a Greenback accountant, click the get started button below. For general questions on expat taxes or working with Greenback, contact our Customer Champions.

Your Social Security Status Affects More Than You Think

You’ll get expert guidance on how your SSN connects to U.S. tax filing, foreign reporting, state residency, and retirement benefits.

Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, or financial advice. Tax rules and SSA procedures are subject to change. For guidance specific to your situation, consult a qualified tax professional or contact your nearest Federal Benefits Unit. Greenback makes every effort to ensure the accuracy and timeliness of information presented, but is not responsible for errors or omissions, or for results obtained from the use of this information.

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