How to Get a Social Security Card While Living Abroad

You can get a Social Security card while overseas by applying through a Federal Benefits Unit (FBU) at designated US embassies or consulates. The process takes 3-4 weeks and requires original documents plus Form SS-5-FS.

Who this guide is for:

U.S. citizens, Green Card holders, Americans born abroad, and expats needing a first-time or replacement SSN for themselves or their children.

Related Article: Do Expats Get Social Security?

Who Can Apply for a Social Security Card Overseas?

US citizens and permanent residents living abroad can apply for Social Security cards, including:

• US citizens needing first-time or replacement cards
• Green Card holders who never received an SSN
• “Accidental Americans” (US citizens born abroad)
• Children of US 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.

Two Ways to Apply: FBU vs. Embassy/Consulate

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

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

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

2. Regular Embassy or Consulate

If no FBU exists in your country, you can apply at any US 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 https://www.ssa.gov/foreign/foreign.htm

What Documents Do You 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 SS-5-FS (Application for Social Security Card)
  

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 SS-5-FS
  

For Children Born Abroad

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

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a Social Security Card Overseas

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.

Step 3: Gather Documents

Collect all required original documents. Double-check expiration dates and ensure names match across all paperwork.

Step 4: Attend Your Appointment

Bring everything in person. Be prepared for an interview if you’re 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.

Processing Times and What to Expect

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	3 weeks after US arrival	New Green Card applicants
Mail (where available)	3-4 weeks plus mailing time	Children under 12 in select countries

Example: The US Embassy in Spain processes applications within one week, cards are issued within 48 hours in the US, and mailing to Spain takes about three weeks.

Common Delays and How to Avoid Them

Verify all document requirements with your FBU before applying. Ensure consistent spelling of names across all paperwork.

Document Issues

• Name mismatches across documents
• Expired documents
• Photocopies instead of originals

Process issues:

• Missing appointments
• Incomplete applications
• Manual document verification (can add months)

Special Situations

Green Card Holders Living Overseas

Having a Green Card but living overseas doesn’t disqualify you from getting an SSN. The application process is the same, but keep in mind:

• Your Green Card status is safe when applying for an SSN
• Long absences (over 6 months) may raise questions about your permanent residence
• Maintain US 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 US Citizens Born Abroad

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

Required documents:

• US passport or Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA)
• Birth certificate (CRBA is preferred, or local birth certificate with English translation)
• Completed SS-5-FS form
• Parents’ proof of US citizenship and identity (if you’re under 12)

Note for “Accidental Americans”: The embassy may request additional documentation if you’ve never had US ties. Bring comprehensive proof of citizenship and identity.

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

Parents can often apply by mail in some countries. Check with your local FBU for mail application eligibility.

Emergency Situations

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

Working While You Wait

You don’t need your physical card to start working. Employers can accept:

• A letter from SSA confirming you’ve applied for a number
• Immigration documents proving work authorization

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

Tax Considerations for Expats

Getting your SSN is often the first step in managing your U.S. tax obligations. 

• 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 $126,500 (2024 tax year limit) 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 advice first!

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

Your Next Steps

Once you receive your Social Security card:

1. Memorize your number and store the card safely
2. Update your records with banks and employers
3. File any overdue tax returns if you were waiting for your SSN
4. Consider tax planning for your international situation

Getting Additional Help

If you’re dealing with complex circumstances:

• Contact your FBU for application-specific guidance
• Visit the SSA website for current forms and requirements
• Consider professional help for immigration or tax complications

Proper preparation makes the Social Security card application process manageable. Focus on gathering the right documents, scheduling early, and using FBUs when available.

Related Articles: 

• US Tax Forms for Expats: What You Need to File
• How to File US Expat Taxes: Your Complete 2025 Filing Guide
• What Are Expat Tax Services?

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for a replacement Social Security card from overseas?

Yes, most US citizens can receive Social Security benefits while living abroad. Your location doesn’t affect your eligibility for benefits you’ve earned.

Can I get my Social Security card online for free from overseas?

No, online applications are only for those with a U.S. address. Overseas applicants must apply in person (or by mail for some children).

Can I work while waiting for my Social Security card?

Yes, with an SSA receipt and valid immigration documents.

Does Social Security know if I live overseas?

You must notify SSA if you collect benefits abroad, but they don’t track your movements otherwise.

What if I’m 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.

Can I collect Social Security from two countries?

This depends on totalization agreements between the US and your country of residence. Many countries have agreements preventing double taxation while allowing benefit coordination. 

Worried about double Social Security taxation? Find out how totalization agreements could impact your tax obligations and benefits.

Need Help? 

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.