Social Security for H1 to F1 visa transfers

[RG1317]

I was on F1 about 11 years ago when I got my Social Security card (back then, the laws were different), after which I went on H1 and obviously, continued to have the same Social Security. Now, I am back on F1 doing my Masters, and I still have the same Social Security number.

Now, I have to change my name on my Social Security because I got married and changed my name on my passport. I am a bit nervous to go to the Social Security office because they need to see my current visa status, and I am concerned that once they see I am on F1 now, they may say that I am not eligible for Social Security and take that away from me.

I have 11 years of credit history, employment history etc on this number and don't want to lose it. I am also currently employed in an internship and don't want to jeopardize that. Can anyone help??

Is there a possibility for this to happen, or will they grandfather my social security number even if I am on F1, since I've already had it for so long??

Thanks!!

[kabkaba]

They cannot take away a number once it is issued. All you need to do is to get your name corrected in your SS card.

[RG1317]

Thank you for your response! I am just concerned however that the new Social Security card that they issue will say I am not legally authorized to work in the US, since I am on F1 status. I have a paid internship, so I definitely need to have a regular Social Security number.

[sumsriva]

On F1, you are definitely eligible to work on CPT.
All you need is to contact your school and employer to issue a I-120. The school can even help you with all the required documents to produce.

Since, you already have a SSN, it should just be a name correction and as mentioned in the other reply, the SSN once issued in your name cannot be revoked or anything.


HTH