Application for a Social Security Card

The “Application For A Social Security Card” (Form SS-5-FS) is the form to be completed if you have never had a number before or need a duplicate or corrected card. Use this form if you are living outside the United States or are applying for a number or card on behalf of a child who is living outside the United States. If you (or the child on whose behalf you are applying) is living outside the United States, we can assign a number or issue a duplicate or corrected card if you (or the child) are: (1) a United States citizen or (2) a noncitizen admitted to the United States for permanent residence or with other INS authority to work. Otherwise, we can assign a number or issue a duplicate or corrected card only if a Social Security number is required by law as a condition of receiving a federally-funded benefit to which you (or the child) has established entitlement.

How to Obtain the Form

After you download the Adobe Acrobat Reader, come back to this page and download the PDF version of the SS-5-fs:

SS-5fs in

SSA forms must be printed on 8 1/2" x 11" white paper. You must print the form with blue or black ink to be acceptable to SSA.

NOTE: if you live abroad, and cannot obtain 8.5 x 11 paper, the use of A4 size paper (8.25 x 11.7) is the only acceptable alternative.

How to Complete the Form

Complete the SS-5-FS following the instructions on the form. Also see the form for the evidence you will need.

Finally, you should take or mail the completed form with the required original documents or copies certified by the custodian of the record to the nearest U.S. Social Security office, U.S. Embassy or consulate, or if you live in the Philippines, to the Veterans Affairs Regional Office in Manila. If you are a U.S. military dependent or a U.S. citizen working on a U.S. military post, you may also go to the Post Adjutant or Personnel Office. These offices can copy and certify your records so that you do not have to send original documents through the mail. Do NOT mail original documents to the Social Security Administration in Baltimore, Maryland.

Your Social Security card will be mailed to you from the United States.