Getting a SSN from Calgary Consulate - possible?

[Sholezard]

Hi There,

I'm hoping someone can help me with my question. If I obtain a TN visa, can I then apply for, and obtain, a SSN from the Calgary US Consulate instead of having to go down to the states somewhere in order to get it? Anyone experienced this before?

Thanks!

[toronto5481]

We all wish it was that easy ! But no, you have to go to your local social security office in the US. Bring in the completed form and you will received your ssn in the mail in 4-8 weeks.

here is the form:
http://www.ssa.gov/online/ss-5.pdf

to locate your nearest social security office (enter your zip code):
https://secure.ssa.gov/apps6z/FOLO/fo001.jsp


It's a pretty straightforward process. Its just the wait that's somewhat annoying !

[agnelson]

Yes, you can submit the SS-5 to a consulate (in person).

The same caveats apply as for apalying at a US SSA office: you need to wait several days after getting TN before submitting the application, otherwise the main office will not have any record of your TN, and your SSN application will be delayed.

In any event, the consulate won't get you the SSN; they will merely submit your paperwork and the SSA will mail you the card where you tell them to on the Form.

That said, it kinda makes applying for SSN in Calgary rather pointless, since you will be down in the US working when it comes time to apply for the card, no?

I think the best practice is to get TN, move to US, then start working/apply for SSN simultaneously, get card a couple of weeks later.

Your way would likely add several days to the process, including a trip back to calgary.

-- Mon Oct 26, 2009 3:19 pm --

RETRACTION: Per SSA, submissions to consulates can only be accepted for US citizens, and those admitted for permenent residency.
http://ssa-custhelp.ssa.gov/cgi-bin/ssa ... =undefined

It's not obvious in the instructions for the form that is submitted to the consulate:
http://www.socialsecurity.gov/online/ss-5fs.pdf
(note it is slightly different than ss-5)

So, as TO5481 said, you'll hjave to go to a local office, which is better and more "straightforward" anywys.

[Steven]

Yeah, it's only for US citizens, the usual situation is someone who has a child here who needs an SSN. You have to go to the US to get the TN-1 first, hence the requirement to go to the SSA office.