I heard a rumor that people who were issued a SSN can live in the US legally now. Is it true? How?

Question

Can people with a social security card get legal? if so to what status?

Answer 1

It's the other way around. You cannot get an SSN if you are not legal.

Answer 2

I have one.  I think most Americans do. Why wouldn't they be able to live here legally?

Answer 3

A legal resident or a person on a Visa can be issued a SSN to work in the United States.  With a SSN not only can they work but they can pay taxes.

Answer 4

Many have ssn's who overstayed a once valid visa.  And, no, unless you file for a change of status, and there is the risk (a pretty good risk) you would be deported instead of getting status changed.  If you want to try that route, speak to an immigration attorney.

Answer 5

if it's a legal ssn...I'm pretty sure you need to be a citizen to get one.

Answer 6

This rumor is untrue. Merely having a valid Social Security card does not guarantee any kind of immigration status. Many people come to the U.S. on a temporary basis as athletes or entertainers. They have Social Security cards because they had valid visas and were paid to work temporarily in the U.S.

They are not entitled to live in the U.S. just because they were issued a Social Security card once in their lives.

Answer 7

In the United States, a Social Security number (SSN) is a 9-digit number issued to citizens, permanent residents, and temporary (working) residents under section 205(c)(2) of the Social Security Act, codified as 42 U.S.C. § 405(c)(2).

If you got it from some guy named Juan down at 5th and 3rd however then you should probably walk down to the local INS office, show them your card, and ask them to take care of you.