Social Security Card

When you receive your Social Security card, you will notice it says “Valid for Work Only with DHS Authorization.” Don’t worry—this is normal! This specific type of card is issued to all au pairs to show that you are legally allowed to work and participate in your program according to U.S. government regulations.

Au pairs can apply for this card in person 3 days after arrival in the USA.

💻Step 1: Complete online social security application

  • Social Security Online Application
  • Check Your Visa: Look at the way your name is printed on your visa and copy it exactly onto your application. Sometimes the government lists multiple names in a specific order, so double-check before you submit.
  • Choose the Right Category: If the form asks about your citizenship or status, be sure to select “Legal Alien Allowed To Work.”

📞 Step 2: Book Your Appointment! After you finish the online part of your application, you’ll need to visit the office in person.

  • Find your local office: Check the Social Security Office Locator for the Vegas office closest to your home.
  • Make the call: Call the number listed to set up your appointment.

💡Pro-Tip for Host Parents: If your host parents are helping you book the call, make sure they have your confirmation number handy! They can’t make the appointment without it.

📄Step 3: Gather your documents.

  • Print your I-94 Card  (You will be prompted to scroll down and click “I Acknowledge & Agree”) You DO NOT pay any fee to print your I-94.
  • Print your Participation Letter (On your au pair portal)
  • Passport/visa
  • DS-2019
  • Country driver’s license
  • International driver’s permit or certified translation

📅Step 4: Go to your in-person appointment

  • Bring all documents listed in step 3 and go to your appointment.

📬Step 5: Receive card by mail. (Typical wait is 7-14 days but may take longer)

  • Once your card arrives in the mail, it is very important to handle it correctly. Follow these steps to stay organized and secure:
    • Save the Envelope! Do not throw away the mailer or the envelope the card came in. In Nevada, this is vital proof of residency that you will need to get your NV Driver’s License at the DMV.
    • Keep it at Home: Store your card in a safe, secure place at home. You rarely need to carry the physical card with you; only take it out when you know you need it for a specific appointment.
    • Protect Your Privacy: Your Social Security number is private. Only share it for official purposes, such as with your host family, your bank, the DMV, or your tax preparer.
    • ⚠️ Scam Alert: Stay Vigilant! Be extremely careful with phone calls. Never give your Social Security number to someone who calls you, even if the Caller ID says “Social Security Administration” or “Bank.” Scammers can “spoof” numbers to look official. If a business needs your information, hang up and call them back using a trusted number from their official website.