E2 Visa Holder Desperately Needs SSN - Can't Get Through to SSA. Help!

Ugh, welcome to bureaucracy hell! 🤦‍♂️ I swear, sometimes it feels like these government agencies are purposely making it difficult. Have you tried showing up in person? Sometimes that works better than the phone nightmare.

I feel your pain! The SSA system is a total mess rn. Have you tried calling right when they open? Sometimes that helps get through faster. Also, if you're really desperate, I've heard of people having luck contacting their local congressperson's office for help with federal agencies. Might be worth a shot?

omg i literally just went thru this exact same thing last month! it was a NIGHTMARE 😫 but i finally found a way to get someone on the phone. I used this site's (claimyr.com) calling tool that dials the phone menu, stays on hold, waits for a live agent to pick up, then sends the call to my phone. It does cost $20, but it works. here's a video about it: https://youtu.be/Z-BRbJw3puU

Here's a comprehensive guide to getting your SSN as a visa holder: 1. Ensure you've been in the US for at least 10 days before applying. The SSA needs time to verify your immigration status. 2. Gather all necessary documents: - Passport - I-94 record - Visa documents (DS-2019 for J-1, I-20 for F-1, etc.) - Any work authorization documents 3. Find your local SSA office: https://secure.ssa.gov/ICON/main.jsp 4. Try these methods to get an appointment: - Call the national number (1-800-772-1213) early in the morning - Use the local office's phone number if available - Check for online appointment scheduling options - Visit in person (some offices take walk-ins) 5. Be persistent and patient. The system is overloaded, but keep trying. 6. If all else fails, contact your local congressman's office. They can often help with federal agency issues. Hope this helps! Good luck!

have u tried faxing them? I know it sounds like some 1990s nonsense but sometimes these old school methods work with government agencies lol

As someone who works in immigration law, here's a pro tip: if you're really stuck, reach out to the SSA's Office of International Operations. They sometimes can help expedite cases for visa holders. Here's their contact info: [link removed]. Good luck!

ugh the SSA is the WORST. took me 3 months to get my issue resolved. sending good vibes your way, OP! 🙏

Have you tried reaching out to your embassy? Sometimes they can provide guidance or even intervene in cases like this. Worth a shot!

This might sound crazy, but have you tried tweeting at them? I've seen some people get responses from government agencies on social media when all else failed. Worth a shot? 🤷‍♂️

Hey Aurora! I went through this exact same nightmare about a year ago. Here's what finally worked for me: try calling the SSA number (1-800-772-1213) at exactly 8:00 AM when they open - set multiple alarms! I also found that Tuesdays and Wednesdays tend to be less busy than Mondays. Another trick: when you get the automated menu, press 0 immediately and keep pressing it - sometimes it bypasses the system and gets you to a human faster. Also, make sure you have your documents ready before you even get the appointment - they're super strict about having everything in order. Don't give up, you'll get through eventually! The bureaucracy is frustrating but persistence pays off. 💪