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For many immigrants, receiving their Employment Authorization Document (EAD) feels like the final hurdle — the long-awaited key to working legally in the United States. However, a new and frustrating issue is surfacing: even after the EAD arrives, many individuals wait up to six weeks or more for their Social Security card to appear in the mail.

A Hidden Bureaucratic Delay

During the EAD application process (Form I-765), applicants often check a box requesting that USCIS and the Social Security Administration (SSA) coordinate the issuance of a Social Security number. In theory, this streamlined approach works well.

At KVX Immigration Law, we typically see the EAD and Social Security card arrive within days of each other — sometimes even on the same day. Yet recently, more clients nationwide have encountered unexpected SSA delays, even when all paperwork was filed correctly.

Why This Delay Matters

This gap between work authorization and receipt of the Social Security card has real consequences. Many new workers experience:

• Delayed job start dates
• Embarrassment or confusion when explaining the holdup to employers
• Missed opportunities, especially in industries with tight hiring timelines
• Employer frustration, which may discourage future hiring of immigrants
• Difficulties opening bank accounts, getting paid, or filing taxes

Clearly, this issue is more than an inconvenience — it directly affects economic stability and integration for new arrivals.

A Practical Solution: Request a Local SSA Print

If you’ve been waiting more than 2–3 weeks after receiving your EAD and still haven’t received your Social Security card, you don’t have to wait any longer. Here’s what you can do:

✅ Visit Your Local SSA Office In Person

Bring the following documents:

• Your EAD card
• Your I-797 Approval Notice (for all your forms filed so far)
• A valid passport or government-issued ID
• Any confirmation from USCIS about your SSN request

When you speak to an SSA representative, explain the delay and ask them to issue your card on the spot or expedite the mailing. Many offices will comply, especially if the system confirms that your number has already been generated.

Helpful Tip: Call your local SSA office ahead of time to check if an appointment is needed.

Moving Forward

Although this delay is aggravating, it’s not insurmountable. You’ve already done the hard part — now it’s about bridging this final administrative gap. By taking action and visiting SSA directly, you can avoid unnecessary weeks of waiting.

At KVX Immigration Law, we understand how these seemingly small issues create real-world setbacks. That’s why we don’t just help you get approved — we help you get settled.

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