ITIN vs SSN: Which Should Russian-Speaking Immigrant Apply For First?
Quick Answer
SSN: Work-auth visas (H-1B, L-1, O-1, OPT, EAD, GC, citizenship). Free, 2-4 weeks.
ITIN: Need to file taxes but no work-auth (B-1/B-2, F-2, H-4 no EAD). 7-11 weeks.
SSN Process
- Form SS-5 from ssa.gov
- Documents: passport, I-94, visa, employment auth
- In-person SSA office (find via ssa.gov/locator)
- Free, 2-4 weeks turnaround
ITIN Process
- Form W-7 + US tax return (1040 or 1040-NR)
- Identity: original passport or certified copy
- Mail IRS Austin TX OR use CAA office
- CAA cost $0-$300, 7-11 weeks total
Common Mistakes
Wrong visa stamp date (apply after I-94 populates ~10 days). H-4 needs EAD before SSN. F-1 student no SSN until OPT approved. Never mail original passport to IRS without CAA verification.
Russian-Speaking CAA
Brighton Beach NY, Edison NJ, Sunny Isles FL, Glendale CA, Houston TX — Russian-speaking tax preparers serve as CAA.
Frequently Asked Questions
SSN vs ITIN difference?+
SSN: work-auth visas, free, 2-4 weeks. ITIN: non-work visa needing to file taxes, $0-$300 CAA, 7-11 weeks.
Can B-2 visa get SSN?+
No. B-2 not work-authorized. Need ITIN via Form W-7 with tax return for US tax matters.
ITIN application time 2026?+
7-11 weeks via mail to IRS Austin. 3-5 weeks via CAA. Russian-speaking CAA in Brighton Beach, Edison NJ, Sunny Isles FL.
H-4 spouse needs SSN or ITIN?+
Without EAD: ITIN. After EAD approval: apply for SSN. Strategy: apply EAD first, then SSN to avoid ITIN renewal.