USA: Rule change halts Automatic Social Security numbers for millions of immigrants

USA: Rule change halts Automatic Social Security numbers for millions of immigrants

A recent policy change by the U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA) has halted the automatic issuance of Social Security numbers (SSNs) for many legal immigrants, causing significant delays in their ability to work and access essential services, The Guardian reported.

The decision, made without public notice on March 19, 2025, paused the Enumeration Beyond Entry (EBE) program—a collaboration between the SSA and the Department of Homeland Security since 2017 that streamlined SSN issuance for immigrants granted work authorization or naturalization.

Now, affected individuals must visit SSA field offices in person to apply for SSNs, placing added strain on already understaffed offices. The SSA cited a 90-day pause to review its enumeration procedures, but critics argue the change unnecessarily burdens legal immigrants. Immigration lawyers report widespread confusion and hardship, including job loss, inability to open bank accounts, and delays in other essential services.

Meanwhile, SSA offices face increased workloads while grappling with staffing cuts and office closures. The cost to process SSNs through field offices is also significantly higher than through EBE. Advocates and Democratic lawmakers have called on the SSA to reverse the decision, arguing the policy shift lacks justification and undermines the integration of legal immigrants into the workforce and society.