Information Applicable to F-1 and J-1 Students
The information below will assist you in obtaining a Social Security Number if you are eligible, a driver's license, or State Identification Card. You will also learn how to create a letter of invitation if you want to invite someone to the U.S. who is not an immediate relative.
If you are a new student, your SEVIS record must be updated by ISSS before you submit an application for a social security number or a driver's license. Please do not apply for either until after you have entered the U.S. and submitted the "Immigration Reporting Form". If not, they will turn you away.
If you recently had your SEVIS record transferred to Temple University, you must also complete the Immigration Reporting Form before applying for a social security number or driver's license. ISSS must update SEVIS before you apply and we can only do so after receiving the Immigration Reporting Form.
Adding a dependent
A dependent is defined as a spouse or child. A separate I-20 will be created for each dependent. There is no SEVIS fee for dependent I-20s.
Dependents’ Support Requirements: In addition to the expenses listed on the I-20, you must provide additional financial documentation if you plan to bring your spouse and/or child(ren).
You must have an additional $4,000 for your spouse and $2,500 for each child, as well as health insurance coverage for them.
Please review the F‐1 and J‐1 Comparison as it also compares the status for dependents