There has been some confusion tabout possible changes in the requirement for international staff to obtain social security cards. There has been no change to the IRS regulation. International staff are considered employees by the IRS because they receive pocket money and some times other benefits such as room and board. As employees, they must obtain a social security card. The Department of Homeland Security also states in its regulations that all foreign workers must obtain social security cards. This means all categories of international workers including those with J1 (camp counselor and summer work travel) or other exchange visas.
This requirement has been in effect since 1997. We urge you to work closely with your sponsoring agency and your local social security office to obtain these cards. If the cards do not arrive before the staff members leave your site, please return them to the social security office. Do not mail them to the staff members in their home countries.
