If you’re an immigrant living in the U.S. whether you’ve been here for years or just recently arrived, you may have wondered if you qualify for Social Security benefits, especially if you’re facing financial challenges. The answer is, yes, certain immigrants can qualify, but there are some important rules you need to understand.
We’ll break it all down for you in simple terms so you can get a clear picture of how to apply for these benefits. Let’s start by answering the basic question.
What Is Social Security and Why Should It Matter to Immigrants?
Social Security benefits come in two main forms: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). They both provide financial support, but they work differently.
- SSI is for people who need extra help because they’re elderly, disabled, or have low income. The best part? You don’t need to have worked in the U.S. to qualify.
- SSDI, on the other hand, is for people who’ve worked and paid into Social Security. Immigrants who have worked here may qualify for SSDI if they’ve earned enough work credits and who qualify for $3,250 SSDI & Social Security payments in 2025.
Now, you might be wondering, “Can immigrants get SSI?” Yes, they can—but with some specific conditions.
The “7-Year Rule” Explained: Who Does It Apply To?
Here’s where things get a little tricky. There’s a rule called the “7-year rule,” which applies to some immigrants. This rule allows certain immigrants to receive SSI for up to seven years while they work on fixing their immigration status. After those seven years, the benefits stop unless the person becomes a legal permanent resident.
To be eligible, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) must recognize you in one of these categories:
| Category | Who It Applies To |
| Permanent Residents | Green card holders |
| Refugees or Asylum Seekers | People who fled persecution and were accepted for asylum |
| On Parole | Immigrants with temporary permission to be in the U.S. |
| Victims of Human Trafficking | Those with a T-Visa or similar status |
| Special Cases | Certain Afghans, Iraqis, Ukrainians, and other groups with special status |
If you belong to one of these groups, you may be eligible for SSI for seven years—but there are more requirements to keep in mind. Also, check eligibility and requirements of new SSI payment of $696 on February 28, 2025.
What Else Do You Need to Qualify?
Even if you fall under one of these categories, you still need to meet one of these conditions to get SSI:
- You’ve been living legally in the U.S. since August 22, 1996, and have a disability or are blind.
- You were receiving SSI before 1996 and continue to live legally in the U.S.
- You have 40 work credits (or your spouse/parents do). You can earn up to 4 credits a year through work, so 10 years of work equals 40 credits.
- You’re a military veteran or the immediate family member of one.
- You belong to a federally recognized Native American group.
How Do You Apply for Social Security Benefits?
Before applying, you’ll need to gather some important documents. Here’s a list of what you should have ready:
- Proof of your immigration status (like a Green Card or asylum documents)
- Pay stubs or tax returns to show you have a low income
- Your work history or your family’s work credits, if applicable
- Medical reports (if you’re applying for disability benefits)
Don’t worry if you don’t have all the documents right away. The Social Security Administration (SSA) gives you time to submit any missing documents.
What Happens When the 7 Years Are Up?
As you approach the end of your seven-year period, the SSA will send you a letter to notify you when your benefits will end. With six months left, you have two options:
- Speed up your citizenship process: If you’re eligible, you can apply for U.S. citizenship by submitting Form N-400.
- Adjust your immigration status: You can apply to change to a permanent resident status with Form I-485.
If you’re receiving SSI, you can ask for a fee exemption for these immigration forms. For example, the N-400 application usually costs $725, but you could get that fee waived!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can immigrants who haven’t worked in the U.S. still get SSI?
Yes, some immigrants can qualify for SSI even if they haven’t worked, as long as they meet certain requirements, such as being a permanent resident or having a specific immigration status.
2. What is the 7-year rule?
The 7-year rule allows immigrants in certain categories to receive SSI for up to seven years while they work on their immigration status. After that, they must have legal status to continue receiving benefits.
3. How can I apply for Social Security benefits?
To apply, you’ll need proof of your immigration status, work history, income, and any medical reports if you’re applying for disability. You can apply online or in person at your local SSA office.