Useful Links
How can I obtain a U.S drivers license? What can I do with U.S license?
A US license is required to drive in the United States. Although some countries have agreements with the US government that allows their residents to use their own license, a US license is much more useful when any form of standardized identification is required such as for an employer or landlord.
The link below will give you all the details on how to obtain a valid US driver’s license, which gives a primary instrument of identification, allowing for your passport and other important identification document to be stored away safely.
http://www.upenn.edu/oip/iss/forms/drivingpa.pdf
How can I obtain a Penn Card? What is the Penn Card?
The PennCard is the primary form of identification for the University of Pennsylvania and may be necessary to access some of your school’s building during restricted hours. Money and even your bank account can be linked to your PennCard giving it a potential dual role as debit card. It is requirement of the University that all students have a PennCard, follow the link below to find out how to obtain one.
*Note: Your passport or a US drivers license is necessary to obtain a PennCard
How can I obtain a Social Security Card? What can I do with a Social Security Card?
All international students and scholars who have secured legitimate employment are eligible to apply for a US Social Security Number (SSN). You will need this number to file your annual tax return, to be employed, and for a variety of other purposes, including signing up for utilities and applying for a credit card. The Below link will connect directly to the application as well as provide instructions on how to apply for a Social Security number.
How can I prevent Social Security being withheld from my wages?
If you are a foreign student or scholar on an F- 1 or J- 1 visa, and if you are also a nonresident alien for federal income tax purposes, you are exempt from Social Security (FICA) taxes (including Medicare tax) on income earned in the United States. Employers are frequently unaware of this provision of the Social Security tax law. The below link, which includes citations the relevant law, should help you demonstrate to an employer that as a nonresident F- 1 or J-1 student or scholar you are exempt from Social Security taxes.
What are the requirements of the University with regard to Immunizations, and Health Insurance?
All questions concerning health insurance, immunizations and access to health care can be answered with the below link.
