All residents and fellows must obtain a Social Security card, which contains a number unique to the applicant. This number will be required for employment, opening a bank account, obtaining credit, etc. The application process itself should not be started until at least 10 business days after a J-1 physician’s arrival has been validated by ECFMG in SEVIS. Applying before that time may actually increase the delay in obtaining a Social Security Number. In order to apply for a Social Security card, the following documents must be submitted: Form SS-5 (application for Social Security number)