It is very difficult for persons who do not have work authorization in the U.S. to obtain a Social Security Number (SSN). If your spouse and/or children will reside in the United States, you will likely be unable to obtain a SSN for them unless they have their own independent work authorization. However, they will still need a number to identify them as unique individuals for tax and credit reasons.
For those purposes, you may obtain an IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) for each of your dependents. You would also use an ITIN if your spouse and/or children remain abroad and will not reside here, but you still intend to claim them as dependents on your income tax returns.
To obtain an ITIN, complete and submit U.S. IRS Form W-7. You will receive the ITIN via the U.S. mail in a few weeks.
For current forms or government assistance, go to
www.irs.gov.