According to a representative of the US government Social Security Office in Ogdensburg, New York, Social Security cards issued to non-citizens for non-employment purposes contain the words "not valid for employment" or "valid for employment with INS documentation," INS being the Immigration and Naturalization Service (18 Jan. 1994). This information is typed onto the card in a space provided above the Social Security card number (ibid.).

The representative added that US Social Security cards are approximately two by three inches in size, are not plasticized, and are either blue or white depending on the date of issue. The representative was unable to provide information concerning the colour of cards currently being issued. A photograph of the person to whom the card is issued is not affixed to the card (ibid.).

This response was prepared after researching publicly accessible information currently available to the DIRB within time constraints. This response is not, and does not purport to be, conclusive as to the merit of any particular claim to refugee status or asylum.

United States Social Security Office, Ogdensburg, NY. 18 January 1994. Telephone interview with representative.