people needs to be US citizen for applying SSI?

Answer 1

Yes, you must be US citizen. It is a federal welfare program, NOT part of Social Security & not paid from Social Security funds paid in by legal, authorized workers such as citizens & legal permanent residents, etc. Under Public Charge laws, any non-citizen who applies for or uses any public benefits - including welfare, WIC, Medicaid/MediCal, SSI, etc. - is permanently ineligible for citizenship & can be ordered deported/mandatory departure with permanent bar to reentry. 

Answer 2

"Permanent residents (LPRs) cannot apply for SSI benefits until they have lived in the U.S. for five years. After five years in the U.S., an LPR will qualify for SSI only if he or she has credit for 40 "quarters" of work." ~ Nolo

Answer 3

you don't have to be a citizen to apply for it but you need to be a citizen to receive it

Answer 4

Yes. It is welfare, and green card holders are not allowed welfare. Your sponsor needs to support you if you can't support yourself.

Answer 5

You can be an immigrant as long as you have paid into the social security system for the required numbers of years then you can collect SSI

Answer 6

SSI yes

SS disability no

Regular SS no

Answer 7

I think you mean 'to receive SSI' not 'apply for'.   You do not need to be a US citizen but the rules for non citizens are complex.  To be an eligible non citizen you must both meet the disability requirements and be a permanent resident with 40 qualifying quarters of work.  Refugees have different rules.

Source(s): 25 years as a greencard holder

Answer 8

Just to apply, probably not .

Answer 9

Really, thanks for telling us. Did you have a question to ask?

Answer 10

I certainly hope so!