Can You Get Life Insurance Without an SSN or U.S. Citizenship? What Families Need to Know in 2025
For many families in Texas and New Mexico, life insurance isn’t just a financial product — it’s peace of mind. But what if you or a loved one doesn’t have a Social Security Number (SSN)? What if one family member is a U.S. citizen and the other isn’t?
The good news: You can get life insurance without an SSN. The path is more complex, but it’s absolutely possible when you know the rules, the right carriers, and how to prepare.
Can You Get Life Insurance Without a Social Security Number?
Yes — several carriers will issue policies without an SSN if you can provide alternative identification. Most will accept:
Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
Valid foreign passport
Consular identification card
Insurance companies use these documents for identity verification and compliance with U.S. financial regulations. Some may also request proof of residency status, even if you’re not a U.S. citizen.
Life Insurance for Non-U.S. Citizens
If you’re in the U.S. on a visa or as a permanent resident, your options are broader than you might think. Many mainstream carriers welcome applicants who:
Hold a valid work visa or student visa
Are lawful permanent residents (green card holders)
Maintain a stable U.S. address and bank account
The key difference is underwriting — your approval may hinge on your length of stay in the U.S., your visa type, and whether you plan to remain here long-term.
Life Insurance for Undocumented Immigrants
Undocumented immigrants face the most limited options, but policies do exist. Some carriers will approve applications if you:
Have an ITIN
Can provide acceptable photo ID (passport or consular card)
Meet the same health and age requirements as any other applicant
Final expense or simplified issue life insurance may also be available — these policies usually require no medical exam and can be approved quickly, though coverage amounts are often lower.
Can a Non-U.S. Citizen Be a Life Insurance Beneficiary?
Yes. You can name anyone as your life insurance beneficiary, regardless of their citizenship. However, if your beneficiary lives abroad, there are two important considerations:
Payment Logistics: The insurance company will still pay the claim, but the funds may need to go through international banking channels, which can slow the process.
Currency & Taxes: Exchange rates and local tax laws in your beneficiary’s country can affect the amount they ultimately receive.
Do You Have to Be a U.S. Citizen to Get Life Insurance?
No — and this is one of the most common myths in the industry. Life insurance is about risk, not citizenship. Carriers want to know you are who you say you are, you have insurable interest, and you’re not applying for fraudulent purposes.
No Papers? How to Still Protect Your Family
If you have no SSN, no ITIN, and limited documentation, you still have a few avenues:
Accidental Death Insurance: Pays out if death is caused by an accident. No SSN required with some carriers.
Group Life Insurance: Offered through certain employers or associations, often without strict ID requirements.
Final Expense Coverage: Smaller policies intended for funeral and burial costs, often available with minimal paperwork.
Be cautious of anyone promising “guaranteed” life insurance without explaining the policy type, cost, and limits — these offers can be predatory.
Bottom Line
Life insurance without an SSN is possible — whether you’re a visa holder, permanent resident, or part of a mixed-status family. The process comes down to knowing which carriers to approach, what documents to provide, and how to navigate underwriting requirements.
An experienced, ethical agent can help you secure the right coverage without wasted time or false promises. If you’re in Texas or New Mexico and need guidance, I can walk you through your options step by step.
