Which of the following is a requirement for non-citizens contributing to Social Security?

Valid work authorization is a critical requirement for non-citizens to contribute to Social Security. This means that non-citizens must be legally permitted to work in the United States. When individuals have valid work authorization, they can obtain a Social Security number, allowing them to pay Social Security taxes and qualify for future benefits.

Contributions to Social Security are contingent upon earnings, which are reported through an individual’s Social Security number. Without valid work authorization, non-citizens cannot legally work or earn income that is subject to Social Security taxes, thus disqualifying them from making contributions.

The other options do not accurately reflect the essential requirement for non-citizens regarding Social Security contributions. For instance, having a permanent residency card, while beneficial, is not a strict necessity for contributions, as some non-citizens on work visas can also contribute. Similarly, being on a temporary visa does not automatically disqualify someone from contributing, as long as they have work authorization. Lastly, there is no requirement that a non-citizen must have lived in the U.S. for ten years to contribute to Social Security, as contributions can begin as soon as they earn income in the country under valid work authorization.