Your Ultimate Guide to Moving to the USA: A Newcomer’s Checklist

Moving to the USA is an exciting and life-changing experience, but it also comes with a long list of things to prepare before and after you arrive. From visa paperwork and housing to setting up your finances and understanding American culture, navigating this transition smoothly requires careful planning.

At Settlesmart.co, we’ve created this comprehensive checklist to guide you through every step of your journey, ensuring that you’re fully prepared for your new life in the United States.

Pre-Arrival Checklist: Preparing for Your Move

Before you even step onto U.S. soil, there are several critical tasks to complete to ensure a smooth transition.

Secure Your U.S. Visa & Immigration Documents

• Confirm your visa type (e.g., work visa, student visa, green card, investor visa).

• Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel date. 

• Collect all necessary immigration paperwork, including:

• Visa approval documents

• Form I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record)

• Work permit (if applicable)

• Green Card (if you’re a permanent resident)

• If you’re moving with family, ensure they have the right visas and documentation.

Pro Tip: If you plan to apply for a Green Card or U.S. citizenship later, start keeping copies of all immigration records and correspondence.

Choose Your U.S. Destination & Housing

The USA is a vast country with 50 states, each offering unique living experiences. Consider these factors before choosing where to live:

• Job Market – Are there opportunities in your industry?

• Cost of Living – Can you afford rent, utilities, and daily expenses?

• Climate – Do you prefer warm, cold, or four-season weather?

• Cultural & Community Fit – Would you thrive in a fast-paced city like New York or a relaxed town like Austin?

Once you choose your city, explore housing options:

• Rent an apartment (most common for newcomers).

• Buy a home (for those with long-term plans and financial stability).

• Consider temporary housing (hotels, Airbnb, or corporate housing while you search for a long-term place).

Pro Tip: Research neighborhoods before signing a lease. Check for nearby public transport, grocery stores, schools (if you have kids), and safety ratings.

Open a U.S. Bank Account

One of the first things you should do upon arrival is set up a U.S. bank account to receive salary payments, pay rent, and manage expenses.

• Research banks such as Chase, Bank of America, Citibank, or Wells Fargo.

Gather documents:

• Passport

• U.S. visa or Green Card

• Proof of address (lease, utility bill, or employer letter)

• Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) (if available)

• Consider online banks like Ally, Chime, or Capital One 360 for lower fees.

Pro Tip: Some U.S. banks offer accounts for non-residents, so you might be able to set up banking before you even arrive!

Plan Your Healthcare & Insurance

Unlike many other countries, the U.S. does not have universal healthcare, and medical costs can be extremely high. Make sure you’re covered:

Research health insurance plans through:

• Employer-sponsored insurance (if working)

• Marketplace insurance (via Healthcare.gov)

• Private insurers (Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, UnitedHealthcare)

• Schedule any necessary vaccinations and health checkups before leaving your home country.

• Bring copies of medical records and prescriptions.

Pro Tip: If you don’t have immediate health insurance upon arrival, consider short-term travel health insurance to avoid unexpected medical expenses.

Post-Arrival Checklist: Settling into Your New Life in the USA

Get Your Social Security Number (SSN) or ITIN

An SSN is required for working in the U.S., filing taxes, and even renting an apartment in some cases.

• Visit the Social Security Administration (SSA) office to apply for your SSN (for work purposes) or ITIN (for tax purposes).

  Bring:

• Passport & visa

• Form I-94 (proof of U.S. entry)

• Work authorization (if applicable)

Pro Tip: It can take 2-6 weeks to receive your SSN—so apply as soon as possible!

Get a U.S. Driver’s License or State ID

A U.S. driver’s license is the primary form of ID for most people. If you don’t drive, you can get a state-issued identification card instead.

• Visit your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to apply.

• Bring proof of identity, visa status, and residency.

• Some states require a written and driving test, while others allow license transfers from certain countries.

Pro Tip: If you don’t plan on driving, a State ID is a great alternative for identification purposes.

Set Up Your Phone & Internet

You’ll need a U.S. phone number for work, banking, and staying connected.

• Popular carriers include Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, and Mint Mobile.

• Consider prepaid plans if you don’t have a U.S. credit history yet.

• For home internet, major providers include Xfinity, Spectrum, and Google Fiber.

Pro Tip: Use Google Voice or WhatsApp to keep in touch with family abroad at lower costs.

Understand U.S. Work Culture & Employment

If you’re moving to the U.S. for work, it’s important to understand workplace norms:

• Work Hours – Standard full-time jobs are 40 hours per week (typically 9-5).

• At-Will Employment – Employers can terminate jobs without notice (unless under contract).

• Networking is Key – Sites like LinkedIn and industry events help with career growth.

• Taxes – Expect deductions for federal, state, and Social Security taxes from your paycheck.

Pro Tip: Employers often offer 401(k) retirement plans, health insurance, and paid time off (PTO)—always review your benefits package!

Final Checklist: Thriving in the U.S.

• Learn about U.S. cultural norms & customs (e.g., tipping at restaurants, small talk, and credit scores).

• Build your credit history by applying for a secured credit card or a credit-building loan.

• Explore grocery stores and local markets (Walmart, Target, Trader Joe’s, and ethnic grocery stores).

• Find social groups and communities (Meetup, Facebook groups, and local expat organizations).

• Understand U.S. tax obligations, especially if you’re earning income from abroad.

• Open a savings account and start building an emergency fund for unexpected expenses.

• Most importantly—embrace the adventure and enjoy your new home!

Ready to Start Your New Life in the USA?

Moving to the U.S. is an exciting opportunity, but proper planning is key to making the transition smooth. With this step-by-step checklist, you’ll be fully prepared to start your journey with confidence.

At SettleSmart.co, we specialize in helping newcomers navigate their move with expert guidance. Whether it’s understanding housing, understanding job applications, resume tips, or setting up a bank account, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Need a personalized moving checklist? Sign up at settlesmart.co and we’ll send one your way!

Got questions about moving to the U.S.? Drop them in the comments below!