Tips for Newcomers to Easily Settle in the U.S.

Every year, the United States of America welcomes thousands of immigrants from all over the world.

As a diverse, beautiful country full of opportunities, starting a new life in the U.S. could be one of the most important decisions you ever make.

The first few months can be challenging for new immigrants, but if you’re unsure where to start or what to prepare for, this article will provide you with the most valuable tips for settling in the U.S. Do not miss it!

1. Settling in the U.S.: Tips for Your First Week

As a new immigrant to the United States, everything might seem unfamiliar, almost as if you are starting from scratch. 

However, with some of the following tips for U.S. immigration, your new life in the U.S. can become more manageable and comfortable:

1.1. Housing in the U.S.

One of the first things you’ll need to do upon arriving in the U.S. is to find a place to rent as soon as possible. While you’re searching, it is advisable to book a short-term stay at a hotel or Airbnb.

You will want to look for an apartment close to your workplace or school. There are several websites you can browse before you arrive in the U.S. Some popular sites to find apartments include Apartments.com, Rent.com, and Zillow.com.

Apartment management may request a letter outlining your intended length of stay in the U.S. and employment information to verify your identity. You might also need some credit history, as well as payment for the first and last month’s rent, along with a security deposit, to move in.

1.2.  Social Security Number (SSN)

Register for your SSN at least 7 days after arriving in the U.S. to receive it promptly. You will not receive a paycheck without an SSN. The first thing you need to do is apply for an SSN.

Make sure to check the SSN website online and bring all necessary documents to the SSN office. You will need to coordinate with your employer regarding this process and follow their guidance if needed.

1.3. Opening a Bank Account

As soon as you arrive in the U.S., you should visit a bank and open a checking account. TD Bank often allows you to open a checking account without an SSN. By opening a bank account, you’ll receive a U.S. debit card immediately.

In addition, you should check with your employer about the bank they use and open an account at that bank. This can simplify your financial transactions and integration into the new environment.

1.4. Learning to Drive

It is a good idea to download and read the driver’s manual for the state you will be moving to in the U.S. You will want to familiarize yourself with driving regulations and obtain your driver’s license.

1.5. Obtaining a Driver’s License

Having a driver’s license is crucial in the U.S., but if you do not plan on driving, you may still want to obtain a state ID.

You can visit your state’s DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) website for information about learner’s permits and driver’s licenses. Prepare by reviewing relevant materials and taking the written test.

It is important to complete this process to avoid delays in obtaining your driver’s license.

1.6. Establishing Credit and Obtaining a Secured Credit Card

Building a credit history is crucial when settling in the U.S. It can be challenging to get an apartment, a mobile phone plan, a car, and other necessities without a credit history.

After opening a bank account, the next step is to apply for a secured credit card.

Request your bank to issue a secured credit card, which is essentially a credit card with a lower limit (such as $500) that requires a cash deposit as collateral. This is important for building your credit history.

Having a credit card helps you manage payments and receive wages more conveniently.

1.7. Getting a Mobile Phone Plan – Prepaid or Postpaid

You have two options for mobile phone plans: prepaid and postpaid. Postpaid plans may require a credit check, so if you haven’t established credit yet, you might prefer a prepaid plan.

2. Tips for Living in the U.S.: Understanding Geography and States

Living in a new country surrounded by new people and cultures can be both exciting and stressful. In your new life in the U.S., you will face many changes and differences.

The U.S. might be very different from your home country, meaning there will be a lot to learn and explore before you arrive as a new resident.

To make your transition smoother and help you explore nature and climate across the U.S., you need to understand the geographical layout and states.

The United States of America is the third-largest country in the world by land area and nearly third in population. Located in North America, it is bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the west and the Atlantic Ocean to the east.

To the north is Canada, and to the south is Mexico. The country comprises 50 states and the District of Columbia.

The U.S. is divided into six regions, each with its own states:

New England – European settlers came to New England in search of religious freedom.

• Maine
• New Hampshire
• Vermont
• Massachusetts
• Rhode Island
• Connecticut

Mid-Atlantic – These industrial areas attracted millions of European immigrants and are home to some of the largest cities on the East Coast: New York, Baltimore, and Philadelphia.

• Delaware
• Maryland
• New Jersey
• New York
• Pennsylvania
• Washington D.C.

South – All faced difficulties following the Civil War, which lasted from 1860-1865.

• Alabama
• Florida
• Arkansas
• Georgia
• Kentucky
• Louisiana
• Mississippi
• North Carolina
• South Carolina
• Tennessee
• Virginia
• West Virginia

Midwest – Known for its agricultural base and often referred to as the “breadbasket of the nation.”

• Illinois
• Indiana
• Iowa
• Kansas
• Michigan
• Minnesota
• Missouri
• Nebraska
• North Dakota
• Ohio
• South Dakota
• Wisconsin

Southwest – Home to some of the world’s great natural wonders, including the Grand Canyon and Carlsbad Caverns, with stunning landscapes of prairies and deserts.

• Arizona
• New Mexico
• Oklahoma
• Texas

West – Known for its rolling plains and cowboys, symbolizing the pioneering spirit of America.

The West is incredibly diverse, ranging from vast wilderness to arid deserts, coral reefs to Arctic tundra, and from Hollywood to Yellowstone.

• Alaska
• California
• Colorado
• Hawaii
• Idaho
• Montana
• Nevada
• Oregon
• Utah
• Washington
• Wyoming

3. Understanding the U.S. Government Structure

For new immigrants to the U.S., understanding the American government structure is crucial for navigating the legal system and political landscape.

3.1 Government Structure

The U.S. Constitution divides the federal government into three branches to ensure no single person or group holds too much power:

• Legislative Branch – Makes laws (Congress – the House of Representatives and the Senate)
• Executive Branch – Enforces laws (President, Vice President, the Cabinet, and most federal agencies)
• Judicial Branch – Interprets laws (Supreme Court and other federal courts)

3.2 Legislative Branch

The Legislative Branch drafts proposed laws, confirms or rejects presidential nominations for federal agency heads, federal judges, and the Supreme Court, and has the authority to declare war.

This branch includes Congress (the Senate and the House of Representatives) and various agencies and offices that provide support services to Congress. U.S. citizens have the right to elect Senators and Representatives through free and secret ballots.

Senate: Each state elects two Senators, totaling 100 Senators. Senators serve six-year terms with no term limits.

House of Representatives: Composed of 435 Representatives, apportioned among the 50 states based on population. Additionally, there are non-voting Delegates representing Washington D.C. and U.S. territories.

Representatives serve two-year terms, and there are no term limits.

3.3 Executive Branch

The Executive Branch enforces and implements laws. It includes the President, Vice President, the Cabinet, executive departments, independent agencies, and various councils, committees, and commissions. U.S. citizens have the right to elect the President and Vice President through free and secret ballots.

Key roles in the Executive Branch include:

President: The President leads the country as the head of state, head of the federal government, and Commander-in-Chief of the U.S. Armed Forces. The President serves a four-year term and can be elected for no more than two terms.

Vice President: The Vice President assists the President. If the President is unable to serve, the Vice President assumes the role of President. The Vice President can be elected for an unlimited number of four-year terms, even under different Presidents.

Cabinet: Cabinet members advise the President. This group includes the Vice President, heads of executive departments, and other senior government officials. Cabinet members are nominated by the President and must be confirmed by a simple majority of the Senate—51 votes if all 100 Senators vote.

3.4 Judicial Branch

The Judicial Branch interprets the meaning of laws, applies laws to individual cases, and determines whether laws violate the Constitution. It includes the Supreme Court and other federal courts.

Supreme Court: The Supreme Court is the highest court in the United States. Justices of the Supreme Court are nominated by the President and must be confirmed by the Senate. The Supreme Court consists of nine Justices: one Chief Justice and eight Associate Justices. A minimum of six Justices must be present to decide a case.

If there is an even number of Justices and the result is a tie, the decision of the lower court stands.

There is no fixed term for Justices. They serve until they die, retire, or are removed under special circumstances.

Federal Courts and Judicial Agencies: The Constitution grants Congress the power to establish other federal courts to handle cases related to federal laws, including tax and bankruptcy cases, disputes involving the U.S. government, state laws, or the Constitution. Other federal judicial agencies and programs support the courts and research judicial policies.

4. Experience with Renting and Buying a House in the U.S.

4.1 Renting a House

One option is to stay at a hotel or a hostel. There are various housing options across the U.S. Almost all cities and even most small towns have rental apartments.

Larger cities offer more choices, including rental apartments, room rentals, rental houses, and university-style dormitories.

After arriving in the U.S., you will need to find temporary accommodation until you can rent or buy a home

Types of Housing in the U.S.:

• Detached Houses: Standalone homes with surrounding property.
• Townhouses and Row Houses: Homes where each house shares a wall with its neighbors.
• Condominiums (Condos): Individual units within a larger building or complex.

Types of Rental Apartments:

• 1-3 Bedroom Apartments: Units with one to three separate bedrooms.
• Studio Apartments: Single-room units combining living and sleeping areas.
• Room Rentals: Often in larger houses divided into separate rooms for rent.

However, those who are new to living in the U.S. need to learn some of the following experiences in settling in the U.S. in buying a house to get the house they want, suitable for their finances.

1. Research: Be cautious if an offer seems too good to be true or requires you to transfer money. Ensure your housing is within a reasonable distance to your workplace and in a safe, well-served area with affordable transportation options.
2. Lease Agreement: When you decide on a place to live, you may be asked to sign a lease agreement. This document records that you have rented a house or apartment. Without it, you might not be protected.
3. Security Deposit: Your landlord may ask for a security deposit in addition to the first month’s rent. This deposit is meant to cover any potential damage to the property. If no damage occurs, the deposit should be returned to you at the end of the lease.
4. Move-In Inspection: When you move in, document any existing damage and send this information to your landlord via email or letter. Keep a copy for yourself.
5. Rent Payments: Make sure you know when your rent is due to avoid late fees. Regardless of how you pay—cash, credit card, or check—always obtain a receipt.
6. Move-Out: Schedule a walkthrough with your landlord to review the condition of the property. It is advisable to take photos or videos when moving out. If you leave before the agreed date in the lease, you may lose your deposit.
7. Deposit Return: If the property is in good condition, you will receive your deposit back. Some of the deposit may not be refunded if specified in your lease agreement.

4.2 Driving Experience in the U.S.

In the United States, driver’s licenses are issued by individual states, territories, and federal districts rather than the federal government due to the Federalist system.

Drivers are generally required to have a license from their state of residence, and all states recognize each other’s licenses for temporary visitors, following standard age requirements.

Although each state has different requirements for obtaining a U.S. driver’s license, common requirements generally include:

• Must be at least 16 years old.
• You must provide valid identification.
• Pass a written driving test.
• Pass a practical driving test.

5. Living in the U.S.: Education and School Life

Understanding the U.S. education system when you first move to the United States will help you choose the right educational environment for your children and learn about school life, making it easier to manage school drop-offs and pick-ups.

5.1 The U.S. Education System

a. Elementary and Secondary Education 

By law, children in the U.S. must attend school. Depending on the state or territory, children typically start school at age 5 or 6 and continue until they are between 16 and 18 years old.

Schools in the U.S.:

• Begin with kindergarten and continue from 1st grade through 12th grade.
• Usually start in late August and end around late June.
• Children attend school from Monday to Friday during the school year (excluding holidays).
• Award a high school diploma to students who successfully complete secondary education (high school).

If you and your family arrive in the U.S. during the school year, contact the local school board to find a place for your child.

It is up to parents to choose the type of school for their children, such as:

• Free Public Schools
• Private Schools with Tuition
• Homeschooling

b. Secondary Education:

In the U.S., there are various types of post-secondary schools:

• State Colleges or Universities
• Private Colleges or Universities
• Community Colleges
• Institutes of Technology

c. Public Colleges or Universities

A state college or university is supported and operated by state or local government. 

Each of the 50 U.S. states runs at least one state university, and many have several state colleges.

Many of these public universities have the state’s name or the word “State” in their names, such as Washington State University and the University of Michigan.

d. Private Colleges or Universities

These schools are privately operated rather than run by a government branch. Tuition is generally higher than at public schools.

Typically, U.S. private colleges and universities are smaller in size compared to public institutions.

Religious-affiliated universities and colleges are private schools. Almost all of these schools welcome students of all religions and beliefs.

However, some of these institutions prefer to admit students who share the religious beliefs upon which the school was founded.

e. Community Colleges 

Community colleges are two-year institutions that offer associate degrees (which can be transferable) as well as certificates.

There are various types of associate degrees, but the key distinction is whether the degree is transferable.

Typically, community colleges offer two main degree programs: an academic transfer program and a program designed to prepare students for immediate entry into the workforce.

Transferable degrees are generally Associate of Arts (AA) or Associate of Science (AS) degrees. Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degrees and certificates of completion are usually not transferable.

Graduates of community colleges often transfer to four-year colleges or universities to complete their degrees.

Since they can transfer credits earned at the community college, they may complete their bachelor’s degree in two additional years. Many community colleges also offer intensive English or ESL programs, which prepare students for college-level coursework.

5.2 School Life in the U.S. 

Teachers: Teachers typically have a university degree.

Coeducational Classes: In most schools, boys and girls learn together in the same classroom. However, some private schools are single-gender, catering exclusively to either boys or girls.

School Curriculum: Each state and territory has official subjects that students are taught at each grade level.

Religion: Some states have separate public religious schools where students of any faith can attend. Most communities also have private religious schools.

Textbooks and School Supplies: Schools lend textbooks to students. However, you will need to purchase school supplies such as pencils and paper for your child.

Special needs: Students may receive support if they have special needs, which can include:

• Physical
• Cognitive
• Psychological
• Emotional
• Behavioral
• Language-related

Report Cards: Students receive report cards multiple times throughout the school year to inform you of their progress.

School Attendance: Children are required to attend school every day. If they miss school due to illness or personal reasons, the school must be notified.

Getting to school: Children can get to and from school in various ways:

• With their parents
• On their own
• By school bus
• Check with the school for information about school buses and public transportation options. 

Dress Code: Children must follow the school’s dress code. Some schools require students to wear uniforms.

Extracurricular Activities: These are activities that take place before school, after school, or during lunch. They include sports, arts, hobby clubs, and more. Each school offers different extracurricular activities for students.

6. Healthcare Experience in the U.S.

Healthcare in the United States is provided by numerous separate organizations, with healthcare facilities primarily owned and operated by private sector businesses.

In the U.S., health insurance refers to any program that helps cover medical costs, whether through privately purchased insurance, social insurance, or government-funded social welfare programs. Synonyms for this usage include “health insurance,” “healthcare insurance,” and “health benefits.”

7. Financial Experience in the U.S.

Currency 

The official currency of the United States is the U.S. dollar ($), with 100 cents (¢) making up one dollar. Coins vary in size, shape, and color.

Exchanging Foreign Currency to U.S. Dollars 

Before arriving in the U.S., it is advisable to exchange some of your home country’s currency for U.S. dollars. You can also exchange money after arrival, as most airports have currency exchange offices. In addition, you can use a foreign debit or credit card to withdraw cash from Automated Banking Machines (ABMs), also known as ATMs.

See more: How to transfer money to the U.S. quickly and legally for immigration.

Banking in the U.S. 

Banking in the U.S. is regulated by both federal and state governments. The five largest banks in the U.S. that you might consider are:

• JPMorgan Chase
• Bank of America
• Citigroup
• Wells Fargo
• Goldman Sachs

8. Tips for Improving English When Settling in the U.S.

English is the official language of the U.S. Having strong English skills will help you:

• Get a job
• Attend school
• Access services
• Assist your children with their schoolwork
• Meet and talk with people
• Obtain U.S. citizenship

9. Tips for Job Searching When Settling in the U.S.

Your success in finding a job in the U.S. may depend on your green card, which is your permanent work permit. Here are some tips to speed up your job search:

• Adhere to the common resume and cover letter structures used in the U.S. This will help you present your qualifications effectively.
• Participate in networking activities on LinkedIn. Connect with professionals in your field and engage in discussions.
• Showcase Your Talents: Ensure your LinkedIn profile highlights work samples, skills, qualifications, contact information, and career achievements.
• Write Follow-Up Emails

Here is information surrounding the experience of immigrating to the U.S., hopefully, it will help you have a comprehensive view and an overview of the things you need to prepare when immigrating to the U.S., making life in the U.S. more comfortable.

If you have any further questions, such as what to do upon arrival in the U.S., or want to learn more about different immigration categories, feel free to comment below. The ImmiPath team is here to assist and guide you with the expertise, helping you choose the best path for your U.S. settlement.