MOVING TO THE USA

The Ultimate Guide for Newcomers!

JACOB SAPOCHNICK
SAN DIEGO IMMIGRATION LAWYER
Schedule a call (Click here) +1-619-819-9204 (Direct calling)
 ABOUT THE AUTHOR AND LAW FIRM
Author: Jacob Sapochnick
Jacob Sapochnick, a seasoned Immigration Lawyer and Instagram Influencer, has been
dedicated to serving clients for over two decades. Merging law, social media, and
technology, Jacob educates and spreads positivity worldwide. Specializing in future legal
services, social media influencers, visas for special talent, corporate immigration law,
personal branding, and business development, he is a trusted advisor for entrepreneurs
and influencers alike.

The Law Offices of Jacob J. Sapochnick

For over 20 years, The Law Offices of Jacob J. Sapochnick has been wholly committed to
US and Global immigration law. Focused on the highest standards of client service, the
firm navigates the complexities of immigration law with experienced, creative, and
passionate expertise. Specializing in non-immigrant and immigrant visas, the firm
approaches each case with dedication and professionalism.
Our Expertise:
Work Visas
Temporary Visas
Permanent Visas
Family Visas
Citizenship
Start-Up Immigration
Global Immigration
International Adoptions
Deportation, Removal & Exclusion
Payroll Services
Ley de Inmigración
Marriage Equality Resource Center Jacob Sapochnick
Waivers
Special Categories of Green Card Applicants
Visa Options for Physicians

Schedule a call (Click here) +1-619-819-9204 (Direct calling)

 Client’s Feedback

Click here to read more reviews!

Schedule a call (Click here) +1-619-819-9204 (Direct calling)

If you are moving to the USA (United States of America) from overseas and want a quick
guide on how to get started, this E-book is just for you! This guide will help you find your way
around in the new country, know what documents you need, and provide some tips on
settling in.

You might be moving because of work or family reasons, or you’re an international student, or
just because it’s time for a change. Whatever your reason, moving overseas can seem
daunting, but it should go smoothly if you follow the simple steps outlined in this guide. We
will discuss the various steps involved in moving to America, what you need to do before
moving, and what to do once you get here in the USA!

PERSONALIZED GUIDANCE FOR YOUR CASE

Schedule a Consultation: https://calendly.com/jacobsapochnick
Fill-out the form: www.immigrationASAP.com

Direct Office Contact:

📞 Phone: +1-619-819-9204
📱 Text: +1-619-483-4549

Disclaimer:
For personalized guidance on your immigration case, contact Now!

Take the first step toward your immigration goals. Schedule your consultation now.

Schedule a call (Click here)

Schedule a call (Click here) +1-619-819-9204 (Direct calling)

 WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF MOVING TO THE USA?
The American Dream remains vibrant and accessible to all those who aspire to achieve it.
Making the move to America presents numerous benefits, with a significant one being the
prospect of embracing improved opportunities in the world's largest economy.

As of 2019, the United States boasted a nominal GDP of $21.5 trillion, and projections
indicate a rise to $25.3 trillion by 2024, solidifying its status as the globe's foremost economy
in terms of nominal GDP.

The USA features a dynamic free-market economy that facilitates agile business investments
and foreign direct investments. As the world's preeminent geopolitical power, the United
States holds a pivotal position in international affairs, maintaining a substantial global debt
while serving as the primary producer of the world's reserve currency (US Dollars).
Additionally, the US economy stands at the forefront of technological advancements across
various industries, hosting some of the world's most valuable companies by market
capitalization.

World’s Largest Economies in 2024 by Nominal GDP

Schedule a call (Click here) +1-619-819-9204 (Direct calling)

The USA is also a wonderful country with lots of different landscapes from deserts to
beaches. The USA has some fantastic cities that are always bustling, but you can also live in
more suburban areas and find peace if that’s what you’re looking for. So you can pretty much
find whatever you are looking for in terms of lifestyle and location.
The following are the most notable benefits of moving to America.

TOP 6 REASONS TO MOVE TO AMERICA

Abundant career opportunities for personal advancement in the world's largest
economy.

Comparatively lower costs of living and homeownership in relation to other

developed countries.

The finest higher education system globally.

Access to one of the world's premier medical facilities, contributing to an increased

life expectancy.

Varied landscapes, climates, and natural beauty catering to diverse preferences.

Enhanced quality of life, combining the economic robustness of the USA with
affordability.

Schedule a call (Click here) +1-619-819-9204 (Direct calling)

 US VISA – EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW
A U.S. visa is an immigration document that grants you entry into the United States. To obtain
a U.S. visa, you can submit an application at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate in your
country. The U.S. Department of State is typically responsible for issuing U.S. visas. However,
it's important to note that these visas come with an expiration date, ranging from 6 months to
10 years, depending on the specific type of visa you are seeking—be it for tourism,
education, work, etc.

If you are a citizen or national of a Visa Waiver Program (VWP) Designated Country and your
purpose of travel is tourism or business for a duration of 90 days or less, you may not be
required to obtain a visa.

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT US VISA CATEGORIES?

The USA visa application process varies according to the type of USA visa being applied for.
Here are the main US Visa categories for traveling to the United States

1. Tourism/Visit and Temporary Business (B1/B2 Visa)

In addition, the United States issues tourist and visitor visas to individuals who wish to come
into the country temporarily for business (visa category B-1), leisure (B-2), or both (B-1/B-2).
Examples of temporary business include attending business meetings or conferences and
negotiating contracts.

Schedule a call (Click here) +1-619-819-9204 (Direct calling)

Study & Exchange (F, M, and J Visa)
The United States is one of the primary destinations for international students. To study in the
United States, you must have a student visa. Whether you need an F or M visa depends on
the type of school and program of study you wish to attend.

Source: US Department of State

Exchange visitor (J) visas are nonimmigrant visas for individuals approved to participate in
exchange visitor programs in the United States.

Employment (H, L, O, P, Q Visa)

Temporary work visas are for foreign nationals who wish to enter the United States to legally
work for a specific length of time and do not qualify as permanent residents. Employment
visas require the employer to submit a visa petition with United States Citizenship and
Immigration Services (USCIS). An approved petition is required to apply for a work visa.

Here are the various categories of work visas in the US:

H visa: For professionals to work in a specialty occupation. Requires a higher education
degree or its equivalent.

L Visa: For Intracompany Transferee to work for a current employer in a managerial or

executive capacity or position requiring specialized knowledge in the US from their previous
location overseas in an affiliate or subsidiary.

Schedule a call (Click here) +1-619-819-9204 (Direct calling)

O Visa: For individuals with Extraordinary Ability or Achievement in the sciences, arts,
education, business, athletics, motion picture, and television fields.

P visa: Artist, Entertainer, or Athlete visa

Q Visa: Participant in an International Cultural Exchange Program

WHAT IS USCIS?
USCIS oversees immigration to the United States and approves (or denies) immigrant and
nonimmigrant visa petitions. You can check your US visa case status post your application
process on the USCIS website.

Sample US Nonimmigrant visa

Immigration Visa (Green Card)

If you are interested in immigrating to the United States permanently, you will need an
immigrant visa or what’s commonly referred to as a Green Card. The USA offers many
different immigration visas or green card options depending on your specific situation.

Schedule a call (Click here) +1-619-819-9204 (Direct calling)

There are five main types of US immigrant visa or Green card categories:
1. Family-Based Immigration – Green card for a certain family member(s) of U.S. citizens
and lawful permanent residents (green card holders)
2. Employment-Based immigration – Green card for permanent residency and
employment of temporary foreign workers and immigrant investors
3. Diversity Visa Lottery – The Diversity Visa Program (also commonly known as the green
card lottery) annually makes a limited number of green cards available to individuals who
fulfill certain eligibility requirements from nations with low immigration rates to the United
States.
4. Special Immigrant Visa – Provides a Green card to various special categories,
including former US government employees and their family member(s) in overseas
countries and asylum seekers.
5. Adoption – An adoption green card issued for children from foreign countries who US
citizens adopt.

Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) – Front

Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) – Back

Schedule a call (Click here) +1-619-819-9204 (Direct calling)

After your immigration visa petition is approved, USCIS forwards it to National Visa Center
(NVC) for immigrant visa pre-processing at the correct time. In addition, NVC will assist you
in preparing your visa application for an interview for certain visa categories at US Embassies
& Consulates.
Other Visa Categories
This includes all other visa categories such as transit visas, diplomat visas, etc

US VISA DOCUMENT REQUIREMENTS

For most nonimmigrant visas, here are the required documents for applying for a US visa:
1. Completed DS-160 form
2. Valid Passport
3. Receipt of payment of visa application fee ($160)
4. One Photograph
5. Social Media Details
6. Other supporting documents such as Bank statements / Return Flight tickets /
Employment letters etc. as applicable

HOW TO GET YOUR US VISA

Here is the step by step instructions to getting your US visa:
1. Check to see whether you require a visa or can take advantage of Visa Waiver Program
2. Select the type of US visa you will apply for based on your purpose of visit
3. Fill out the DS-160 form for a nonimmigrant visa.
4. Pay the application fee.
5. Schedule your visa interview.
6. Collect all your required supporting documents.
7. Attend your visa interview.
8. Wait until your visa is approved.

Schedule a call (Click here) +1-619-819-9204 (Direct calling)

 MOVING TO THE USA CHECKLIST
Now that you have successfully gotten your US visa, it’s time to start planning for the big
move and get you set up in your new home.
Here is the checklist of key things that you should do to plan your move, as well as keep in
mind as soon as you arrive in the US:

PLAN YOUR MOVE TO AMERICA

Moving abroad can be a daunting task. But when done right, it can also be an exciting and
fulfilling experience. Following are some of the key costs that you will have to keep in mind as
you plan your move:
Hire a professional moving company or shipping service if you need to move a lot of stuff
from your home country to the US. Packing your belongings is the first step to moving.
Consider selling or donating extra items you no longer need.
Plan your travel well in advance to save on travel costs and maintain a list of important
phone numbers and addresses.
Make sure you have all the mandatory immigration documents, required vaccinations for
the USA.
Arrange your temporary accommodation for the first few weeks as you will need some
time to find a place to rent or buy.

APPLY FOR YOUR SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER (SSN)

Social Security is a federal program that provides social insurance for citizens of the United
States. A US Social Security Number is a nine-digit number issued to identify and accurately
record wages or self-employment earnings of US residents with a social security account.
The Social Security Administration creates this account on behalf of the person when they
accept work in the USA.

When moving to America, applying for a Social Security number as soon as you arrive is
important because you will need it to get a job, collect Social Security benefits, and get other
government services.

Schedule a call (Click here) +1-619-819-9204 (Direct calling)

HOW CAN US NON-CITIZENS APPLY FOR SSN?
Only non-citizens authorized to work in the United States by the Department of Homeland
Security (DHS) can get a Social Security number.

If you’re applying for an immigrant visa (green card) from your home country, you can apply
for SSN along with your immigrant visa application and obtain your social security card
before arriving in the US. Alternatively, you can visit a social security office in person.

Nonimmigrant visa holders can apply for SSN in two ways:

1. You can apply for your SSN on the same USCIS application Form I-765 (Application for
Employment Authorization) if you are lawfully present in the United States and intend to
seek work authorization from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services
(USCIS).
2. If you are currently in the US on a valid visa and your visa status allows you to work, you
must go to a social security office in person to apply.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS FOR US NON-CITIZENS TO APPLY FOR SSN

First, the Social Security Administration will need your US immigration documents and valid
foreign passport to validate your identity and work authorization in the US.

Following are acceptable documents:

• Form I-551 (Lawful Permanent Resident Card or Immigrant Visa)
• Visa stamp showing the class of admission that permits work in the US
• Form I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record) or
• Form I-766 (Employment Authorization Document/EAD).

Sample Social Security Card

Schedule a call (Click here) +1-619-819-9204 (Direct calling)

OPEN A US BANK ACCOUNT
Many US Newcomers are unaware that some US banks allow US non-citizens to open a US
bank account without SSN or remotely before arriving in the US.

When you move to America, you’ll need to open an American bank account to pay your bills
and receive your salary. In addition, you should open a checking account with a debit card so
you may pay for things without having to carry cash all the time.

The American bank account opening process will be different based on the type of US
residency status you have currently, i.e., if you are planning to open your checking account
without SSN from your home country before arriving in the US or if you have already obtained
an SSN and are presently residing in the US.

Please refer to this detailed guide on how foreign citizens can open US bank accounts
without SSN or remotely before arriving in the US and the best ways for opening bank
accounts for foreign nationals after arriving in the US.

OBTAIN DRIVER’S LICENSE IN THE US

If you're considering a move to the USA, securing a driver's license is imperative. It not only
permits you to drive within the country but also serves as a primary local identification. To
initiate the process, visit the local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office in proximity to
your residence or workplace.
For non-citizens, the standard documents required for a driver's license application include:
1. Proof of Social Security Number (SSN): This requirement varies by state, with some not
mandating proof of SSN.
2. Valid Identification: A passport or alternative valid proof of identity is essential.
3. Proof of Residence: Provide documentation such as a utility bill or bank statements as
proof of residence in the state.
4. Photograph: A recent picture will be taken at the DMV for inclusion on your driver's
license.
It is crucial to investigate the types of driver's licenses available in your state, such as
standard licenses, Real IDs, and Enhanced licenses. Choose the one that aligns best with
your needs.

Schedule a call (Click here) +1-619-819-9204 (Direct calling)

UNDERSTAND THE AMERICAN HEALTHCARE SYSTEM
In the United States, unlike many other developed countries, healthcare is not universally
provided. Instead, it involves a mix of private medical insurance and two government
programs—Medicare and Medicaid. Healthcare in the U.S. is expensive, with Americans
paying for it directly or indirectly through insurance.

There are three main types of medical insurance coverage: private health insurance, often
provided by employers or schools; Medicaid, a joint federal-state program for low-income
individuals; and Medicare, a government program for Americans over 65. Employers may
offer health insurance, covering all or part of the premium, with additional costs for
employees.

A glossary includes terms like premium, deductible, co-insurance, and co-pay. Registering
with a Primary Care Physician (PCP) upon arrival is crucial for regular medical needs and
referrals for tests or procedures.

BUILD US CREDIT HISTORY

New immigrants and students in the US face challenges as their credit history from their
native country is absent. Building a US credit history is crucial for financial stability, with a US
credit card being the ideal starting point.

Refer to our detailed guide on How to Build Credit and get US Credit Card for New
Immigrants & International Students.

HOMEOWNERSHIP FOR NEW IMMIGRANTS IN THE USA

Owning a home in the US, whether on a temporary visa or as an immigrant, is a cost-effective
and investment-savvy choice. Contrary to common belief, building a US credit score isn't a
lengthy process, and some lenders offer competitive rates to newcomers and non-residents,
making homeownership accessible even before arrival. The benefits extend beyond
accommodation, contributing to long-term wealth accumulation.

Consult our comprehensive guide on how to get a mortgage as a new immigrant with no
credit history in the United States.
Schedule a call (Click here) +1-619-819-9204 (Direct calling)
UNDERSTAND YOUR EMPLOYEE BENEFITS IN THE US
Moving to the USA for employment offers access to top-tier benefits, enhancing the
experience for newcomers:

Health Insurance: Most US employers contribute to healthcare coverage, with

employees often paying only a percentage. This contrasts with many countries where
employees cover the full premium.
Paid Time Off (PTO): US companies provide 15-30 days off annually, including vacation
days, sick leave, and public holidays. This comprehensive PTO facilitates effective time
planning.
401k Retirement Plan: Companies offer 401k plans funded by both employee
contributions and matching funds, providing a valuable financial tool for immigrants.
Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP): Some US companies extend stock purchase
plans, enabling employees to buy company shares at a discounted rate, a unique benefit
not universally offered.

In the USA, these employment benefits establish a robust foundation for newcomers, making
it an optimal place to leverage and enjoy a fresh start in a new country.

GET ACQUAINTED WITH US FEDERAL AND LOCAL LAWS

As a US newcomer, you mustn’t get into any trouble with the law. However, you should
become familiar with some common federal laws and state or local government rules as you
settle in the US.

Apart from being a socially responsible US resident, make sure you follow some common
laws that can be easily overlooked, such as traffic laws. For example, keep an eye on speed
limits, always use your seat belt when driving, don’t drink and drive, etc. USA newcomers
should also be aware of the USA’s federal laws, such as USA immigration laws, tax system,
and labor laws.

10. US EDUCATION SYSTEM

The USA offers a top-tier education system from primary to higher education, making it an
excellent foundation for newcomers with diverse schooling options available
Schedule a call (Click here) +1-619-819-9204 (Direct calling)
UNDERSTAND AMERICAN CULTURE AND TRADITIONS
When you move to any new country, it’s only natural that you will try and build strong
connections with the locals by understanding local culture and traditions. The US has a rich
history of welcoming immigrants from different parts of the world. However, there may be
certain cultures and customs that may be different than in your home country.

Research and embrace the US culture and learn about its customs, norms, and business
etiquette. USA newcomers should also watch key US holidays and plan their social life
around such events.

UNDERSTAND AMERICAN CULTURE AND TRADITIONS

In summary, the USA, a nation built by immigrants, annually embraces countless newcomers
with prospects in employment, education, and entrepreneurship.

With a rich history as the 'land of opportunity,' the USA provides a chance for success and
happiness to those arriving on its shores.

Regardless of your background, starting anew in the USA is always possible. Explore the
nation, relish its diverse cuisines, and savor the outdoors.

Best wishes for your new life in the US, and may you fulfill your American Dream

WAYS TO GET IN TOUCH

Schedule a call by clicking the link: https://calendly.com/jacobsapochnick or
visit www.immigrationASAP.com and fill out the form and team will reach out!

Schedule a call (Click here) +1-619-819-9204 (Direct calling)