Moving To The US: What You Need To Know

If you are thinking of moving to the US, then you need to make sure that you are properly prepared. There are many steps that you will need to take to ensure that you are legally covered and to give yourself the best shot at success.

Whether you are arriving for new employment or looking to start your own business, here is what you need to know.

Start Preparing Now

Find out as much as you can before you move. Remember that COVID-19 restrictions may still be slowing administration down and affecting travel. Contact your employer for advice on how you can speed up the process.

Read city guides for the area you are moving to. Prepare for a background check and a criminal record check.

Find your academic certificates, your bank statements, your driver’s license and any marriage or birth certificates.

Get Insurance

Look for a health insurance policy before you move. Provide as much information as you can to avoid losing out on any payments. Remember that healthcare is not paid for by the state in the US as it is in other countries.

Find The Right Visa

Talk to an immigration lawyer about which visa is right for you. Talk to your employer if they are sponsoring your visa. Prepare all your documents and references as early as possible to avoid delays. Ask your immigration lawyer about which visa you need if you are starting a new business.

Consider that you may need to apply for visas for employees for your business. Find out if the requirements have changed in recent years. Look at H2A visa regulations to learn what is needed for an agricultural business looking for seasonal immigrant workers.

Apply for a visa even if you are moving with an American citizen. Remember that your partner will need to apply for a visa if they are moving with you and are not a US citizen.

Know Your Laws

Research the laws and legislation of the state you are moving to. Be aware that some laws are different from state to state. Find out what tax you need to be paying as an immigrant and remember that you may be paying taxes in your home nation too.

Factor in sales tax on any purchases and remember that it changes depending on the state. Learn the US-specific laws including the drinking age and driving restrictions.

Learn about liability in case of an accident at work or on the road. Tip your service industry employees wherever you go (this is not a law, but it is expected).