What should I do in my first 30 days after arriving in the USA?

Your first 30 days in the US set the foundation for your entire stay. Here's a comprehensive checklist based on what successful immigrants prioritize:

Week 1: Essential Documents & Basics

Day 1-3: Immediate Priorities

• ✅ Keep all arrival documents safe (I-94, visa stamp, passport)
• ✅ Verify I-94 online at i94.cbp.dhs.gov (check status and dates)
• ✅ Contact employer to confirm start date and paperwork
• ✅ Arrange temporary housing if not already set
• ✅ Get a US SIM card or phone plan (T-Mobile, AT&T prepaid work without SSN)

Day 4-7: Banking & SSN

• ✅ Apply for Social Security Number at local SSA office
• Bring: Passport, visa, I-94, employment letter
• SSN arrives by mail in 2-4 weeks
• Some banks don't require SSN to open account
• ✅ Open a bank account (checking first)
• Recommended: Chase, Bank of America, Capital One (immigrant-friendly)
• Bring: Passport, visa, I-94, proof of address (even hotel works initially)
• ✅ Get a US phone number if not done (needed for everything)

Week 2: Housing & Transportation

Finding Housing:

• ✅ Research neighborhoods (crime rates, commute, amenities)
• ✅ Apartments typically want:
• SSN (or ITIN/passport if not yet available)
• Proof of income (offer letter works for new arrivals)
• Bank statements
• First month + security deposit + sometimes last month
• ✅ Consider 6-month lease initially for flexibility

Transportation:

• ✅ Research if you need a car (depends heavily on city)
• ✅ If needed: Get International Driving Permit (if from abroad)
• ✅ Start process for state driver's license
• Requirements vary by state
• Typically: Vision test, written test, driving test
• ✅ Learn public transit options in your city

Week 3: Healthcare & Work Setup

Healthcare:

• ✅ Understand your employer's health insurance options
• ✅ Enroll in health insurance (don't miss the deadline!)
• ✅ Find in-network doctors near you
• ✅ Transfer prescriptions if needed (may need new US prescription)

Employment:

• ✅ Complete I-9 form with employer (within 3 days of start)
• ✅ Set up direct deposit for paycheck
• ✅ Understand your benefits (401k, HSA, etc.)
• ✅ Fill out W-4 for tax withholding

Week 4: Credit Building & Settling In

Start Building Credit:

• ✅ Apply for secured credit card (Discover, Capital One)
• ✅ If SSN received, check your credit report at annualcreditreport.com
• ✅ Consider credit-builder loan if available

Quality of Life:

• ✅ Get library card (free, tons of resources)
• ✅ Find ethnic grocery stores for familiar foods
• ✅ Join local expat communities (Meetup, Facebook groups)
• ✅ Set up utilities in your name
• ✅ Get renter's insurance ($15-30/month, protects belongings)

Important Don'ts:

• ❌ Don't let your I-94 or visa expire without taking action
• ❌ Don't work for anyone other than your sponsor (if on H1B)
• ❌ Don't forget to notify employer of address changes
• ❌ Don't ignore mail - important documents come by mail
• ❌ Don't assume anything from home works the same way here

Apps to Download Immediately:

Estimated First Month Costs:

Pro tip: Many companies offer relocation assistance or signing bonuses. Negotiate this before accepting to cover first-month costs.