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Moving to the U.S. What You Need to Know (and Do) – Bonus Checklist

🌎 Moving to the U.S. What You Need to Know (and Do) – Bonus Checklist

Relocating to the United States is a massive milestone. Whether you're moving for work, launching a startup, or just chasing a new adventure, the process involves more than just packing boxes. From setting up a phone plan to finding a home, you’ll face a system that assumes everyone has a U.S. credit history—even though most new arrivals don’t.

This guide covers what you need to bring, how to get set up, and how to avoid the biggest roadblocks international newcomers face, especially when it comes to navigating life without a U.S. credit score.

✈️ What to Bring When Moving to the U.S.

Essential documents:

  • Valid passport with visa/Green Car
  • I-94 travel record and visa paperwork
  • International driver’s license (IDP if possible)
  • Academic or professional certifications
  • Vaccination and health records
  • Bank reference letters or proof of funds
  • Rental references (to help with housing)
  • Birth certificates & marriage certificate (certified translations if not in English)

Financial prep:

  • Keep a mix of cash and credit cards for the first month
  • Notify your home bank about potential upcoming international transactions
  • Set up international mobile banking or open a U.S. account remotely (some banks allow this, such as EX)

📦 How to Ship Your Belongings to the U.S.

You’ve got options:

  • Air freight: Faster but more expensive
  • Sea freight: Cheaper for large shipments, but slower (4–8 weeks)
  • International  moving companies like Sirelo, ShipSmart, and UPak WeShip can manage door-to-door logistics.

Don’t forget customs: You may need to provide a full inventory, proof of ownership, and your visa status.

🧾 How to Get a Social Security Number (SSN)

Once you're in the U.S. and legally authorized to work:

  1. Visit your nearest Social Security Administration (SSA) office.
  2. Bring your passport, visa, I-94, and work authorization documents.
  3. It typically takes 1–3 weeks to receive your SSN card. Apply as soon as possible to ensure your documents are received quickly as this is required for US Work Authorization through Form I9

You’ll need your SSN for:

  • Employment
  • Opening bank accounts
  • Getting a driver’s license
  • Signing leases or utility contracts
  • Filing taxes

🚘 Getting a U.S. Driver’s License (If you plan to operate a motor vehicle)

If you're staying long-term, most states require you to get a U.S. driver's license within a few months.

Steps:

  1. Schedule a visit with your local DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles).
  2. Pass a written test and driving test (some states may waive this).
  3. Provide your visa, proof of residence, and SSN.
  4. Pay the license fee (usually $30–$50).

Tip: Many states allow you to drive on your foreign license + passport for a limited time (30–90 days). Check the rules by state.

If you don't need a driving license get a state ID. You will need to present formal ID on a regular basis and the only other alternative is a passport. Its very high risk to take your passport with your visa in out with you every day e.g. to get a drink in any bar you will need ID.

📱 Can I Keep My Foreign Phone Number?

Yes, but with limitations.

Short term:

  • Use international  roaming or WhatsApp/Signal tied to your foreign number.

Long term:

  • Consider porting your number to a VoIP provider (like Google Voice) to keep it active.
  • Get a U.S. SIM with T-Mobile, Mint Mobile, AT&T, or Verizon.

Credit issue: Most postpaid plans require a U.S. credit check. Use a prepaid plan while building your credit as these do not require credit and are renewed on a month-to-month basis.

🔐 Why Credit Matters in the U.S.

The U.S. economy runs on credit history. Without it, you’ll find it harder to:

  • Rent an apartment
  • Lease or finance a car
  • Get utilities without large deposits
  • Access premium credit cards

🧩 Building Credit From Day One: Tips & Tools

✅ Start with a Secured Credit Card

Banks like Discover, Capital One, and Chime offer cards where you deposit cash (e.g., $500) to match your limit. After 6–12months of responsible use, you’ll likely qualify for an unsecured card.

🌍 Transfer Your Foreign Credit: Amex Global Card Transfer

If you had an American Express card in your home country, you may be able to transfer your credit history to the U.S.

Steps

  1. Visit the Amex Global Card Transfer page.
  2. Choose the U.S. as your destination.
  3. Apply with your existing credentials.
  4. Get approved for a U.S.-issued Amex with a pre-established limit.

This is one of the few fast-tracks to starting your U.S. credit file.

🏠 Renting an Apartment Without Credit

Challenges:

Landlords often require a credit score to determine a Deposit amount (lower/less credit = higher risk)

You may be asked for:

  • Several months of rent upfront
  • A co-signer
  • Proof of employment/income

‍Solutions

  • Use international-friendly rental platforms (e.g., Blueground, HelloLanding, June Homes) 
  • Ask your employer or PEO (like In2America) for relocation or housing assistance.
  • Show proof of funds or offer to pay extra security deposit.

🚗 Buying or Leasing a Car without Credit

You might face:

  • Higher interest rates
  • Loan rejections
  • Larger down payments

Workarounds:

  • Buy used with cash
  • Use expat auto leasing services like International AutoSource or ExpatRide
  • Ask your employer or partner org to co-sign or support your purchase

✅ U.S. Relocation Checklist for International Professionals & Founders

Whether you’re relocating solo, with a partner, or with children, this checklist will guide you through all the major logistics of settling in the U.S.

🧳Before You Move Make Sure You Have:

  • Valid passport with 6+ months remaining
  • Approved U.S. visa (e.g., H-1B, L-1, E-2, O-1)
  • Employment offer letter or founder documentation
  • Academic diplomas and employment reference letters
  • International driver’s permit (IDP) or license
  • Medical records and immunizations
  • Birth certificates & marriage certificate (certified translations if not in English)
  • Credit reference letter or bank statements from your home country
  • Set up a global American Express card for easy U.S. transfer
  • Research U.S. healthcare and compare plans (employer-based or ACA)
  • Hire a reputable international shipping company
  • Confirm school enrollment documents for children (see family section below)

🛬Upon Arrival in the U.S.

  • Apply for Social Security Number (SSN)
        → Required for work, taxes, credit, and more
  • Open a U.S. bank account
        → Bring passport, visa, proof of address, and SSN (if available)
  • Apply for U.S. credit card or secured card
        → Use Amex Global Transfer if possible
  • Get a U.S. mobile phone number
        → Start prepaid if no credit history yet
  • Enroll in health insurance
        → Through employer or private insurer
  • Apply for a U.S. driver’s license (if applicable)
        → Rules vary by state; most allow you to drive temporarily on your foreign license
  • Set up housing and utilities
        → Some landlords/utilities may require extra deposit without credit history

🏫 If Relocating With Kids(School-Age)

  • Bring children’s school transcripts and vaccination records
  • Research public vs. private schools in your new area
  • Understand zoning rules for public school enrollment
  • Book appointments for any state-required immunizations
  • Prepare for English language support (ELL/ESL) if needed
  • Connect with the school to schedule:
       
    • Assessment or placement tests
      •  
    • School tours or orientation day
  • Buy or ship:
       
    • School uniforms (if required)
      •  
    • Laptops/tablets (if school-supplied tech is not provided)
    •  
  • Register for school transportation and after-school programs
  • Find local pediatricians and dentists
  • Join local expat or parent communities for support

🧾 Legal & Compliance

  • File IRS Form W-9 or W-8BEN (as required)
  • Understand state tax obligations
  • Track visa timelines and potential green card paths
  • Learn about COBRA (healthcare continuation after job changes)
  • Get support with:
       
    • Payroll, if employing others
      •  
    • Workers’ comp and insurance, if starting a business

📱 Services &Subscriptions

  • Streaming (Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, etc.)
  • Amazon Prime US
  • Uber, Lyft, DoorDash apps 
  • Local public transport cards (e.g., MetroCard, Clipper)
  • DMV appointment (license/vehicle)
  • Notary service for school or legal docs

🔒 Extra Protection

  • Renters or homeowners insurance (these are typically required when renting or purchasing a home)
  • Auto insurance if driving
  • Identity theft protection (recommended if you're building credit)
  • Legal help for lease, employment, or visa issues

🎯 Final Thoughts

Moving to the U.S. is exciting, but the system can be overwhelming—especially if you don’t have a credit file or a local support network. Planning ahead can save you money, time, and stress.

With the right strategies (and partners), you can hit ground running:

  • Bring the right paperwork
  • Build credit from day one with Amex or secured cards
  • Get help from experts like In2America to navigate insurance, payroll, and compliance for your business
  • Stay patient - your U.S. life will stabilize quickly with the right moves

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