First 30 Days in the US
Your first 30 days in the US are a dependency chain: no SSN makes bank accounts harder, no proof of address blocks the driver's license. This checklist is ordered by dependency — just follow it.
Activate a US phone number (day one)
Everything that follows needs a US number for verification codes. Start with a prepaid SIM (Mint, T-Mobile Prepaid) or an eSIM, and switch to a regular plan once you're settled.
💲 $15–40/mo⏱ Same day
Apply for a Social Security Number (week 1)
Bring your passport, visa/green card, and I-94 (downloadable online) to the nearest Social Security office. New green card holders who checked the SSN box at immigration get the card mailed automatically. Your SSN underpins credit, taxes, and work — the earlier the better.
💲 Free⏱ Card arrives in 2–4 weeks🔗 SSA application instructions
Open a bank account (weeks 1–2)
Big banks (Chase, Bank of America) have many branches and are newcomer-friendly; some open accounts with just a passport + visa (add your SSN later). Open both Checking (daily use) and Savings, and check the monthly-fee waiver conditions.
💲 Free (watch fee waivers)⏱ Done on the spot
Get proof of address
A lease, utility/internet bill, or bank statement all work. You'll need it for the driver's license, library card, and school registration — keep at least two paper copies.
⏱ Comes with renting
Apply for your first credit card (weeks 2–4)
Your credit score drives the cost of renting, car loans, and mortgages — start building early. With no credit history, begin with a secured card (e.g. Discover It Secured) or a student card, pay in full and on time, and upgrade in 6–12 months.
💲 Secured deposit from $200 (refundable)
Get or transfer a driver's license (month 1)
Most states let you drive on a foreign license briefly (30–90 days), but residents must get a state license. Pass the written knowledge test first (many states offer multiple languages), then book the road test.
💲 $30–90 (varies by state)⏱ Written test results are instant🔗 PassPrep free DMV practice tests (by state)
Get health insurance (month 1 — don't put this off)
One uninsured ER visit can cost thousands. With an employer, enroll in the company plan (usually within 30 days of starting); otherwise use Healthcare.gov or your state exchange — low income may qualify for Medicaid.
💲 Depends on income and state🔗 Healthcare.gov
Understand your tax obligations
If you earn income in the US you must file taxes (by April 15 for the prior year). First use a tool to determine whether you're a resident (RA) or nonresident (NRA) — the forms are completely different.
Enroll kids in school (if applicable)
Public schools enroll by school district for free. You'll need proof of address, vaccination records (can be completed in the US), and a birth certificate. Contact the school district office directly.
💲 Public school is free
Scan and back up key documents
Passport, visa, I-94, green card/EAD, SSN card, lease — scan everything to the cloud. Re-download and check your I-94 after every entry; report errors to CBP promptly.