Relocation
Moving to the USA: The Complete Relocation Checklist
8 min read · Updated July 11, 2026
The first ninety days in America decide how smooth your next five years feel. This checklist sequences everything — from documents to credit history — in the order that actually works.
Before you fly
Documents: passport validity 6+ months, visa stamping, I-20/offer letter/petition approval as applicable, original degree certificates and transcripts, marriage certificate if relocating with a spouse, vaccination records, and international driving permit.
Money: carry some US dollars for the first week, notify your Indian bank of travel, and check whether your bank offers a US NRI-linked account. Get insurance that covers the gap until employer coverage begins.
Phone: an eSIM or international roaming for arrival day, so you can call, navigate and receive OTPs the moment you land.
Week 1 — identity foundations
Apply for a Social Security Number (SSN) as soon as your status allows — nearly everything else (banking, credit, payroll, leases) is easier with it.
Open a bank account: many national banks will open accounts with a passport and visa documents even before your SSN arrives.
Get a US SIM/plan, and save digital + physical copies of every document you used at the port of entry, including your I-94 record (download it from the CBP website).
Month 1 — home, transport, credit
Housing: expect first month + security deposit; without US credit history, offer additional deposit or use rental-history services many complexes accept.
Start credit history immediately — a secured credit card or a card designed for newcomers. Pay in full monthly; your future mortgage rate is being written now.
Driving: rules vary by state — most allow driving on a valid foreign license briefly, but get your state license early; it doubles as your daily ID.
Months 2–3 — settle properly
Health: choose an in-network primary-care doctor and understand your deductible before you need urgent care.
School enrollment (if with children): districts enroll by address; carry immunization records and prior transcripts.
Taxes: note your residency status for the tax year and any foreign-account reporting obligations (see our NRI tax guide).