The Boring Things You Have to Do When You Move to the U.S.

Moving to the U.S. was a dream come true, but there are definitely some unglamorous steps I had to take to settle in. From paperwork to health insurance, here’s a look at the surprising details I had to navigate—plus a few quirks that took me by surprise along the way.

Step 1: Get Your Social Security Number (SSN)

This is the first box to tick. Your Social Security Number (SSN) is essential because it opens up so many doors, from setting up a bank account to getting a credit card. Without it, many systems and services in the U.S. are off-limits.

Getting my SSN took longer than expected, which made everything feel like it was on hold. But once it came through, things moved quickly. It’s funny how a single number can have such a big impact on your ability to start a life here.

Step 2: Open a Bank Account and Get Your First Credit Card

With an SSN, I could finally set up a U.S. bank account. This part wasn’t as simple as I expected—many banks needed a U.S. address and other verifications that were tricky to provide while I was still settling in. After some searching, though, I found a bank that was easier to work with for new arrivals.

Then came the credit card process, which was different from what I was used to. I had to start with a secured credit card, which felt like a bit of a hassle. I paid a $500 deposit, and that was essentially my “credit line.” The card issuer held onto the $500 as collateral to secure themselves in case I missed payments. The whole setup felt a bit silly, but it’s a way to build a credit history from scratch. After a few months, I was able to apply for a real credit card and ended up with the Chase Sapphire, which has some fantastic sign-up bonuses and perks.

Step 3: Enroll in Healthcare

The healthcare system in the U.S. is honestly one of the most confusing parts of moving here. If you’re coming from Europe, where health insurance is often straightforward, it’s a shock. In the U.S., healthcare isn’t automatic, and options vary widely depending on your state, your job, and whether you’re eligible for specific programs.

I had to spend a lot of time comparing plans, understanding different premiums, deductibles, and networks. The entire process can feel overwhelming and time-consuming. It’s a world of its own, and it took me a while to navigate it. In the end, I got coverage, but it was a real reminder of how much simpler healthcare is in many European countries.

Step 4: Build Your Credit and Learn How It Works

Credit scores are a big deal in the U.S., and if you’re not familiar with the system, it can be confusing. Here, your credit score affects everything—getting a car loan, renting an apartment, even job applications in some cases.

The path to a good credit score starts small. With my secured card, I used it regularly and made sure to pay it off every month. After a few months of responsible use, I was approved for the Chase Sapphire, which brought some amazing benefits like cashback and travel points. Using credit cards in the U.S. can actually be rewarding, but the interest rates are high, so you have to stay disciplined and avoid overspending.

Step 5: Getting Set with a U.S. Driver’s License, Car, and the Other Basics

One of the first practical things I had to tackle was getting a U.S. driver’s license. Even though you can technically drive with an international license for a while, a U.S. one is essential if you’re here long-term. Luckily, the process wasn’t as complicated as I’d expected—just a written test, a road test, and a fair amount of patience for the DMV lines. Each state has its own rules, so check your local requirements to stay compliant.

Finding a Car and Navigating Insurance

Once I had my license, I started hunting for a car, which turned out to be both necessary and complicated in a city like Los Angeles. The used car market is huge, and there are so many options, from online platforms to dealerships. After some searching, I found a good deal, but that’s when I encountered the next hurdle: car insurance. In the U.S., it’s mandatory, and your premium can depend on everything from your driving record to your credit score. I was shocked at first because rates were far higher than what I’d experienced in Europe.

After comparing a few different providers, I finally found one that offered the coverage I needed without breaking the bank. A small tip: many insurers offer discounts if you bundle car insurance with renter’s insurance, or if you take a safe driving course. It’s worth asking for all the options.

The Little Details That Keep Life Running Smoothly

As I navigated setting up my life here, there were also a lot of small but essential things to check off. For instance, getting a U.S. phone plan wasn’t as simple as swapping out a SIM card. Monthly plans are common here, and I found that data was pricier than expected, so I did a bit of research to find a provider with the best coverage and cost balance.

Then there were other little things—setting up a mailing address, updating subscriptions, figuring out grocery shopping, even learning about public transport. Each little piece brought me closer to feeling settled. It sounds minor, but these basics all add up to make life feel smoother.

Conclusion: Settling into the Practical Side of Life in the U.S.

These initial steps might sound boring, but they’re critical to building a stable life in the U.S. The quirks and extra paperwork might feel strange at first, but each step makes things run a little smoother.

If you’re making the move or already in the process, know that it takes time. Tackle these “boring” steps early so you can focus on the more exciting parts of life in the U.S. – the new experiences, opportunities, and all the adventures that come with it!