Just arrived in the U.S.? Start here.
Clear, step-by-step instructions for the things every new immigrant has to deal with — and direct links to the official government sites where you actually get them done.
What do you need to do?
Pick a topic. Every guide lists the documents you need, the steps in order, and the official website or office to go to.
- Your first weekThe handful of things to do immediately after you land: your I-94 record, documents to keep safe, a phone number, and a mailing address.3 guides
- Immigration statusCreate a USCIS account, check your case status, report an address change, and understand your work authorization.4 guides
- Social Security & IDApply for a Social Security number or an ITIN, and get a state ID card if you do not drive.4 guides
- Banking & creditOpen a bank account (with or without an SSN), get your first credit card, and start building a U.S. credit history.3 guides
- Driving & vehiclesGet a driver's license, pass the written and road tests, register a car, and buy the insurance your state requires.5 guides
- Tickets & courtsLook up and pay a traffic or parking ticket, deal with a red-light camera notice, take traffic school, or contest a citation.4 guides
- Housing & utilitiesRent an apartment, understand your lease and deposit, know your tenant rights, and set up electricity, gas and internet.4 guides
- Health careGet health insurance, find a low-cost community clinic, understand emergency care and medical bills, and get vaccinations.6 guides
- TaxesFind out whether you must file, understand W-2 and 1099 forms, file with an ITIN, and get free filing help.4 guides
- Work & employmentForm I-9, employment authorization, minimum wage, paychecks, and what to do if an employer breaks the law.4 guides
- School & learningEnroll your children in public school, find free English classes, and start at a community college.4 guides
- Benefits & emergenciesFood assistance, help for mothers and young children, what 911 is for, and where to get free legal help.4 guides
How to use this site
We only link to official .gov, court and state agency sources, and we show the date each link was last checked. Rules change often — always confirm details on the official site before you pay a fee or file a form.