Next continuing series “PREPARATION OF PLAN TO GO TO THE US“, tomorrow Now I will continue to share part 3 with the topic: WHAT DOCUMENTS DO YOU NEED TO DO IN THE FIRST WEEK IN THE US?
After search To get a temporary place to stay in the US, the most important thing you need to do is complete the necessary procedures and documents to start a new life here.
1. Buy a phone SIM and register for a network in the US
One of the first things you need after arriving in the US is to have a SIM for communication and internet access. In the US, wifi is often not as popular as in Vietnam, especially public wifi like in stores and cafes, so everyone will need to register for a mobile network when going out.
First of all, you need to find a suitable network operator.
Large and reputable carriers in the US include: T-Mobile, AT&T, or Verizon.
- T-Mobile is famous for its reasonable prices, suitable for you if you live in big cities.
- AT&T has wider coverage, especially in rural areas.
- Verizon has high quality service and strong network, but the price is usually a bit higher.
Each such network usually has many packages, you can choose the package that suits your needs. Basic packages usually include:
- Mobile data (data): Access the network on the phone.
- Unlimited calling and texting (unlimited calls and texts).
Package cost fluctuates ~ 30 – 50 USD/month, depending on the number of GB of data you need.
To buy a SIM and activate such packages, you can go directly to network stores or retail agents, the staff will assist you in registering and activating the SIM on the spot.
Besides, if you want to be more proactive, you can It is absolutely possible to buy a SIM and register for packages from Vietnam to use immediately when arriving in the US.
T-Mobile, Mint Mobile, or AT&T usually allow you to order a SIM and choose a package online from Vietnam. After placing, the SIM can be sent to your requested address in the US (or some units have SIM transfer service to Vietnam).
After successfully registering for the voice and internet wedding package on your phone, if your accommodation does not have wifi, you also need to register for additional internet service at home.
Popular carriers in the US that you can choose from:
- Comcast Xfinity: Offers affordable plans and high speeds.
- Spectrum: Service does not require long-term contract, suitable for newbies.
- AT&T/Verizon: There are additional incentives if you have used their SIM.
The cost of these carriers’ basic packages usually ranges from 30 – 70 USD/month.
2. Complete important documents and procedures
- Update address:
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- This will help you receive notices or necessary documents from school, work, or hospital
- For schools or hospitals: Please contact the administrative department via email to submit the new address, and make sure to provide the correct ZIP Code of the address.
- You need to register an account on the USCIS Change of Address page and update online here.
- Open a bank account:
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- You can go to large banks in the US such as Bank of America, Chase, or Wells Fargo.
- When going, bring the necessary documents such as:
- Passport
- US Visa
- I-94 (immigration documents, downloadable from US government website)
- Labor contract (if any)
- Proof of address in the US: Letters, utility bills, or rental contract (print a hard copy for presentation if needed).
- Apply for a social security number (SSN):
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- If you qualify ((have a work visa (like H-1B, J-1) or are doing research/study with a paid internship)), you need to apply for a social security number (SSN) to file taxes, open a credit account, or apply for social insurance.
- Here’s how to do it:
- Find the nearest Social Security Administration (SSA) office via the SSA website.
- Schedule an appointment in advance through the online system to save time.
- Bring necessary documents:
- Passport.
- Visa and I-94.
- Letter from work or school confirming the need to use SSN (if applicable).
3. Buy health insurance
Medical costs in the US are very high, a medical examination can cost hundreds – thousands of dollars, not to mention the cost of tests, procedures or risks if you have to be hospitalized. Therefore, research and buy health insurance early, as soon as your travel insurance expires, to avoid unexpectedly high medical costs.
Popular insurance options:
- For international students:
- ISO Student Health Insurance: Reasonable price, suitable for students for short-term stays.
- University Health Plan: Purchased through the school, often cheaper than purchasing on your own.
- For people who have just settled or worked in the US:
- Cigna Global or IMG: Provides flexible insurance packages, can be registered for short or long term depending on needs.
- Buy through a local carrier: Contact insurance companies in your state such as Blue Cross Blue Shield or UnitedHealthcare. These are the largest insurance companies in America.
How to register:
- Research the right insurance plan through the provider’s website or email support from school/work.
- Fill out the online application.
- Pay via credit card or bank transfer.
Hope my sharing today about these procedures will help you settle down soon and easily integrate into your new life in the US.
Wishing you a smooth and successful start!
If you want to know more about any topic about life in America, please comment and let me know. I will be happy to answer you in the next articles.
Dr. Christina Nguyen
Phoenix Medical Academy.
