First Steps in the U.S.

The Social Security Number is one of the first documents you need to obtain in the United States. Without it, you cannot legally work, open a bank account, or build a credit history.

How to Apply

Visit your nearest Social Security Administration (SSA) office with your passport, visa, and Form I-94. Complete Form SS-5. Your card will be mailed to you within 2–4 weeks.

Who Is Eligible

• Holders of work visas (H-1B, L-1, O-1, etc.)
• Green card holders
• Refugees and asylees
• Spouses of U.S. citizens and permanent residents

A bank account is essential for everyday life in the United States. Most landlords, employers, and service providers require non-cash payments.

What You Need to Open an Account

• Passport (foreign passports are accepted)
• SSN or ITIN
• Proof of address (utility bill, lease agreement)
• Initial deposit (typically $25–$100)

Recommended Banks for Immigrants

Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo have branches nationwide and offer Spanish-language services. For those just starting to build a credit history, secured credit cards are a great option.

Rent is one of the largest expenses you will face. Prices can vary significantly depending on the state and city.

Where to Search

• Zillow and Apartments.com — the largest listing platforms
• Craigslist — for budget options (beware of scams)
• Facebook Marketplace — rooms and subleases
• Russian-speaking groups on Telegram and Facebook

What You Need to Rent

Landlords typically check your credit history, income (minimum 3x the monthly rent), and references. New immigrants without a credit history may be required to pay a larger security deposit or provide a co-signer.

In most states, a driver's license serves as the primary form of identification. The process for obtaining one varies by state.

General Process

1. Visit your state's DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles)
2. Pass the written test (knowledge exam) — available in Russian in many states
3. Obtain your learner's permit
4. Pass the road test (driving exam)
5. Receive your full driver's license

Required Documents

• Passport and visa
• SSN (or a denial letter from the SSA)
• Two proofs of address
• Form I-94 or I-20

Medical care in the United States is paid and expensive. Without insurance, even a routine doctor's visit can cost hundreds of dollars.

Coverage Options

• Through your employer — the most common and cost-effective option
• Healthcare.gov (Marketplace) — the federal exchange, with subsidies based on income
• Medicaid — free coverage for low-income individuals (eligibility criteria vary by state)
• Private plans — for those who do not qualify under other categories

Open Enrollment

The Open Enrollment period generally runs from November 1 through January 15. However, certain "qualifying life events" — such as moving, losing prior coverage, or having a baby — allow you to enroll outside of this window.

Everyone in the United States who earns income is required to file a tax return — even if you do not yet have a SSN.

ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number)

If you are not eligible for a SSN but are required to pay taxes, file Form W-7 with the IRS to obtain an ITIN. This is necessary for filing your tax return and receiving any tax refunds.

Key Deadlines

• April 15 — tax return filing deadline
• October 15 — extended deadline (when a filing extension is requested)

For your first tax return, it is strongly recommended that you work with a tax professional (CPA) who is familiar with the specifics of immigration-related taxation.