10 Things You Should Do Right After Arriving in the U.S.

The first few weeks after arriving in the U.S. can feel completely overwhelming—unpacking boxes, figuring out the neighborhood, and trying to get things done without a driver's license or bank account. The key is knowing what to tackle first, because the order genuinely matters. Here are 10 essential steps, ranked by priority.

Week One: Don't Skip These

• 1. Verify your I-94 record: Your admission record is automatically generated, but errors happen. Check it immediately at cbp.dhs.gov/i94 and confirm your visa class and authorized stay period. Print a copy and keep it with your passport.
• 2. Lock down a mailing address: Every document, account, and registration you apply for will ask for a U.S. address. Even a short-term rental or a relative's address works—just make sure you can receive mail there.
• 3. Get a local phone number: You don't need an SSN to activate a prepaid plan. T-Mobile, AT&T, and Mint Mobile all offer no-contract plans starting around $15–$40/month. A U.S. number is required for almost everything that follows—bank accounts, DMV appointments, and more.

Within the First Month: Core Admin Tasks

• 4. Open a bank account: Chase and Bank of America will often open accounts with just a passport, visa, and proof of address—no SSN required at many branches. Korean-American banks like Hanmi Bank and PCB Bank offer Korean-language service and tend to have a smoother process for new arrivals. Always ask about monthly fee waivers.
• 5. Apply for an SSN or ITIN: If you're on a work visa (H, L, O, etc.) or have a green card, visit your nearest Social Security Administration office to apply for an SSN. F-1 students without work authorization aren't eligible for an SSN, but can apply for an ITIN through the IRS for tax purposes.
• 6. Get your driver's license: Most states require you to obtain a local license within 30–60 days of establishing residency. Many states—including California, New York, and Texas—offer the written test in Korean. Book your DMV appointment online in advance; walk-ins often mean a 3–4 hour wait.
• 7. Get health insurance: If your employer doesn't provide coverage, explore options at healthcare.gov or your state's marketplace. Depending on your income, you may qualify for Medicaid. One ER visit without insurance can cost thousands of dollars—this is not something to put off.

Building Your Foundation

• 8. Enroll your kids in school: Public schools are assigned by school district based on your home address. You'll typically need proof of residency, immunization records, and previous school transcripts. Korean documents may require certified translation.
• 9. Start building credit: Your U.S. credit history starts at zero. Once you have an SSN, apply for a secured credit card (Discover it Secured or Capital One Secured are solid starter options, with deposits around $200–$500). Use it for small purchases and pay it off monthly.
• 10. Plug into the Korean-American community: Local KakaoTalk open chats, Korean community centers, and Korean churches are more than social spaces—they're real-time hubs for housing leads, job referrals, school tips, and everything in between. Don't try to figure everything out alone.

These steps are interdependent—you need a phone number before you can open a bank account, and an address before you can visit the DMV. Work through them in order, and your first month in the U.S. will be far less stressful than it needs to be.