The United States of America (USA) is a prominent destination for individuals worldwide, including many Indians, who are drawn to the country's thriving economy, diverse culture, and renowned educational institutions. This comprehensive article provides a step-by-step approach to successfully settling in the USA from India, addressing various aspects of the process to ensure a smooth transition.
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Preparing for the Move
Plan Your Budget
Research the living expenses: Carefully examine the cost of living in your desired city or location in the USA. This includes rent, utilities, food, transportation, and other necessities.
Arrange for funds: Determine the best way to finance your move, whether through family support, student loans, or other financial resources. Ensure you have sufficient funds to cover your expenses during the initial settlement period.
Choose an Affordable Residence
Consider the cost of living: Evaluate the housing costs in different areas and find a balance between affordability and proximity to your university or workplace.
Prioritize convenience: While seeking an affordable place to live, consider the ease of commuting and access to essential amenities, such as public transportation, shopping, and healthcare facilities.
Familiarize Yourself with the Traffic Rules
Understand the differences: Recognize that the traffic laws in the USA are generally more stringent than those in India. Even crossing a "No Crossing" sign can result in significant penalties.
Obtain prior knowledge: Although many American universities provide traffic rule guidance to new students, it is beneficial to familiarize yourself with the rules beforehand, particularly the driving direction, which differs from India.
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Adapt to the Metric System
Familiarize yourself with the units: In the USA, the measurement system differs from India, with miles, pounds, and Fahrenheit replacing kilometers, kilograms, and Celsius.
Practice the conversion: To ease the transition, it is recommended to practice converting between the metric system and the US system before your arrival so you can better understand and navigate daily activities.
Settling in the USA
Obtain the I-94 Form
Understand the importance: The I-94 form is a critical document that records your arrival and departure in the USA and serves as proof of your legal stay in the country.
Obtain the printout: Immediately after arriving in the USA, download and print the I-94 form from the official website of the Department of Homeland Security. Keep this document safe until you obtain a local state ID or driving license.
Secure an Employment Verification Letter (EVL)
An EVL is required when applying for a job at a US-based organization. If you don't have this letter, request it from your previous employer's HR department.
Research network providers
Explore the available mobile network service providers in the USA, such as Verizon, AT&T, LycaMobile, and T-Mobile, and select the one that best suits your daily usage and data needs.
Apply for a Driving Licence
Visit the DMV: The first step in obtaining a driving license is to visit your nearest Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) center and register for the driving license test.
Undergo medical examination: Before taking the driving test, you must undergo a medical examination at a nearby emergency center.
Practice and schedule the test: Once you have the learner's permit, practice the driving rules and regulations and schedule an appointment for the driving test. If you pass the test, you will be issued a driving license.
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Job Opportunities for Indian Students in the USA
High-demand sectors
The USA offers many job opportunities, particularly in fields such as engineering, healthcare, agriculture, real estate, film production, retail, and information technology, where skilled individuals are in high demand.
Part-time jobs
Indian students can work on-campus in the USA for up to 20 hours per week, providing them additional income and work experience during their studies.
Life in the USA
American Culture
Adjusting to American culture may seem challenging initially, but with familiarity, you can adapt well to the country's customs and traditions, such as independence, equality, directness, and informality.
Language
The widespread use of English in the USA makes it an attractive destination for English speakers globally. In addition to English, Spanish, Chinese, French, and German are also commonly spoken in the USA.
Religion
The USA is known for its religious diversity, with citizens practicing various faiths. Houses of worship for various religions are readily available in most American cities.
Sports
Sports are an integral part of American society, with football, baseball, basketball, and ice hockey being some of the most popular sports in the country, both for participation and as spectator events.
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Talk to an ExpertChecklist for Moving to the USA from India
Documentation and Paperwork
Passport accuracy: Ensure that all the information on your passport, including your name and surname, as well as the details of your family members, is accurate and up-to-date.
Aadhaar formalities: Complete your Aadhaar card formalities, including registering your phone number, to ensure smooth OTP (One-Time Password) access.
Bank account KYC: Verify that your bank account's KYC (Know Your Customer) details are updated and accurate.
Educational documents: Gather your educational transcripts and degree certificates from your previous institutions.
Communication and Mobile Applications
Mobile number verification: Ensure your mobile number is verified for OTP needs, such as bank account verification, Aadhaar card updates, and income tax logins.
SIM card for the USA: Obtain a SIM card that works in the USA or purchase an international roaming plan to receive OTP messages.
Mobile banking apps: Install the necessary apps before your departure, as they may need to be more readily available in the local app stores in the USA.
Visa Options for Migration to the USA
Work Visas
EB-1 visa (for priority workers): Individuals skilled in science, arts, business, technology, and education, as well as professors, researchers, and multinational managers.
EB-2 visa (for individuals with exceptional ability): Professionals holding advanced degrees or individuals skilled in science, business, and arts.
EB-3 visa (for skilled and unskilled workers): Covers many skilled and unskilled workers.
Family-Based Immigration
Petition for Alien Relative (I-130): Family members of US citizens can apply for this visa.
Affidavit of Support (I-864): This document is required to sponsor a family member for immigration.
Petition for Alien Fiancé (I-129F): Used for individuals planning to marry a US citizen.
Study Permits
F1 visa (for academic education programs): Allows full-time international students to study in the USA.
M1 visa (for vocational programs): Enables international students to enroll in vocational or technical programs in the USA.
Eligibility Criteria for a Green Card in the USA
Through Family
Immediate relative of a US citizen: Includes spouse, unmarried child under 21, and parent of a US citizen at least 21 years old.
Special Immigrant categories: Covers individuals such as religious workers, juveniles seeking protection, Afghanistan or Iraq nationals who have worked for the US government, and employees of international organizations or NATO-6.
Through Registry
If you have been living in the USA since before January 1, 1972, you may be eligible to apply for a Green Card.
Acquiring US Citizenship
Becoming a US citizen through Naturalization is outlined, including the requirements of holding a Permanent Resident Green Card for at least five years, meeting eligibility criteria, and completing the 10-step naturalization process.
Reasons to Settle in the USA
The article outlines ten compelling reasons why individuals may choose to settle in the USA, including excellent educational opportunities, superior healthcare facilities, abundant job prospects, robust economic conditions, spacious living spaces, diverse culinary culture, stunning natural landscapes, efficient transportation system, welcoming and inclusive society, and an overall better lifestyle.
