Your first 30 days in the U.S.: a newcomer checklist

Published October 26, 2026

The first weeks in a new country are busy. This checklist puts the important tasks in a sensible order, so the paperwork that matters later is done right from the start.

Week 1

• Download your I-94 from CBP and check every detail. See what the I-94 is.
• Make copies of your passport, visa, I-94 and other documents. Keep originals somewhere safe.
• Get a U.S. phone number (SIM or eSIM). Banks, employers and schools will ask for one.
• Students: check in with your school’s international office (DSO) as instructed.

Weeks 2 and 3

• Social Security number: if you can work and your card did not arrive by mail, apply with SSA. If you cannot get one, see SSN or ITIN.
• Open a bank account. Bring your passport, a second ID or proof of address, and your SSN or ITIN if you have one. Some banks accept a passport alone.
• Health insurance: through a job, a school plan, or HealthCare.gov if you qualify. Medical care without insurance can be very expensive.

By the end of the month

• Address: most noncitizens must report a move to USCIS within 10 days. See how to report it.
• State ID or driver’s license from your state’s motor vehicle agency. For domestic flights you need a REAL ID-compliant license or another accepted ID, such as your passport.
• Selective Service: men aged 18 to 25 with a green card must register. See who must register.
• Track your dates: add every expiry date to the document expiration dashboard.

Coming up later

• Taxes: the first U.S. tax return is due the following spring. See taxes for F-1 students or our tax tools.
• Credit history: a secured credit card used carefully is a common way to start one.

Need help organizing your documents?

One Path Finder can help you gather and organize documents where permitted by law. We are not a law firm and can’t tell you what applies to your case. Contact us to start a conversation. For legal advice, ask us for a referral to our partner law firm.