Personal experience: how to go to the USA and start life from scratch
'06.05.2019'
Source: From Russia to America
Moving to the US is still a dream for many residents of the CIS countries. In pursuit of a new standard of living, immigrants aspire to a country of individual entrepreneurship. Times have changed, and the American dream, which seemed so attainable, is only available for units. It is becoming more and more difficult to achieve success in America, because thousands of immigrants come to the United States every year. From 7 May to 30 September, the results of the Green Card Lottery will be available: how to check and what to do after a win says ForumDaily, and we, in the meantime, offer to find out how our compatriots live, after moving to the United States.
To figure out how to leave for the USA and start life from scratch, suggests Tatiana, the author of the blog “From Russia to America".
In the history of this great country there are many examples of people who started from scratch and sought the very top, opened a business, became stars. Many believe that these golden times are over and it has become much more difficult to succeed in America. Yes, I agree that times have changed, but everyone has a chance to succeed and live freely in order to afford normal housing, a car, an opportunity to go on a vacation and are not afraid of the unknown and unpredictability of tomorrow.
Personally, I think that everyone can succeed regardless of the time in which we live. The times have changed, the yard is the age of new technologies, the information age, the time of innovations, inventions and discoveries. Those who claim that in the US unemployment and lack of jobs are wrong. Jobs exist, there are not enough qualified personnel that meet the requirements of companies.
Today I want to talk about how to start life in the US from scratch.
1. Start-up capital
For the first period of time, you will need an initial amount (start-up capital), without which I would not even advise coming to the USA. Of course, you can come without a penny in your pocket and beg on the road, but such a chance, I think, attracts few people. It is better to dig a little, deny yourself something, but in America you will have the opportunity to rent a house, you will have funds to buy food and everything you need for the first time, until you find a job. As for the size of the start-up capital, the amount depends on the city and state you plan to immigrate to. I strongly recommend that you carefully study the specifics of the state, city and area that you are considering for moving, because the United States of America is like a group of diverse countries. Each state is different from each other, they have their own laws and regulations.
On the subject: A look at America from the inside: 6 things that are silent
2. Rental of property
For the first time you need to find a suitable accommodation. Upon arrival in the US, I do not recommend signing a long-term lease agreement, as a rule, for the 1 year. You can find contracts for six months or for several months. Rent in such cases is a bit more expensive, but you will not lose the amount of the deposit if you urgently move to another place if you find an attractive job in another state. In case of early termination of the lease agreement, a penalty shall be paid in accordance with the terms of the contract. You can find accommodation in the USA on the Internet. Presented a huge number of sites search for real estate, the most basic is craigslist.com.
Prices vary by location, city, area and state. The fact remains unchanged - when concluding a lease, it is necessary to show financial viability (background check). Since you cannot check your credit history, because you have only arrived in the United States, you will need to show the movement of funds in the account. When renting a property, you pay the first month's payment and the amount of the deposit, which is usually the amount of the rental property for the month. You can also use the services of a realtor who will help you find the right area - this is especially important if you are moving with a school-age child, because each school is tied to a specific area of the city. Take a good look at the schools in the city where you plan to move. Study the parents' feedback about this school, ask neighbors with children what school they go to.
3. Bank card
Immediately upon arrival in the United States, get a card of an American bank, which you can arrange at any nearby bank office. To do this, you will need an identity document and a social security number (it is obtained in the US Social Security Administration if you have a work permit, get green cards, in addition, students who come under the Work and Travel program receive it). Bank conditions may vary, so look at several banks and compare interest rates and other additional payments that may be charged.
4. cellular
You will need a cellular connection. In the US, SIM cards as such are absent. The phone is tied to a specific network operator and enter into a contract for a period of one to three years. On average, cellular communication will cost you from $ 45 to $ 120 per month. This will include unlimited calls, SMS and 3G / 4G Internet.
Some mobile operators offer prepaid phone (familiar to us SIM cards). Throw on the phone a certain balance and call. It seems that such a system seems more attractive, but over time you will realize that a minute of conversation can go up to $ 10 !!! Seeming at first glance, a cheap cellular plan will cost you a pretty penny.
5. Transport
If you are going to move to a small city where the transport system is not developed, then a car will simply be necessary. For the first time you can rent a car, but I recommend to buy it right away. The car can be searched on craigslist.com, as well as http://www.autotrader.com. There are still auctions in which you can buy a car for a penny, in 2-3 times cheaper than the market value. Only one minus - you buy a cat in a bag and do not know whether the car is on the move and what problems it has.
On the subject: How to get a driver's license in the US without a social security number
6. Job
After solving all everyday issues, start looking for a job. For the first time, do not count on high wages if you are not a specialist. Over time, you will find a more attractive job.
Who knows, maybe you decide to open your business. In the US, this is much easier to do than in Russia, because of the openness and honesty of the system, there is no need to pay bribes.
7. Who does not risk, does not drink champagne
I understand perfectly well how difficult it will be at first, because it is always difficult to start in a new place, but this is a change for the better and you should not be afraid of them. Agree, we live once, and it’s better to do and succeed than to spare the rest of your life that you didn’t even take a step towards your cherished dream. Home, home, you can always return.
American Dream
If you do not know English, then look for free courses for beginners in your city. In many US cities there are international house, which accept immigrants from different countries and help with adaptation in a new place.
I have not seen more immigrants wandering along the street and begging. For each there is a place under the sun, there are no hopeless situations. If you believe in victory and success, there will always be people who will help you and tell you the right path. Our thoughts are material, so think in the right direction! Verified by experience!
