Not only does the U.S. lead in economy and quality of life, but it is also a place with a diverse community that opens up many new opportunities. However, to fully take advantage of these opportunities, you must understand key information about living in the U.S. In this article, Thinksmart Insurance will share insights and 18 things you need to know when settling in the U.S.
1. Types of Visas and the U.S. Immigrant Visa Interview Process
Thinksmart Insurance has two detailed articles on the types of U.S. immigrant visas and the U.S. immigrant visa interview process. You can read them by clicking on the links below:
2. Choosing Safe and Affordable Flights to the U.S.
How to choose a flight:
- Selecting the route: There are direct flights from Vietnam to the U.S., such as from Ho Chi Minh City to San Francisco or from Hanoi to San Francisco. For other flights, you may have to transit through one or two stops.
- Flight duration: A direct flight takes about 14 hours. If transiting, the duration can extend to 18 – 20 hours or more, especially with long layovers or bad weather conditions.
- Note: Book early for the best prices and prepare mentally for the long flight.
Baggage regulations:
- Checked baggage: Up to 2 pieces, each not exceeding 23 kg. The total weight should not exceed 46 kg, and the total dimensions should not exceed 158 cm.
- Carry-on baggage: Should not exceed 7 kg with total dimensions not exceeding 115 cm.
- Prohibited items: Sharp objects like knives, scissors, lighters; liquids (water, milk, perfume) must be under 100 ml and stored in a transparent plastic bag; fresh fruits, vegetables, processed meat products, and powdered medicines are not allowed.
- Cash: There is no limit on the amount of cash you can carry, but if it exceeds 10,000 USD, it must be declared to customs to avoid complications.
3. Finances and Banking
Managing finances is a crucial aspect when preparing to move to the U.S.:
- Opening a bank account: As soon as you arrive in the U.S., you should open an account at a local bank. Having a U.S. bank account helps you easily manage your finances, receive salaries, and pay for daily expenses.
- Preparing cash and international accounts: To facilitate payments and expenses in the initial period, prepare a sufficient amount of cash. Also, maintaining an international account can help you easily transfer funds and manage finances from your home country.
4. Housing and Living Locations
Finding a suitable place to live is a key step to settling in the U.S.:
- Searching for housing: Research thoroughly the areas and neighborhoods in the city where you plan to live to choose a location that meets your needs and budget. Some areas popular with the Vietnamese community may be good choices, helping you integrate more easily and feel closer to your home culture.
- Popular areas: Large cities like Los Angeles, Houston, and San Jose have large Vietnamese communities and many amenities that cater to the needs of new immigrants.
5. Average Living Costs
Planning finances: Identify your monthly expenses and compare prices on websites to create a clear financial plan.
Advice: Keep receipts and be aware of consumer protection laws to return items if needed.
6. How to Find Jobs When Settling in the U.S.
Finding a suitable job in the U.S. can be challenging, but it’s not impossible:
- Use reputable job search websites: LinkedIn, Indeed, and Glassdoor are popular job search platforms.
- Prepare a professional CV and profile: Ensure that your resume is clear, complete, and accurately reflects your skills and experience.
- Networking: Join professional groups, workshops, and related events to expand your connections.
- Currently, most Vietnamese immigrants in the U.S. work in nail salons and factories, with an average income of $50,000 – $100,000 per year. Only a few manage to secure good jobs (depending on education and skill levels).
7. Education in the U.S.
- Registering your children for school: Researching and choosing the right school for your children is important. Contact local schools for more information about the admission process and requirements.
- Free education: Children can attend school for free from grades 1 through 12.
- Advice: Explore local schools and educational support programs to choose the right environment for your children.
8. Healthcare Costs
In the U.S., you won’t find small independent pharmacies. Instead, all health-related issues must be addressed at medical facilities or hospitals. In some cases, appointments must be made well in advance.
- Healthcare costs: Healthcare services in the U.S. are not entirely free. Services like eye care, dental care, and some surgeries require payment.
- Health insurance: You need a health insurance card to cover medical expenses. New immigrants must wait about three months to receive their cards. Health insurance is essential to ensure your health and minimize medical costs. Explore health insurance packages in the U.S. and choose one that suits your needs and budget.
9. Cultural Differences
When settling in the U.S., you will experience many cultural differences:
- Behavior and communication: U.S. culture tends to emphasize individuality and freedom. This can be different from traditional Vietnamese culture, which places more importance on community and family. Be open and flexible in adapting to American communication and behavior styles.
- Adjusting daily habits: You may need to adjust your lifestyle and eating habits to fit the local way of life and culture. American food may be different from traditional Vietnamese dishes, but you can still find many Vietnamese restaurants and grocery stores to maintain your culinary preferences.
10. Transportation in the U.S.
In the U.S., you can travel by bus, subway, taxi, bicycle, or car. If you are new, you may start by using a bicycle or bus before obtaining a driver’s license. The time to get a driver’s license can take about a year, including both the theoretical and practical exams.
- Note: Unlike in Vietnam, cars are the primary mode of transportation in the U.S., with motorcycles being quite rare.
11. Tax Obligations – A Must-Know When Settling in the U.S.
Managing taxes is an important part of settling in the U.S.:
- Tax calculation and filing: You need to understand the tax regulations in the U.S. and how to file your taxes annually. Incorrect tax filing can lead to legal issues, so make sure you comply with the rules.
- Deductions and tax benefits: Learn about tax deductions and benefits that you may qualify for. This can help you reduce tax costs and optimize your financial situation.
Read more: 8 Types of Taxes in the US That Vietnamese Immigrants Need to Know!
12. Don’t Overlook Advice from Long-term Residents in the U.S.
Insights from those who have successfully settled in the U.S. can provide you with valuable lessons:
- Challenges and How to Overcome Them: You may face many challenges when you first arrive in the U.S., such as finding housing, securing a job, and adapting to a new culture. Learn from the experiences of those who have been through this and discover solutions to overcome these obstacles.
- Success Stories: Learning about successful cases of settlement can inspire and motivate you. These stories demonstrate that with preparation and determination, you can successfully build a new life in the U.S.
- Things to Avoid: To prevent failure, pay attention to common mistakes made by new settlers, such as not thoroughly understanding legal processes, not preparing sufficient finances, or not familiarizing yourself with local support services.
- Advice and Tips: Advice from long-term U.S. residents can help you better prepare and avoid common pitfalls. They can provide information on services, cost-saving tips, and ways to acclimate to your new environment.
13. Community Services
Connecting with the local community and support organizations can help you feel more at ease when settling in the U.S.:
- Vietnamese Community: Searching for and connecting with Vietnamese community organizations can help you find support, make friends, and integrate more smoothly. These organizations often host events and community activities that help you feel more connected to your roots.
- Community Centers: Besides the Vietnamese community, you should also learn about local community centers that offer various support services, such as English classes, legal counseling, and settlement assistance programs.
14. Joining Communities and Support Organizations
- Explore Support Organizations: Many community and nonprofit organizations in the U.S. assist immigrants, help with integration, and address daily life challenges.
- Advice: Connect with Vietnamese communities in the U.S. or immigrant support groups for quick guidance and assistance.
15. Labor Regulations and Rights
To ensure your rights when working in the U.S., you need to be well-versed in the legal regulations:
- Employee Rights: The U.S. has strict regulations regarding employee rights, including work hours, minimum wage, and other benefits. Familiarize yourself with these rights to protect your interests.
- Regulations on Work Hours and Leave: Understanding the regulations on work hours and leave can help you manage your work and rest time more effectively.
16. Having a Retirement Account is Essential
Unlike the family culture in Vietnam, where children are expected to care for their parents, life in the U.S. emphasizes independence and privacy. Visits to parents become periodic check-ins. Therefore, if you decide to settle in the U.S., preparing a retirement savings account is a must.
- If you work for a company, you might consider retirement programs like 401(k). However, these programs often require you to work for a certain number of years and do not allow early withdrawals for urgent needs.
- Thinksmart Insurance suggests some safe and profitable savings programs with more flexible contribution periods for you to consider: IUL Secrets, Max Funded IUL, and Kaizen.
17. Life Insurance is Not Uncommon
In the U.S., 1 in 2 families participates in life insurance. Due to the country’s relative freedom including the ability to purchase guns in some states—the risk of encountering danger is much higher than in Vietnam.
Additionally, Americans are highly aware of the importance of life insurance (whether it’s Term Life, Whole Life, or IUL), especially since these products can also serve as retirement investments and are tax-exempt.
18. Resources and Support for Living in the U.S.
Utilizing available resources and support can help you better prepare for settling:
- Websites and Support Organizations: Get comprehensive information on settling in the U.S. from websites/PDF Guides for newcomers.
- Books and Useful Materials: The book “America from A to Z” by Hieu Minh, published by the Vietnam Women’s Publishing House, is highly recommended.
Conclusion
Settling in the U.S. is a significant step that requires thorough preparation. By understanding the settlement process, preparing financially, learning about the lifestyle and culture in the U.S., and gaining insights from real experiences, you will find it easier to build a successful new life in America. Be well-prepared and ready for the new opportunities that the U.S. offers!
Above, Thinksmart Insurance has provided comprehensive information on 18 things to know when settling in the U.S. If you have any questions, please call us at (678) 722 3447, message us on Messenger, or send an email to Support@Thinksmartinsurance.com for free consultation and 24/7 support.
