The Newcomer Guide

The practical first steps every immigrant family figures out the hard way, collected in one place, with links to official sources. Written for every status and every language.

Your first weeks

Get a phone number and email you'll keepAlmost everything (banks, schools, jobs, doctors) uses them. A prepaid plan is fine to start.

Keep your documents safePassport, visa or I-94, birth certificates and school records. Keep originals at home and photos in a private cloud folder.

Call 211 if you need help with anythingFood, shelter, utilities and local services. Free, confidential and multilingual. 211.org

Find your communityJoin your community on USA Club. Ask anything, because someone has been exactly where you are.

IDs & numbers

Social Security number (SSN)If you are authorized to work, apply at the Social Security office. ssa.gov/number-card

ITINIf you can't get an SSN, an ITIN from the IRS lets you file taxes, and many banks accept it. irs.gov/itin

Driver license / state IDRules vary by state. In New York, a standard license is available regardless of status. dmv.ny.gov

Municipal IDSome cities, like New York City (IDNYC), offer a free photo ID to all residents.

Bank, credit & money

Open a bank accountMany banks and credit unions accept a passport plus an ITIN or SSN. Credit unions are often the friendliest for newcomers.

Build credit from zeroA secured credit card and paying it on time every month builds a score in 6–12 months. Check your reports free at annualcreditreport.com.

Sending money homeCompare fees and exchange rates. Fees hidden in the rate add up.

File taxes every yearFiling builds a record that helps with loans, leases and immigration cases. Free help: VITA.

Renting & buying a home

Renting without U.S. creditOffer a larger deposit, a co-signer, bank statements or an employer letter. Never pay a deposit before seeing the place and signing a lease.

Know your rightsLandlords can't refuse you because of your national origin. Fair housing

Buying your first homeGreen-card holders can get regular mortgages, and some lenders offer ITIN mortgages. A free HUD-approved housing counselor can walk you through it. Find one, or get free advice from a USA Club agent.

Work with someone who speaks your languageFind realtors, lenders and attorneys from your community in Pros.

Health

Community health centersFees are based on income, and they serve everyone. Find one near you

Emergency roomsBy law, ERs must treat emergencies regardless of ability to pay or status.

InsuranceSee the options for immigrant families at healthcare.gov/immigrants.

School & English

Every child can go to public schoolChildren have the right to free public K–12 education regardless of immigration status. Schools may not ask about status.

Free English classesPublic libraries and community colleges offer free or cheap ESL classes. Ask at your local library.

Your degree from homeCredential evaluation services can translate your diploma into its U.S. equivalent for jobs and school.

Work & business

Your rights at workMinimum wage, overtime and safety laws protect every worker. Unpaid wages? Department of Labor

Start a businessFree plans, mentors and loans through the SBA. sba.gov

NetworkPost in your community's Jobs board, and list yourself as a Pro if you offer a service.

Immigration & citizenship

Use only real legal helpOnly a licensed attorney or a DOJ-accredited representative can give immigration advice. A "notario" or "consultant" cannot. Find accredited help

Forms are freeDownload official forms only from uscis.gov. Check your case status there too.

Studying for citizenshipFree civics and English test practice: USCIS study materials

Avoiding scams

Government agencies don't call demanding moneyUSCIS, the IRS and police will never ask for payment in gift cards, wire transfers or crypto.

Notario fraudPeople who promise "guaranteed" papers or a "special connection" are lying. Learn the signs

Rental and job scamsNever pay before seeing an apartment or for a "job placement" fee. If it feels wrong, ask your community first.

This guide is general information, not legal advice. Rules change and vary by state. Always confirm with the official source.