Renting in the US costs more than the listing suggests: besides the monthly rent, you usually need to pay the first and last month plus a Security deposit. Also, within 10 days of moving you must report your address change to immigration through form AR-11, or it may be treated as a violation of your visa or immigration status.

Renting an apartment: the amount due at signing

The rent price in the listing isn’t the whole amount you’ll end up paying. When signing the lease, landlords usually require the first month, the last month, and a so-called Security deposit. The deposit goes to the owner in case of property damage or other harm. In the example described, an apartment renting for $3,000 a month ends up costing $9,000 at signing. The lease is typically for twelve months.

Changing address and the duty to report it

If you’re on a visa or hold resident status, you must report your change of address to immigration within 10 days of moving. This can be done through the online form AR-11. It’s important so you don’t miss official correspondence. Failing to do so is treated as a violation of your visa or immigration status and can turn into a serious problem.

Healthcare: insurance and paying cash

Insurance is necessary even if it’s expensive: the cost of emergency medical care without it can be very high. That said, for a simple doctor’s visit or a minor procedure, it’s worth asking in advance how much it would cost paying cash or by card without using insurance. This option often turns out cheaper, but it has nuances, so it’s worth clarifying ahead of time.

Bank accounts outside the US and reporting

In the US you can hold any amount in your accounts, there are no limits on that. Foreign accounts are a different matter: if any one of them holds more than $10,000, that account must be reported, regardless of whether you’re a citizen, a resident, or a tax resident. Failing to do so, especially willfully, can lead to large fines and may also result in losing your status or green card.

Credit history and your first credit card

In the US, your credit score matters a great deal. It’s recommended to start building your history right away: pay bills, credit cards, medical expenses, mortgages, and other obligations on time. If a bank won’t issue a regular card due to lack of credit history, you can apply for a secured credit card, meaning a card backed by a deposit. For example, the bank opens a credit line for the $2,000 you deposited; regularly using and paying off such a card gradually builds your history, and over time better terms for loans and mortgages become available.

Neighbors, associations, and property rules

A conflict with neighbors or with an association overseeing the property can turn into a serious problem. Loud music, work in the backyard, and throwing things off or onto a balcony are not allowed. You need to follow the rules of the HOA (Home Owners Association), which manages the building, or of the management company. Failing to follow these rules can lead to major trouble.

Entrance to a restaurant in the center of an American city: guests at terrace tables, a waiter carrying a tray

Tipping at restaurants

Waiters in the US earn mostly from tips. Usually 15–20% of the bill is left. If you don’t have that amount, it’s better to order food for delivery or cook at home. A small amount for coffee or another service is also appropriate and is seen as a sign of normal courtesy.

Driver’s license and the duration of your status

Licenses are often issued for the duration of your status, such as a tourist, student, or work visa. If your status is extended or changed but your license isn’t updated, this can become a serious problem, especially if a police officer notices the discrepancy. This situation can lead to the cancellation of your visa or status. When changing status, it’s worth checking your driving documents in advance as well.

Networking as a tool for status and business

Networking events, where people of different professions meet, exchange contacts, and find partners and investors, are useful for residents, citizens, and visa holders. For example, on an O-1 visa you might find someone to give you a recommendation, while business owners on L-1 or E-2 visas might find investment and partners. The main goal at such an event is not just to talk about yourself, but to connect other people who are useful to each other, without expecting a reward. Those are the connections that are remembered best.