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Residency Guide to the United States

Looking for guidance on obtaining residency in the United States? Discover the steps involved and read advice from expats, nomads, and others already in the United States.
|-Residency Guide to the United States

Obtaining a residency visa in the United States is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in the United States gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

  • Research the different types of residency status available in the United States, such as permanent residency, temporary residency, and student visas.
  • Gather the necessary documents to apply for residency status, such as a valid passport, birth certificate, and proof of financial stability.
  • Complete the appropriate application forms for the type of residency status you are applying for.
  • Submit the application forms and documents to the appropriate government agency.
  • Pay the applicable fees for the application.
  • Attend an interview with a representative from the government agency.
  • Wait for the government agency to process your application and make a decision.
  • Apply for a Social Security Number (SSN) if you are approved for residency status:
    • Gather the necessary documents to apply for an SSN, such as your residency status documents.
    • Complete the SSN application form.
    • Submit the application form and documents to the Social Security Administration.
    • Attend an interview with a representative from the Social Security Administration.
    • Wait for the Social Security Administration to process your application and make a decision.
  • Apply for a Tax Identification Number (TIN) if you are approved for residency status:
    • Gather the necessary documents to apply for a TIN, such as your residency status documents.
    • Complete the TIN application form.
    • Submit the application form and documents to the Internal Revenue Service.
    • Wait for the Internal Revenue Service to process your application and make a decision.

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in United States?

“If you are planning to stay in the United States for a while, you will likely need either a Green Card or a valid visa. To apply for either document, you will generally need to provide a valid passport, proof of financial stability, and evidence of your planned activities in the United States. Depending on your situation, you may also need to provide other documents such as letters of invitation, evidence of employment, proof of educational records, or a criminal background check. Additionally, you may also be asked to provide copies of your biometric information, health records, and/or family ties,” said one expat living in United States.

“PR is a US territory, so Americans only need to arrive. Residency and Visas for other nationalities have the same requirements as the USA,” commented one expat living in Patillas, US.

“US citizens have no visa requirements. Others need passports, tourist visas or work visas,” mentioned one expat living in US.

“In order to enter the United States, non-U.S. citizens must obtain a valid visa from a U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Depending on your nationality and purpose of travel, the type of visa you require and the length of validity may vary. You must apply for a visa in advance of your arrival in the U.S. and must provide certain documents, such as a passport, photograph, and proof of financial support, that accompany the visa application. In order to stay in the United States for a longer period of time, it may be necessary to apply for residency. Generally, potential residents have to petition the U.S. government with an application and supporting documents, such as marriage and birth certificates, financial records and bank statements, to prove the validity of their relationship and/or dependents. Depending on the relationship, further evidence jointly signed documents, photos, or affidavits from third-party witnesses may be required. Once the application is submitted, generally, a U.S. citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) officer will review the evidence and will determine, in some cases after an interview, whether the applicant is eligible for residency,” said an expat in the United States.

Joshua WoodJoshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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