Immigration to United States

Living and working in United States

statue of liberty, USA
statue of liberty, USA – Image by Maurice LE BAIL from Pixabay

The United States of America (USA or U.S.A), commonly known as the United States (US or U.S.) or America, is a country located in North America with 50 states covering a vast area in the Pacific Ocean. States like Alaska and Hawaii are also a part of America. The population of America is over 341million as of June 2024. Major cities on the Atlantic Coast include Washington D.C., the capital and New York, a global finance and culture center. Other brimming metropolis are Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Chicago, Miami and Boston. Chicago is known for its impressive skyline and architect. The world-famous filmmaking hub, Hollywood is in Los Angeles. The United States of America is the world’s most dominant economic and military power. Although America ranks 1st among the top 10 GDP countries in 2024, with 20 trillion dollars, it still shows mixed signals of growth and challenges.

The USA has a diverse job market being a hub of innovation, technology, finance, healthcare and entertainment, opening career opportunities for skilled workers. Most of the immigrants arе attractеd by thе prospеct of bеttеr еconomic prospеcts and highеr wagеs. Many immigrants comе to USA to pursuе highеr еducation. U.S.A is homе to the world’s top-ranking universities. Mеxicans rеprеsеnts thе largеst group of immigrants in thе Unitеd Statеs. Immigrants from Latin Amеrica, India, China, and othеr Asian countriеs arе on thе risе. Center for Immigration Studies reports that there are 51.6 million foreign born rеsidеnts in thе Unitеd Statеs as of March 2024.

The Following Factors Speak For An Immigration To The United States

  • Very good Entrepreneurship
  • Very good Cultural Influence
  • Good Heritage
  • Best Economic Strength
  • Good Quality of Life
  • Best for Education

Traveling information

There are no travel restrictions to the US due to Covid-19 for the year 2024. Any international traveller must have a U.S.Visa to enter the United States, unless you are eligible for a visa-free travel. Travel to the US without a Visa depends on your nationality and the purpose of travel under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Citizens who qualify for a visa free travel must have a ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization). Check the list of countries and the requirements for VWP on the link: travel.state.gov

Nationals of all countries are welcomed in the USA for tourism, short visits visiting family and friends and also for medical treatments on Visas. Citizens of Canada and Bermuda do not need non-immigrant visas for tourism purpose. For more travel advice to the US, please visit travel.state.gov

How to reach USA by Air.

USA can be reached by Air from the neighbour countries on a regular basis. It is connected by air from almost every part of the world. Almost all 50 states have its own Airport. Book safe and reliable flights from your destination to USA on uemigrate.com

Some direct flights from various popular world destinations to popular destinations in the US are given below:

FLIGHTS FROM

FLIGHT TO

LHR (London Heathrow Airport) London, UK

  • JFK (John F. Kennedy International Airport), New York, USA
  • BOS (Boston Logan International Airport), East Boston, USA
  • LAX (Los Angeles International Airport), LA, USA

CDG (Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport/Roissy Airport) Paris, France

  • JFK (John F. Kennedy International Airport), New York, USA
  • ATL (Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport) Georgia, USA
  • LAX (Los Angeles International Airport), LA, USA

AMS (Amsterdam Airport Schiphol), Netherlands

  • JFK (John F. Kennedy International Airport), New York, USA
  • ATL (Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport) Georgia, USA
  • DTW (Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport), Michigan, USA

YYZ (Toronto Pearson International Airport) Toronto, Canada

  • LGA (LaGuardia Airport), New York, USA
  • ORD (Chicago O’Hare International Airport), Illinois
  • FLL (Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport), Florida, USA

YVR (Vancouver International Airport) Richmond, Canada

  • SEA (Seattle–Tacoma International Airport) Washington, USA
  • LAX (Los Angeles International Airport), LA, USA
  • SFO (San Francisco International Airport), California, USA

MEX (Mexico City International Airport) Mexico City, Mexico

  • IAH (George Bush Intercontinental Airport), Houston, Texas
  • MIA (Miami International Airport), Florida, USA
  • LAX (Los Angeles International Airport), LA, USA

CUN (Cancún International Airport) Cancun, Mexico

  • DFW (Dallas Fort Worth International Airport), Texas, USA
  • ORD (Chicago O’Hare International Airport), Illinois
  • ATL (Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport) Georgia, USA

GDL (Guadalajara International Airport)  Mexico

  • LAX (Los Angeles International Airport), LA, USA
  • ORD (Chicago O’Hare International Airport), Illinois, USA
  • FAT (Fresno Yosemite International Airport) California, USA

How to immigrate to United States – Immigration Regulations

Flag of United State of America
Flag of United State of America

To move to United States permanently is possible after obtaining a green card also known as immigration visa or permanent residence permit. This card permits unrestricted employment and this can be renewed indefinitely.  Prior to starting your journey you will need to keep the process in mind. You need to meet certain requirements if you want to move permanently or temporarily to the U.S. like your application must be approved by the U.S. Government and paying Government’s fees is mandatory. The process can be complicated and expensive, so what lies ahead is important to keep in mind.

There are different types of visas available depending on the purpose of your travel to United States of America. Visas like EB-1A, EB-2, EB-3, EB-5, O-1, H-1B, F2A, F-2B, F-3, F-4. F-1 & J-1 are types of students visa.

Types of Visas:

  • Family based green cards
  • Employment based green cards
  • Humanitarian green cards
  • Diversity lottery green cards
  • Longtime resident green cards
  • Other green cards

For more information please visit: boundless.com

People

People, who are born on the United States soil, are called ‘Americans’. It also consists of many dual citizens, expatriates and permanent residents. It is a home to many ethnic groups; this is the reason why its culture and law do not equate nationality with race or ethnicity, but bona fide citizenship and a statement of permanent allegiance. Here people like African Americans, Asian Americans, Native Americans and Alaska Natives, etc live happily and peacefully with each other.

Americans are very friendly and they are happy to help when asked. They are known as the most hospitable people and can go out of the way to make foreigner feel more at home. They commonly greet each other by shaking hands. It is common in America to give hugs to a person who is very friendly with them. They respect each other’s privacy and take appointments before meeting. Americans also enjoy music a lot. Modern music is also enjoyed by them. Good and bad people are everywhere in the world but more of it, it also depends on one’s perspective.

Job offers in the United States

To enter in the US, first thing you have to do is look for a job. Then start searching for a sponsor for your visa. USA has plenty of job opportunities for deserving candidates. Opportunities in the US are always available in every field and the demands are also higher. 

Jobs in The USA are not just for graduates, but also for students who are still to complete graduation. Part time work is also available for the students who want to earn while studying. Jobs highly in demand are HR Manager, Electrical Engineer, Product Manager, Software developer, Manager, Nurse, Engineers, IT professionals, Drivers, Fitness Trainer, etc.

How to get a job offer:

  • Take your time and be aware of scams.
  • Verify eligibility then apply for a job.
  • Give interview Online.
  • File a petition if necessary.
  • Wait for the employer’s petition approval.
  • Apply for a temporary visa.
  • Interview with the U.S. embassy.

Unemployment rate

The unemployment rate in the Unites States has gone down till 3.8% in February 2022. The rate is measured on a monthly basis in the United States. According to a report, the principle fact finding agency for the U.S. Federal Government in labor economics and statistics unemployment has went down from 2010 to 2020. The unemployment rate was higher in the year 2021 than this year’s rate which was 5.3%. In December 2021, the states with the highest unemployment rate were California, Nevada, New York and New Mexico. Unemployment rate was the lowest in Utah 1.9% and in Nebraska it was 1.7%. Workers related to private wage and are in agriculture industry suffered the highest unemployment rate at 8.5% as of January 2022.

For more information please visit: statista.com

Economy  

American economy grew at a rate of 5.7 % in the year 2021, which is the strongest growth after 30 years. The United States is a highly developed country with the market economy and it has the world’s largest nominal GDP and net wealth. In the year 2021 America has the world’s fifteenth highest per capita GDP (purchasing power parity (PPP)). The United States has the most technologically powerful and innovative economy in the world. The US Dollar is the most used currency in international transactions. This country is the world’s largest importer and the second largest exporter in the whole world. United States economy is fueled by abundant natural resources, a well developed infrastructure and high productivity. The nation is the world’s largest producer of petroleum and natural gas. 

For more information please visit: en.wikipedia.org

Renting and buying of real estates for foreigners

Renting:

Apartment for rent is easily available with some minimal restrictions in the whole country. Numerous accommodation options are available so that you can choose according to your lifestyle. Apartments can be searched online on different websites. These websites allow you to contact the landlord directly, give a virtual tour of the apartment and there you can submit an offer too. Also, the provision of e-signing the rental agreement is helpful and it saves your time and money. But be aware of scams and fraudulent ads. Internet gives an easy access to anybody, so be attentive and sure that you are not giving your money to the party who does not exist. Some points are given below which will help you to rent a good property: 

  • Explore options online.
  • Set your budget first.
  • Take a look at the neighborhood.
  • Consider the parking options.
  • Read the lease carefully.

Buying:

Buying a property in the United States is possible for Non US citizens, as there is no citizenship required for real estate sales. But it also can be a bit tricky process. The good thing is foreigners evenly qualify and can apply for mortgage if they fulfill certain requirements. To buy a property some documents should be needed:

  • Social security number or ITIN.
  • Valid foreign Passport.
  • A United States Visa.
  • Driver’s License.
  • Bank Statements.
  • Financial records from your overseas Bank.
  • Proof of reserves.
  • Pay stubs.
  • Credit Score.
  • Tax return, etc.

For more information please visit: onjuno.com or redfin.com

Climate

The average weather of United States is temperate with some exceptions. The difference is due to change in the latitude and a range of geographic features like plains, mountains and deserts. This country has plains which are grassy and dry which also contains the desert in the west region.

Their climate includes mild and warm winters while summers are wet and hot, with a large number of thunder storms. Northwest and southeast areas are wet while the central part of the country is dry.

Alaska is also a state of the United States, located in the northwestern part of the country. Here the cold is bone chilling in winters and can be pretty warm too and the temperature can go up to 21˚C depending on the location and due to global warming situation.

For more information please visit: weather-and-climate.com

Languages

The most commonly used language in the United States of America is English (Specifically American English), as this country does not have an official language. English is spoken by 78% of the United States population. There are other languages which are spoken at home other than English, like Spanish spoken by 13.4%, Indigenous languages and languages brought to this country by the people from Africa, Asia and Europe.

Majority of speakers of these languages are bilingual and also can speak English. Other languages like creoles and sign languages have developed in the United States. Approx 430 languages are spoken or signed by the people of America, of which some are indigenous or are formerly spoken in the country and now are extinct.

For more information please visit: en.wikipedia.org

Traffic

Driving in America is not as tough as many people may think. Roads are wider, less occupied and very simple than some other country’s road networks. But there are some exemptions like San Francisco city. After becoming an adult you can get driving license in the United States (minimum age is 18 years old). A valid driving license is must for the people who are willing to drive in this country. If you are a foreigner, then IDP (international driving permit) is required and a valid license from the country you have come from.

There are simple and basic driving rules, regulations and laws in the United States of America:

  • Drive on the right hand side of the road.
  • Pass others on the left hand side of the road.
  • Seat belt is must for all occupants in a vehicle.
  • Turning right is permitted while the traffic light is red.

For more information visit: usa.gov

Currency:

Unites States Dollar ($, US$, U$) is the official currency of the United States of America and in many other countries. US Dollar paper currency is in seven denominations, which are $1, $2, $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100 and coins as cents or penny, in 1¢, 5¢, 10¢, 20¢, 25¢, 50¢ and $1. Nowadays the bills in larger denominations are not getting produced or issued by this nation, such as $500, $1,000, $5,000 or $10,000 bills. But they are still legal and are in circulation.

Payment Transaction

Payments are essential as the funds can be transferred from payer to payee after purchasing something. There are four main methods of payment transactions in the United Stated of America:

  • Cash payment: It is the most common way to pay for purchases. This includes bills and change (paper money and coins).
  • Cheque: Payment through the buyers account can be done by cheques.
  • Debit Card: Using the Debit Card means taking the money directly out of the customer’s account.
  • Credit Card: Another convenient option to pay for the purchases. Credit Cards do look like credit card but works differently.

 There are some popular online payment methods given below:

  • Visa Card.
  • Master Card
  • Affirm
  • American Express (AMEX)
  • Diners

 For more information visit: adyen.com

Cost of living in the United States

Average living cost in United States of America depends upon your lifestyle or your current situation, like whether you are working or a student. Cost of living varies from city to city and also if you are staying alone or with your family. The average monthly expense for a single person is approximately $3,200. And the monthly expense will rise if you want to move along with your family of four persons, which will be $7,500. Expensive cities are San Francisco (CA), New York (NY), Washington DC (The Capital),  San Jose, (CA) and Seattle (WA), etc,. Cities like El Paso (TX), Wichita (KS), Lexington (KY) and Tulsa (OK), Memphis (TN) are considered as most affordable to live in. If you want to live alone in expensive cities, it will cost approx more than $50,000 including rent and if you have a family of four people then approximately you need more than $70,000 excluding rent per annum. Food is cheap and if you are staying in a city where you can go by bicycle, walking till your university or office or live in a city with a good public transport system, then your cost of living will be much lower.

For more info visit: upwardli.com

Apartment Rent

Rent for one bedroom apartments in the city will cost you approx $1,500 from $1,100 a year before. The average monthly rent for all the apartments in the US rose instantly in 2021. Apartment rent also varies from state to state and city to city. State like California and North Carolina are more expensive than Arkansas and Tennessee. One bedroom apartment in the city center will cost you approx. $1,536 and same apartment, outside city will cost approx $1,250. An apartment of 3 bedrooms in the city center will cost you approx. $2,750 and outside the city, it will cost you approx $2,150.

Taxes  

Income taxes are imposed by the Federal Government in the United States of America. This country has separate federal, state, and local governments with taxes imposed at each of these levels. Taxes are levied on income, payroll, property, sales, capital gains, dividends, imports, estates and gifts and various kinds of Fee. Currently there are 7 federal income tax brackets all over the country with the rates of 10%, 12%, 22%, 24%, 32%, 35%, AND 37%. With a marginal tax rate you should pay the tax rate on the amount of your income that comes into a certain range. If you are single then you must use the filing status. Taxpayers like you, who also have dependents, must file as “Head of Household”. To be in this category, you have to pay for atleast half of the household expenses, must be unmarried and have a qualifying dependent.

For more information please visit: smartasset.com

Education

In the United States, education is primarily organized into elementary, secondary, and higher education. The educational system is decentralized, with each state having its authority over education policies and curriculum standards. Public education is generally free and compulsory, beginning around the age of five or six with kindergarten and lasting through high school, which typically concludes at age 18. The language of instruction is English, and while there is a diverse range of private schools, homeschooling is legal in all 50 states, but the regulations and requirements can vary. This allows parents to educate their children outside traditional school settings. Homeschooling involves parents designing and implementing their curriculum or using established programs, with varying state requirements for reporting and assessment. Additionally, the U.S. hosts numerous international schools and universities that cater to foreign students, immigrants, and expats. Some of the most renowned universities include Harvard, MIT, and Stanford. Degrees from American institutions are widely accepted globally, with U.S. universities ranking among the top choices for international students pursuing higher education.

Health Insurance  

Health insurance in the United States of America is not free of cost. The consumer has to pay premiums to a health insurance company and that payment covers all your medical expenses. Expats can also buy health insurance in the United States. Now a days health care is very expensive, so it can cost you more than hundred dollars and if you get a chance to stay in the hospital then your expense can rise more than this. As a result it is good to carry health insurance with you beforehand to prevent the unexpected medical expense. You can purchase your health insurance privately or can have a social insurance or a welfare program funded by the government. There are many health insurance company’s website available on the internet, but please be alert while choosing the company and the health insurance program according to your convenience.

For more information visit: visitorguard.com

Important addresses

Austin–Bergstrom international Airport (OSL)
3600 Presidential Blvd,
Austin, Texas 78719,
Untied States
Ph: +1 512 530 2242
Website: austintexas.gov

Los Angeles International Airport
1 World Way,
Los Angeles,
California 90045,
United States
Ph: +1 855 463 5252
Website: flylax.com

Nashville International Airport
1 Terminal Dr,
Tennessee 37214,
United States
Ph: +1 615 275 1675
Website: flynashville.com

8 Street Subway Station
New York,
New York 10003,
United States
Website: mta.com

Consulate General of India
3 E 64th St,
New York, NY 10065
United States
Ph: +1 347-721-9243
Website: indiainnewyork.gov.in

Consulate General of Malaysia
313 43rd St,
New York,
NY 10017,
United States
Ph: +1 212-490-2723
Website: kln.gov.my

Consulate General of the Netherlands
666 3rd Ave,
New York,
NY 10017,
United States
Ph: +1 646-557-2200
Website: netherlandsworldwide.nl

Royal Thai Consulate General
351 E 52nd St, New York,
NY 10022,
United States
Ph: +1 212-754-1770
Website: newyork.thaiembassy.org

Summary

The United States, celebrated for its happiness, beauty, and cultural richness, stretches from Alaska to Hawaii, providing a diverse landscape. As a global financial and cultural hub, it offers lucrative job opportunities and a robust education system. The sincerity of its people and a multicultural environment enhance its appeal. Home to Hollywood, a symbol of filmmaking, the U.S. ensures a quality lifestyle, with expenses varying based on chosen lifestyles. While relatively costly compared to other American countries, the U.S. justifies the expense with its environmental charm, diverse lifestyle options, and architectural marvels. With a vast landmass, the country offers varied living experiences, though finding quality accommodation can be a challenge. Living and working in the U.S. is a preferred choice for immigration due to its stable politics, welcoming attitude toward immigrants, and numerous attractions, including natural wonders, making it an ideal destination.

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