If you’ve recently arrived in the United States on an immigrant visa or plan to do so, there are crucial steps you must take immediately. Failure to complete these steps promptly may lead to legal complications or challenges in the future.
1. Apply for a Social Security Number (SSN): If you requested a Social Security Number when filling out Form DS-230 or DS-260 during your visa application, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will provide your information to the Social Security Administration (SSA). In this case, you’ll automatically receive your SSN card at your U.S. address within a few weeks of arrival.
However, if you did not request an SSN during the visa process, you must visit a Social Security office to apply. This number is essential for working, opening a bank account, filing taxes, obtaining identification, and other important activities.
2. Apply for a State ID or Driver’s License: After receiving your SSN, the next important step is to apply for a state-issued identification card or driver’s license. You will need to provide documents such as your SSN, green card, passport, proof of address, and bank card.
A state ID is essential for various purposes, including air travel and entering federal buildings. Starting May 7, 2025, a REAL ID-compliant identification card will be mandatory for domestic flights in the U.S. Visit your local DMV, pay the required fees, and submit the necessary documents to obtain your REAL ID.
3. Register with Selective Service (for Men Aged 18–25): All male green card holders aged 18 to 25 are legally required to register with the U.S. Selective Service System within 30 days of arrival. Failure to do so can result in losing your green card, delays in naturalization by up to five years, or disqualification from federal jobs, grants, and loans.
Non-compliance can also lead to fines of up to $250,000 or imprisonment for up to five years. If you are over 26 years old, this requirement does not apply to you.
4. Report Address Changes: If you change your address after arriving in the U.S., you must notify U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) within 10 days. Simply updating your address with the U.S. Postal Service does not update it with USCIS.
Use Form AR-11 to report your new address, either online through your USCIS account or by mail. Failure to comply can result in fines of $200, imprisonment for up to 30 days, or even deportation if it is proven that you deliberately failed to notify USCIS.
5. Respond to Jury Duty Notices: While green card holders are not required to serve on juries, you may still receive a jury duty summons due to being listed in DMV records. Only U.S. citizens are eligible for jury duty. If you receive a summons, you must respond by providing proof of your non-citizen status (e.g., a copy of your green card).
Ignoring a jury duty notice can lead to fines or even jail time, as courts may issue a bench warrant for your arrest.
Kishor Panthi
View More PostsKishor Panthi is the founder and editor-in-chief of Khasokhas and NepYork. He is the author of three books, “Kampan,” "UNTRANSLATABLE" and “Zero Mile.” He writes about social issues, immigration, and politics.
