If you have arrived in the United States on an immigrant visa — or are planning to — there are several essential steps to complete right away. Delays can lead to legal complications or practical difficulties later.
Apply for a Social Security Number
If you requested a Social Security number (SSN) while completing Form DS-230 or DS-260 with the U.S. Department of State, the Department of Homeland Security will share your information with the Social Security Administration, and your card will be mailed to you automatically.
If you did not request an SSN during your visa or green card application, you must apply in person at a Social Security office.
An SSN is required for employment, opening a bank account, paying taxes, and obtaining identification. If requested during the visa process, the card typically arrives within three weeks of your arrival. A similar timeline applies if you apply at a local office after arriving.
Apply for a State ID or REAL ID
After receiving your SSN, you can open a bank account. Another key step is applying for a state-issued identification card.
You will need to provide documents such as your SSN, a bank card, your green card, your passport, and proof of address. Applications are processed through your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
A REAL ID — marked with a star — is required for domestic air travel and entry into certain federal buildings. Once issued, it allows you to travel within the United States without carrying a passport.
Register for the Selective Service
Male immigrants ages 18 to 25 are required to register with the U.S. Selective Service System within 30 days of arrival. Those 26 or older are not required to register.
Failure to register can have serious consequences, including the potential loss of eligibility for U.S. citizenship, delays in naturalization of up to five years, and ineligibility for certain federal jobs, training programs, loans, or grants. Penalties may also include fines of up to $250,000 and up to five years in prison.
Report Address Changes to USCIS
If you move after arriving in the United States, you must notify U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) within 10 days.
Updating your address with the U.S. Postal Service does not update your USCIS record. To report a change, file Form AR-11 online through your USCIS account or submit it by mail.
Failure to report a change of address can result in penalties, including fines, possible detention, or even removal proceedings in serious cases.
Respond Properly to Jury Duty Notices
Non-U.S. citizens are not eligible for jury duty. However, green card holders and other non-citizens may still receive a jury summons due to state ID or voter registration records.
If you receive a jury notice, you must respond and indicate that you are not a U.S. citizen. Include supporting documentation, such as a copy of your green card or passport.
Ignoring a jury summons can result in fines, jail time, or a bench warrant for your arrest. Law enforcement may act on such a warrant during any interaction, including routine traffic stops.
In general, jury service is considered a civic duty similar to paying taxes, but it applies only to U.S. citizens who meet specific eligibility requirements.
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.
