What paperwork do you need after moving to the United States in 2026?

Confirm admission class and dates on Check your I-94. If USCIS rules apply to you, update your address with USCIS within 10 days of any move, separate from mail forwarding.

Work-authorized newcomers usually apply for a Social Security number or, when eligible only for tax filing, an ITIN. Open a bank account with the same address proof your landlord accepted. If you need a separate card to work, file work authorization before starting employment that requires an Employment Authorization Document (EAD).

Choose health insurance through an employer, Healthcare.gov, or another eligible route. At the state motor vehicle office, handle driving licence and vehicle registration on the timeline your state sets for new residents.

Turn on home utilities, file USPS change of address, and complete Form I-9 at work. Families with school-age children start public school enrolment and transfer school records through the local district.

Shipments and pets follow their own calendars: Import household goods, Bring pets, and foreign certificates may need Apostille documents prepared before you leave the issuing country.