The USA certainly is one of the most incredible countries on the planet. With its own unique culture and fantastic attractions, it’s understandable why so many expats choose to live there every single year. However, it can take time to adjust, as there are so many different routine changes and regulations that you need to learn about.
In this article, we are going to discuss eight different tips for expats living in the USA. Sound interesting? Then keep on reading!
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Sort out your visa’s and work permits in advance
The process of getting into the USA can be extremely complicated, so you want to make sure that you sort out all of the necessary paperwork in advance. Without the correct visa or work permits, you can be fined and even refused admission into the country. Try and apply as early as you can so that you have time to correct any errors that arise. Trust us when we say it’s better to be prepared!
If you don’t know English, try your best to learn it
While there is quite a bit of diversity in large US cities, in most places, English is the main language. In order to communicate effectively, you want to try and learn it, or at least some of the most common phrases. If you plan on working, it’s definitely going to be essential, no matter what job you are in.
Learning a new language is never easy, and it can be challenging to stay motivated, but the more you practice, the easier it will become. It just takes a little commitment and time.
Prepare yourself with health insurance
The USA doesn’t have the best healthcare, so you want to be prepared before you make your official move. Accidents can always happen, and with large hospital bills, you want to know that it isn’t going to push you into a financial crisis. Try checking out Health Insurance in the USA for Expats so that you know you will be covered in all the right areas. It will ease your mind and keep your wallet happy.
Take time to learn about the laws and crime rates
Every country has different laws, and in the USA, you want to make sure that you know them. The last thing you want is to end up in jail or with a huge fine for something that you didn’t know was illegal.
On top of this, it can be extremely beneficial to do some research into the current crime rates. While some areas of America are wonderful, there are some places you want to avoid. Have a look at these public safety rankings so that you can remain safe at all times.
Tipping and sales tax are very different
In America, tipping is a very big part of their culture. While it is still classified as voluntary, you’ll get asked a lot of questions if you choose not to leave one. This is because most waiters/waitresses survive off these tips due to an extremely low set wage. A 20% tip on top of the bill is usually standard, but a bit more can be given for fantastic service.
On top of this, another thing you’ll want to remember is that sales tax is added on at the register. So, don’t go too crazy at the shopping mall, as you’ll be hit with a surprise when you start to check out!
They still use the imperial system
Certainly, one major inconvenience of the USA is that they still use the imperial system, unlike the rest of the world, which uses the metric system. Instead of centimeters and meters, they have inches and yards. Instead of grams and kilos, they have pounds and ounces, and instead of degrees, they have Fahrenheit. It’s certainly confusing, but at the end of the day, it’s just something that you’ll need to get used to.
Save up for some driving lessons
If you’re coming from Australia or anywhere nearby, then one thing that you want to remember is that the US drive on the right side of the road. This can be very confusing at first, so even if you have gotten your license, try and save up for some lessons. It will make driving around much more comfortable, and you’ll know that you are as safe as possible when out on the road.
The portion sizes are enormous
If you love food, then you are going to love the US. Their portion sizes are humongous compared to other countries around the world. A wise tip is to pay attention to what you are ordering, or at least ask for a takeaway bag! Otherwise, there is going to be a lot of food going to waste!
And that’s it! These were eight tips for expats living in the USA. It might be a big change at first, but after a while, you can start to enjoy everything that this incredible country has to offer.
Good luck!
