Frequently Asked Questions about the USA


Is an immigration attorney necessary?
Immigration attorney's can be a big help when filing for visas but are not necessary. Companies that hire many expats may already have an immigration attorney or be familiar enough with the necessary process that one isn't needed. For employment companies often need to prove their case that foreign workers are needed and this process is most easily facilitated by an attorney. There are a lot of regulations and loopholes in the American immigration process which can be helpful to exploit but are confusing to learn on one's own.

Can my family work in the US?
Familiesareusuallyallowed visas if their spouse or parent has been given permission for employment in the US. Once residency is established spouses can apply to the United StatesCitizenship and Immigration Services for permission for employment. This does not apply to children.

Do I need a Social Security Number?
Yes, this is important for everything from getting a drivers license to opening a bank account. To receive a social security number one must be in the country for 10 days but the application can be done at the same time as applying for an immigrant visa.

Social Security Number immigration home page:
www.ssa.gov/immigration

Can I become a U.S. Citizen?
It is possible to become a US citizen. One must have a valid residency card and have resided in the US for a number of years. This is easier if marrying a US citizen. One must also past a citizenship test. Any children born in the US will automatically be considered American citizens.

Can I buy a home in the U.S.?
A foreigner is legally allowed to buy property in the states but this doesn't necessarily give them access to the house without a visa. Residents can buy a house while they are in the country. It may be difficult to get US bank loans if a previous credit history is from another country.

Search Expat Arrivals

Become our local expat expert for your city!

Expat Arrivals is looking for contributors to make this the ultimate guide for international expats.
If you are an established expat who could make time to spend a few hours a month writing useful information for expats in your city and answering forum questions from new and prospective expats, please contact us.
As our local expert you can have your profile showing on each page you publish, earn advertising revenue on that content, and promote your website or blog if you have one.