Looking for “Staying Settled And Immigrating to the United States 2027/2028“, then you are not alone
Many people dream of moving to America because it can be very exhilarating. Here are the checklists we have constantly made to assist you make sure you have done everything and not feel overwhelmed.
America is a big country with different lifestyles and environments depending on where you are. You might want to visit different states to see which one is best for you.
While you are visiting, you might have job interviews to try to get a job that will help you get a visa to the United States.
Make sure you are moving to America for the right reasons. Don’t just believe everything you hear about the United States from the media or other people.
To make sure you have the right information, plan a trip to America where you can learn important things about living in the United States. Find out about job opportunities, how much money you can make, housing, and what life is like overall.
Why Should International Students Settle in USA?
Table Of Interest
In January 2023, US immigrants represented 14.2% of the nation’s total population. The given is the highest percentage in 112 years, since 1820. Besides, as of 2024, the US is the 3rd largest country worldwide, with a population of 334 million. But why did these people decide to settle in USA?
Whether you are an Indian or international student planning to study and settle in USA, the following factors will ensure your decision.
- USA is the most culturally diverse country with a 0.278 cultural diversity index. The country has influences from European American, Asian American, African American, Latin American, and Native American cultures. Adjusting to these cultures might seem challenging initially, but later, people begin to enjoy their independence, equality, directness, informality, etc.
- In the USA, more than 239 million people speak English. Therefore, the country is a preferred study destination for English speakers. However, the other spoken languages include Spanish, Chinese, French, and German.
- America offers immense religious freedom. The people can practice every known religion in the world like Catholic, Jewish, Agnostic, Hindu, Muslim, Buddhist, and others. The research states that only 23% of Americans consider themselves non-religious.
- Lastly, people can enjoy multiple sports in the USA like football, baseball, ice hockey, and basketball.
With the perks of living in USA, let’s understand…
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How to Settle in USA?
Many international students often wonder, “I am Indian and want to settle in USA” or “I am an international student and want to settle in USA.” As exciting as it may sound to enjoy the country’s learning-based environment, exceptional lifestyle, and quality of education, this decision involves a lot of preparation. Let’s go through the steps on how to settle in USA.
- Plan your budget by checking the cost of living in USA 2024, selecting a university in US, the best course in the US, etc. They will help you get an estimation to arrange the finance from loans, scholarships in the US, personal funds, etc.
- Pick an affordable accommodation to live in the US by comparing the universities’ on-campus/off-campus rents or urban/suburban/rural area charges of houses/flats. The average monthly apartment cost in the US can vary from $600 to $3000.
- Understand the US traffic rules, as even crossing a “no crossing” sign can cost you a huge fine. The universities will help the students know all the traffic rules; still, it is better to prepare in advance.
- Get familiar with the US metric system to avoid difficulty during your stay. For example, the units of measurement in India like kilometres, kilos, and degrees celsius get replaced by miles, pounds, and Fahrenheit.
Next, let’s explore the…
Advantages of Settling in USA for International Students
It is critical to highlight that settling in USA from India or any other country will benefit a student. Let’s check out how?
- USA offers around 3,928 colleges, b-schools, and universities with amazing academic reputations, research facilities, campus life, quality of teaching, etc. The list includes some world-renowned universities like Harvard University, Stanford University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, University of California-Berkeley, and others.
- The universities in the US offer more than 2 million; 2-year and 4-year courses with the best ones like business & management, engineering, maths and computer science, social science, etc.
- Reports state that the US is expected to achieve job opportunities growth of 11.5 million between 2019 to 2026.
- The US campuses help improve international students’ cross-cultural communication skills and provide global recognition.
Now you know why settling in USA from India or other international countries is a progressive decision. Next, let’s have a brief understanding on…
Types of Immigrants in US
Following are the type of immigrants in the USA and their visa requirements to settle for a career, living, or education. The list mainly covers employment and study immigrants.
| Immigrant Type | Visa Requirments |
| Priority Workers | EB-1 Visa |
| Professionals Holding Advanced Degrees and Persons of Exceptional Ability | EB-2 Visa |
| Skilled, Unskilled Workers, and Professionals | EB-3 Visa |
| Special Immigrant (Religious Workers, Broadcasters, Afgan and Iraqi Translators, Special Immigrant Juveniles, etc.) | EB-4 Visa |
| Immigrant Investor Program | EB-5 Visa |
| International Academic Student | F-1 Visa |
| International Vocational Student | M-1 Visa |
Now you know the requirements of visas for settling in USA from India or other international countries. Additionally, let’s go through the…
Ways to Settle in USA
You can move to US from India or an international country by following these crucial visa procurement steps:
- Getting a passport to apply for a visa and stamp.
- Finishing Adhar formalities/ or providing identity proof.
- Completing and updating the Bank account KYC or providing the bank account’s financial details.
- Submitting academic transcripts, statement of purpose, letter of recommendation, English proficiency certificate, and other exams scorecards like GMAT/GRE (if required.)
- Verifying the mobile number.
- Installing mobile banking apps.
- Getting a medical examination.
- Going to a visa interview.
- Lastly, waiting for the decision of the visa committee.
How to Settle in USA with a Green Card?
Following are the requirements that an international resident must fulfil to get a green card in USA:
- Through Family: You can apply for a green card in the US if you are:
- An immediate relative of a US citizen
- Spouse
- Unmarried child under 21 years of age
- Parent of a US citizen who is at least 21 years old
- A special immigrant
- A religious worker who is member of a religious denomination and wish to work in the US for a non-profit organisation.
- Juvenile seeking protection from court due to physical/mental abuse.
- Afghanistan or Iraq national who has worked under the US government.
- An international broadcaster who has come to work under the US Agency for Global Media (USAGM) or its grantee.
- Employee of an international organisation or NATO-6.
- An International Student with F-1 Visa: You can apply for a green card on:
- Receiving an employee sponsorship.
- Marrying a US citizen.
- Seeking Asylum.
- Winning the green card lottery.
- Winning sponsorship from a relative who owns a business.
- Participating in military service.
- Receiving parent/child sponsorship.
With so many options available, it becomes intimidating to pick the right one for settling in USA from India. But worry not, take guidance from our well-qualified and experienced counsellors. They will surely help you find the best way to settle in the USA, making your abroad journey an accomplishment.
Frequently Asked Questions on How to Settle in USA
Ques. How to settle in USA from India permanently?
Ans. Many people wonder, “I want to settle in the USA from India.” But the best way is to check if you are eligible and then file the form I-485—the application to register permanent residence or adjust status with USCIS—including all critical documents and fees.
Ques. Can one move to the USA without any job?
Ans. An EB-5 visa is available for international entrepreneurs who can invest a minimum of $500,000 in the US industry.
Ques. How long does it take to move to the USA legally?
Ans. With no country backlog, the average time for labour certification, visa petition, or adjustment of status takes 1.5 to 3 years in the USA.
Ques. How many visas are there in the US?
Ans. Even though there are 185 visas in the USA, the two major categories are non-immigrants and immigrants.
Ques. What is asked in the US green card visa interview?
Ans. The visa interviewing officer usually asks questions about future employment, family/other relationships, career objectives, medical history, criminal cases (if any), etc
Arrange For Temporary Housing
You’ll need somewhere to stay as soon as you arrive, so book a hotel, an Airbnb property, or a vacation home that you can use as your initial base.
When choosing a neighborhood to reside in, arranging to lodge with a local property owner allows you to benefit from their local expertise.
Get Things Out Your Way
Large items, such as furniture, will almost certainly require container transit and sea freight to arrive in the United States. You may have them sent to your hotel if you provide your hotel address.
Open An American Bank Account
Set up a bank account with a debit card so you can pay for items without having to carry cash with you all the time. You’ll undoubtedly wish to transfer money from your old bank account to your new one in the United States.
You should make the transfer when the rates are most favorable to you.
When you move to the United States, you will need to open an American bank account so that you can conveniently pay your expenses and get your paycheck.
To open an account, you’ll usually need evidence of address, a passport, immigration paperwork, and your social security number.
Make sure you’re savvy about how you go about it by looking around for the greatest money transfer offer and keeping an eye on currency rates.
Schedule Your Health Insurance
Employers frequently contribute to health insurance, so check with yours to see whether you’re covered.
Comprehensive medical insurance is recommended above a budget alternative because the latter may not cover some medical testing.
Be Familiar With The Laws In The US
These include the requirement in some places for homeowners to clear snow off the sidewalk in front of their homes, as well as the fact that gambling is prohibited in several locations.
Conduct Pre-Research
Use the internet to learn everything you can about the United States. Make a list of areas you’d want to reside and apply for any jobs that fit your qualifications.
Make a schedule for when you should hand in your notice at your current work, travel to the United States for job interviews, and sell any properties you own.
Get a sense of what kind of employment is available and where they are most common. You should understand the steps involved in obtaining a visa and how long each one takes.
Get A Visa To The United States
Obtaining the necessary US visa, or Green Card is one of the most difficult obstacles to overcome when relocating to America.
You’ll most likely be able to get a Green Card through your family or your employment (although other ways also exist). You will need to apply for an F1 student visa if you want to study in America as an international student.
Allow many months to finish the application procedure before your intended move to America. A visa petition to US Citizenship and Immigration Services is the first step in this procedure.
The National Visa Center takes over after the application is accepted and gives directions for the official visa application and interviews.
If you already have a US citizen family member, they can apply for you to join them; alternatively, if you have a permanent job offer in the US, you can apply for immigrant status.
Make Yourself At Home
Before your big journey to America, there will be a lot of loose ends to tie up back home. You should also ensure that you have all of the documents you will require in the United States.
Your birth certificate, marriage certificate, divorce decree, and medical documents are likely to be required.
Get A Number For Social Security
If you didn’t apply for a social security number when you applied for your visa to enter the United States, it’s important to do so after you arrive in the country. A social security number is a unique identification number issued by the U.S. government that allows you to work and access various benefits and services.
To apply for a social security number, you need to visit a local Social Security Administration (SSA) office. These offices are located in different cities and towns across the United States. You can find the nearest office by checking the SSA’s website or contacting them directly.
When you go to the SSA office to apply for a social security number, you will need to bring certain documents with you. These documents serve as proof that you are allowed to work in the United States. Examples of documents you may need to provide include your passport, visa, and any other immigration-related documents that establish your legal status in the country.
Once you arrive at the SSA office, you will need to fill out an application form for a social security number. The form will ask for personal information such as your name, date of birth, address, and contact details. It’s important to fill out the form accurately and completely to avoid any delays in the application process.
After you have submitted the application form, the SSA will review your documents and process your application. They will verify your eligibility to work in the United States and determine whether you qualify for a social security number.
If your application is approved, the SSA will assign you a social security number. This number is unique to you and will serve as your official identification for employment and other purposes in the United States. The SSA will typically send your social security card by mail to the address you provided on the application form.
Search For Long-Term Accommodation
If you plan to stay in a place for a long time or buy a home, it’s a good idea to start looking for a permanent place to live as early as possible. This way, you can avoid paying a lot of money for temporary rentals or hotels for a long period.
When you’re renting a place, be careful about any extra costs you might have to pay. For example, you may need to give one month’s rent as a deposit before you move in. There could also be a damage deposit and additional rental charge if there is high demand for rentals in the area you’re looking at.
It’s important to know that when you buy a home, the real estate agent’s commission is paid by the seller of the property. This means you don’t have to worry about paying extra for their services when you’re purchasing a house.
Utilities Must Be Sorted Out
Once you have moved into your new home or apartment, it’s important to find the best deals for your utilities such as phone, internet, electricity, and gas. These services are essential for everyday living and can have a significant impact on your monthly expenses. By taking the time to shop around and compare options, you can save money and make sure you’re getting the most value for your utility services.
Start by researching different providers in your area. Look for companies that offer the services you need, such as phone and internet providers, as well as electricity and gas companies. You can use online search engines or ask neighbors and friends for recommendations.
Once you have a list of potential providers, compare their pricing, plans, and packages. Take note of any special offers, discounts, or promotional deals they may have for new customers. Pay attention to the rates they charge for different services and consider any additional fees or charges that may apply.
It’s also important to consider the reliability and quality of the services provided by each company. Read customer reviews and ratings to get an idea of their customer service and the overall satisfaction of their customers. A reliable and responsive customer service team can be valuable if you encounter any issues or need assistance in the future.
When comparing utility providers, don’t forget to check if they require any long-term contracts or if they offer flexibility in their plans. Consider your own needs and preferences. For example, if you prefer a month-to-month plan or if you’re willing to commit to a longer contract for potential savings.
Once you have gathered all the information, make a decision based on your budget and the services that best meet your needs. Contact the selected providers and inquire about the sign-up process, any required documentation, and the estimated time for installation or activation of the services.
Remember, finding the best deal on utilities can take a little effort and research, but it can be worth it in the long run. By comparing prices, considering customer reviews, and exploring different options, you can ensure that you’re getting the most affordable and reliable utility services for your new home or apartment.
USA Student Visa Guide: USA Study Visa Requirements, Cost, Application Process, Processing Time
Just getting accepted at your favourite university is not enough for studying abroad. The most crucial stage of your entire study abroad process is the visa application. Applying for a USA student visa from scratch can be a tedious process, but definitely worth the wait! Moreover, the US is one of the top choices for studying abroad, thereby making the USA student visa process a lot more competitive, as compared to other countries.
If you are someone who is willing to apply for a USA student visa, this guide will be a boon for you! So, read on to know the minutest details pertaining to USA study visa requirements, cost, processing time, and a lot more!
US Student Visa Latest Updates
According to the new US laws, students fully vaccinated are exempt from pandemic restrictions. Also, the US Department of Homeland Security has recently added 22 new STEM programs. The programs also allow students to extend their OPT or optional practical training up to 36 months as compared to 12 months before, to start their work upon graduation.
There is also a slight change in the US visa application process which might reflect from summer 2022. Lastly, the US has also waived in-person visa interviews for a majority of visa types.
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Types of US Student Visa
Before moving on to the USA study visa requirements, let us make you aware about the US student visa types. Given below are the 3 US student visa types:
- F-1 Student Visa: This is one of the most common types of US student visa and is suitable for programs requiring more than 18 hours of attendance per week. This visa type includes both UG and PG programs.
- J-1 Exchange Student Visa: The J-1 visa is suitable for students, scholars, working professionals looking for a short term program to study in the US. The visa is also applicable for students visiting the US for exchange programs.
- M-1 Vocational/ Non-Academic Visa: This particular type of visa is required for vocational programs and technical schools. This visa does not allow students to overstay in the US.
Requirements Pertaining to US Student Visa
Let us now move on to discovering the US student visa requirements. Given below are the various types of documents required to start your USA student visa application process:
Academic Documents
- Academic transcripts from high school
- Bachelor’s degree (if required)
- Acceptance letter (from your university/college)
- English language proficiency proof (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE)
- ACT, SAT, GMAT, GRE scores
- Provisional certificates
- LORs, SOPs
- Work experience proof
Financial Documents
- Bank statements (I-20 proof of funds)
- Salary slips and letter of employment
- Sponsorship letter (if available)
- Tax returns from past 3 years
- Loan approval letter (if required)
- Statement from CA
- Scholarship letter (if available)
Visa Documents
- Valid passport
- Printed copy of DS-160 form
- Interview appointment letter (original and copy)
- SEVIS fee receipt
- I-20 form (given by your university/college)
- Visa fee payment confirmation slip
Cost of US Student Visa
Now that we are aware about the USA student visa application requirements, let us know the USA student visa cost. The USA study visa fees can be split into 2 parts, i.e., SEVIS fee and the visa application fee.
Given below is the complete breakdown of USA student visa cost for different visa types:
| Type of Fee | F-1 Visa Type | J-1 Visa Type | M-1 Visa Type |
| SEVIS Fee | 350 USD | 220 USD | 350 USD |
| Visa Application Fee | 160 USD | 160 USD | 160 USD |
How to Apply for a US Student Visa?
The answer to the question-”How to apply for student visa for USA?” can be broken down into simple steps given below:
- Receive the I-20 form from your university/college.
- Pay the SEVIS fee before starting your USA student visa process.
- Get the SEVIS fee receipt, and fill the DS-160 visa form.
- Pay the visa application fee.
- Book an appointment for biometrics and a US visa interview.
Where to Apply for a US Student Visa?
The application for US student visa process pertaining to the F-1 visa is entirely online. Applicants need to visit the biometric and US visa interview centres to complete their USA student visa process from India.
Given below are the US Embassy and Consulate addresses to complete the US student visa process for Indian students:
- US Embassy in New Delhi, Shanti Path, Chanakyauri, New Delhi-110021
- US Consulate General in Mumbai, C-49, G-Block, Bandra Kurla Complex, Bandra East, Mumbai 400051
- US Consulate General in Chennai, 220 Anna Salai, Gemini Circle, 600006
- US Consulate General in Kolkata, 5/1 Ho Chi Minh Sarani, 700071
- US Consulate General in Hyderabad, Paigah Palace, 1-8-323, Chiran Fort Lane, Begumpet, Secunderabad 500 003
US Student Visa Processing Time
The USA student visa processing time can be averaged to 3-5 weeks, and even 2-3 months depending on your application and visa type. F-1 visa applicants can expect the processing time to be shorter than other visa types.
After receiving a positive response from the US visa consulate, applicants can usually expect their visa hard copy in around 2-3 days. Also, F-1 visas are issued before 120 days of the commencement of your programs in the US.
US Student Visa Interview Process
The US student visa interview is the last step of your US visa process for Indian students. A positive interview response can help you get hold of a student visa as soon as your interview ends!
Not the lengthiest part of the entire USA student visa process from India, the US student visa interview usually lasts for 4-5 minutes. At the time of your interview, you are supposed to carry all of your US study visa interview documents, neatly catalogued in a file.
Questions asked during the US visa interview usually focus around your intent of coming back, and your awareness about your program, university, finances, etc. At the end of your interview you can expect the visa officer to ask for your passport to get it stamped for a US visa!
The US visa process for Indian students can be simple and hasslefree provided all documents and information are appropriate. Moreover, performing your best in the interview can definitely lead you to a brighter future! If you are still confused about how to apply for student visa for USA, you can connect with us for help!
Frequently Asked Questions about US Student Visa
Ques. What is student visa for USA from India cost?
Ans. The student visa for USA from India cost is 350 USD as SEVIS fee, and 160 USD as visa application fee.
Ques. What are the financial document requirements for US student visa?
Ans. The financial documents required for US student visa are:
- Bank statements
- Salary slips and letter of employment
- Sponsorship letter (if available)
- Tax returns from past 3 years
- Loan approval letter (if required)
- Statement from CA
- Scholarship letter (if available)
Ques. What is the minimum age to apply for a US study visa?
Ans. Students above 16 years of age can apply for USA student visa process.
Ques. How much cost for student visa to USA?
Ans. The total cost for a US student visa sums up to 510 USD.
Ques. What is the US student visa processing time?
Ans. The US student visa processing time is 4-6 weeks.
Preparing For The Student Visa Interview
The F1 VISA interview is the final hurdle you’ll have to clear before you are well, and truly, on your way. After all the documents you are required to show at the time of the interview, you have to be prepared for the normal drill that the VISA Officer will take you through.
Every applicant should take care of the following three things:
Bonafide Student:
The officer will ask about your educational background and plans in order to assess how likely you are to enroll and remain in University until graduation. Be prepared to discuss the reasons you chose a particular University, your anticipated major, and your career plans. Bring school mark sheets, college mark sheets, GRE & TOEFL scores and anything else that demonstrates your academic commitment.
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Sponsor
Your chances are improved if your parents are sponsoring your education. If somebody is sponsoring you otherthan your parents, you should explain your special relationship with this person, who may be committing tens of thousand of dollars to your education.
Provide solid evidence of your finances. This will assure the Visa Officer that your sponsor has enough funds till the time you complete Graduation. If your sponsor’s income is from several different source (such as salary, contracts or consulting fees, acres of land, rental property, investments) have the sponsor write a letter listing and documenting eachsource of income.
Your ties to the Home Country
Economic Ties: These include your family’s economic position, property you may own and your own economic potential when you come home with a U.S education. The Visa Officer will be impressed to see evidence of your career planning and your knowledge of the local employment scene.
Family & Social Ties: How many close family members live in your home country, compared to those living in the States? What community activities have you participated in that demonstrate a sincere connection to your town or country?
Very often, the interview doesn’t even last long enough for the Officer to ask you these few questions. As long as you can maintain your composure and come up with straightforward answers to whatever he asks, you should be fine.
Mentioned below are some of the basic tips, tricks and myths about VISA Interview.
Tips, Tricks and Myths Regarding VISA
- You can/should get all the I-20s of the admits that you’ve received and then decide which university you want to go. There is nothing wrong and the VISA Officer won’t reject you on this basis.
- Book your VISA slot once you’ve received the I-20 and have confirmed on the final university.
- Do not lie to the VISA Officer as s/he has the basic information about you and your family. Be smart and tackle tricky questions.
- Prepare well if you’ve low academics, GRE and TOEFL score. Give reasons which sound sensible. Try to justify those reasons and at also show how you made up for the same.
- If you’ve a year gap post undergrad education and have done absolutely nothing in this period, make sure you’ve sufficient reasons to tackle their questions.
- Focus on the research work of the university that you’re going to join.
- Always ask for reasons if the VISA Officer rejects you.
- A day (preferably 3 weeks) before the intreview, PLEASE check for all the documents required for VISA Interview.
- Some say university tag (which is absolutely true) matters a lot, some leverage on GRE, and some might have other reasons. But the best way to ace the VISA process is be CONFIDENT and SMILE (not giggle) constantly.
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