Chapter 26: The Logistics of Moving (The first 90 days)

The first three months are the most stressful. You are building a life from scratch.

26.1. The “Golden Document”: The SSN

The Social Security Number is your “Entry Ticket” to the American system.

Without it, you can’t get a bank account, you can’t get a phone, and you can’t get paid.
The First Task: Apply for your SSN on Day 1. It takes about 2 weeks to arrive.

26.2. The Driver’s License: Your Primary ID

In America, your Passport is for travel, but your Driver’s License is your “Life ID.”

You need it to enter bars, to fly domestically, and to buy a car.
Recommendation: Get your US license early, even if you don’t plan to drive. It is the “Social Proof” that you live here.

26.3. The Rental Hustle

How do you get an apartment with no Credit Score?

The Deposit: Be prepared to pay 2-3 months of rent upfront.
The “Letter of Employment”: Your offer letter from your company is your only “proof of wealth” for the first 6 months.

26.4. Networking: The Referral Economy

In India, you apply for a job. In America, you get referred.

80% of jobs in the US are never posted on LinkedIn. They are filled by someone saying, “I know a guy.”
The Task: Spend your first 90 days reaching out to people on LinkedIn for “Informational Interviews.” Don’t ask for a job; ask for “Advice.” Americans love giving advice.

Practical Takeaway for the Indian: Join a “Newcomers” group on Facebook or Reddit for your specific city. The people who arrived 6 months before you have all the “life hacks” for where to buy cheap furniture and which grocery stores have the best atta.