Before Coming to the US Yuliya Levit Before Coming to the US Yuliya Levit

Choice of location

As you plan your move to the U.S., you should spend time considering your destination. The U.S. is a large and diverse country and your experience will be different depending on the area you choose. Two main considerations should be whether the area has a Ukrainian community and whether you will choose to reside in an urban, suburban, or rural area.

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First Steps in the US, Paperwork Xeniya Lomazova First Steps in the US, Paperwork Xeniya Lomazova

Social Security Number (SSN)

A Social Security Number (SSN) is an identification number assigned to every U.S. resident for life. Your identity and financial history in the U.S. are tied to this number. Government agencies, landlords, and financial institutions will ask you to provide this number when they need to check your background, credit score, and financial reliability. The sooner you receive an SSN, the easier your resettlement will be. You can and should receive an SSN for each family member, even for newborn children.

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First Steps in the US, Paperwork Xeniya Lomazova First Steps in the US, Paperwork Xeniya Lomazova

Employment Authorization Application (Form I-765)

Employment Authorization Document (EAD), also called Form I-765, is a plastic card issued to you by USCIS. It allows you to work legally in the US during an authorized period.

As of November 21, 2022, you may work for 90 days without an EAD, but you still need to apply for it after three months. Your employer will be required to check that you have it.

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