Essential Things Australians Should Know Before Moving to the USA
Thinking about making the big move to the USA? Whether it’s for work, study, love, or a fresh start, relocating from Australia to the States is a huge step and there’s a lot to think about before you get on that plane.
Here’s a helpful guide packed with things Aussies should know before moving to the USA, so you can be better prepared and avoid surprises once you land.
First things first, you can’t move without the right visa. Australians have a few good options, especially the E-3 visa, which is designed just for Aussies with a job offer in a specialised field.
H-1B visa (for skilled workers in high demand)
L-1 visa (for company transfers)
Green Card lottery (if you’re lucky enough to win)
Every visa has its own rules and most require a job offer upfront. It’s a good idea to chat with an immigration expert or check the US Embassy’s website so you don’t get caught out with paperwork issues.
Cost of living in the States varies heaps depending on where you go. Big cities like New York, LA and San Francisco? You’ll need a decent salary to keep up. But there are plenty of smaller or regional cities where your money will go further.
Some things to keep in mind:
Be sure to do a proper budget so you’re not caught off guard.
In Australia, we’ve got Medicare to help cover doctor visits, hospital stays and prescriptions. In the USA, everything is privately funded and if you don’t have insurance, medical bills can be eye-watering.
Even a quick visit to the doctor can cost you hundreds without cover, so don’t risk going without.
Once you’ve arrived, you’ll need to open a US bank account, which usually requires a local address and ID. You’ll also need a Social Security Number (SSN) to work, get paid and access services.
You’ll need to lodge federal and sometimes state tax returns.
Your Aussie income or super could still need reporting.
The US and Australia have a tax treaty to help avoid double tax, but it’s still worth talking to an accountant.
Finances can get tricky quickly, so don’t leave it to the last minute.
Work in the USA might look similar on the surface, but there are a few differences Aussies notice pretty quickly:
The upside? The US has a massive job market and plenty of opportunity if you’re ready to hustle. Make sure your CV suits American employers and don’t be afraid to network, it’s a big part of job hunting over there.
Renting in the USA has its quirks. Most landlords expect:
A security deposit (usually one month’s rent)
A credit history, which you won’t have at first
You might need to pay more upfront if you can’t tick all the boxes, or get a co-signer. Popular sites like Zillow, Realtor.com or Apartments.com can help you find listings in your area.
Read the full article to know more about moving to USA.
