New to the U.S.?
The things everyone has to work out in the first few months, in one place.
- 1
Social Security number
Apply at the Social Security office in person. Bring your immigration documents and passport. It arrives by post in about two weeks. Almost everything else — a job, a bank account, a phone contract — waits on this, so do it first.
- 2
Nevada ID or driver's licence
The DMV needs proof of identity, your Social Security number, and two documents proving a Nevada address. A lease or a utility bill in your name works. Appointments book up — make one online rather than walking in.
- 3
Renting without credit history
Most large complexes want a credit score you do not have yet. A private landlord, a room in a shared house, or a co-signer are the usual ways round it. Expect to be asked for a larger deposit. Never send money before you have seen the place and met the person.
- 4
A phone without a contract
Prepaid plans need no credit check and no Social Security number. Buy one on day one so people can reach you, and switch to a contract later if it works out cheaper.
- 5
English classes
Free ESL classes run through the community college and several churches. Look under Trainings here, and ask at your church — the good ones are usually found by word of mouth.
- 6
Work authorisation
You need work authorisation before an employer can hire you legally. What that means depends entirely on your immigration status, so speak to an accredited representative or a licensed attorney — not to whoever offers on a community board, here included.
- 7
If you need an interpreter
For anything medical you are entitled to a free professional interpreter by law — ask for one. For a school meeting, a lease signing, or a form you cannot read, someone here may be able to sit with you.
- 8
Where to buy injera and spices
Several Ethiopian and Eritrean shops around the valley carry injera, berbere, shiro, and teff flour. Look under Services & Businesses here, or ask at church — most people have a shop they swear by.