Essential Documents to Bring When Relocating to the U.S.

Core Identification & Immigration Documents:

These are non-negotiable and often required upon entry and for various applications (SSN, bank account, driver's license).

• Passports: Original, valid passports for every family member traveling. Must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended U.S. entry date.
• U.S. Visas: Valid U.S. visa stamps in passports (if applicable, for nonimmigrant visas) OR your sealed Immigrant Visa packet (if entering as a permanent resident for the first time - DO NOT OPEN this packet).
• Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record: While often electronic, access and print a copy after arrival from the CBP I-94 website. This confirms your legal admission status and authorized duration of stay.
• Permanent Resident Card (Green Card): Original card (Form I-551) if you are already an LPR returning to the U.S.
• USCIS Approval Notices: Copies of key notices like Form I-797 (e.g., for H-1B/L-1 petition approvals, I-140 approval, I-485 receipt/approval).
• Birth Certificates: Original or certified copies (long-form showing parents' names is often preferred) for all family members.
• Marriage Certificate: Original or certified copy if applicable (for spouse's visa, name changes, joint applications).
• Divorce Decrees / Custody Agreements: Original or certified copies if applicable, especially when traveling with children from a previous relationship or if needed for name changes.
• Social Security Card (if previously issued): If you already have a U.S. SSN.

Financial Documents:

• Proof of Funds: May be required for certain visas or upon entry. Recent bank statements, letters from financial institutions showing sufficient funds for your initial stay or investment (if applicable).
• Home Country Bank Information: Account details, contact numbers, online access credentials needed for managing funds or transfers.
• Credit History/References (Optional but potentially helpful): Reports or reference letters from home country banks/lenders might occasionally supplement applications (e.g., for some rentals, though U.S. credit needs building separately).
• Tax Records: Copies of recent tax returns from your home country might be useful in certain situations (e.g., some financial applications).

Employment / Education Documents:

• Job Offer Letter / Employment Contract: Signed, official copy from your U.S. employer (crucial for work visa holders). Should detail position, salary, start date, and benefits.
• Educational Documents: Original diplomas, degrees, transcripts, professional certifications/licenses.
  • Translations: Obtain certified English translations if originals are not in English.
  • Evaluations: Consider getting a credential evaluation from a recognized U.S. service (like WES, ECE) beforehand to determine U.S. equivalency, which can be needed for jobs or further education.
• Resume/CV: Updated version tailored to U.S. standards.
• Letters of Recommendation: Professional or academic reference letters (ideally translated if not in English).
• School Records for Children: Official transcripts, report cards, immunization records (critical!), standardized test results, and any special education documentation (IEPs) needed for U.S. school enrollment (see Enrolling Kids).

Health & Medical Documents:

• Medical Records: Summaries of key medical histories, chronic conditions, allergies, and past surgeries for all family members.
• Vaccination/Immunization Records: Complete, official records for everyone. Especially vital for children enrolling in school and may be required for visa medical exams. Include COVID-19 vaccination proof. Translate if necessary.
• Dental Records: If available, particularly recent X-rays or treatment summaries.
• Prescriptions: Copies of prescriptions for all necessary medications, along with a doctor's letter explaining the medical need, especially for controlled substances or injectable medications. Check TSA and CBP rules for bringing medications. Bring an initial supply (e.g., 30-90 days).
• Proof of Health Insurance: Details of any travel insurance covering your journey and initial period, or information about your upcoming U.S. health plan if already arranged.
• Eyeglass/Contact Lens Prescriptions: Copies of current prescriptions.

Other Important Documents:

• International Driving Permit (IDP): Obtain *before* leaving your home country. Carry it with your valid foreign driver's license.
• Home Country Driver's License: Bring your valid plastic license card.
• Vehicle Documents (if shipping a car): Title, registration, shipping documentation, proof of compliance with U.S. standards (often complex and costly).
• Contact List: Printed list of important phone numbers and addresses (family, employer, U.S. contacts, emergency contacts, lawyer, bank).
• Travel Itinerary: Flight confirmations, hotel/temporary accommodation bookings.
• Pet Documents (if applicable): Rabies vaccination certificates, other required vaccinations, health certificates/Vet Check (within required timeframe), import permits (if needed), microchip information (see Moving Pets).
• Photos: Extra passport-style photos (meeting U.S. specs) can be useful.