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Get phone, housing, essentials, transport, bank, and life admin in place.
Get a U.S. phone number + data plan (SIM/eSIM):
Your first mission: get a working phone number. Without it, you can't verify bank accounts, receive important calls, or navigate safely. Most banks and government systems block VoIP numbers, so you need a real U.S. number via Tello or Mint Mobile eSIM ($15-25/month). This is your lifeline.
Secure safe housing (temporary is fine, but verified)
You need a safe place to sleep tonight and for the coming weeks. Whether it's temporary (Airbnb, hotel) or longer-term (apartment), verify the neighborhood using CrimeGrade.org or NeighborhoodScout. Never wire money before seeing a place in person—scams targeting newcomers are rampant.
Buy essentials for sleep + hygiene + food (avoid "first-week chaos spending")
You need to sleep, eat, and stay clean. Head to Walmart or Target for a 'Bed in a Bag' set—everything you need for under $50. For food, skip Whole Foods and go straight to ALDI or Trader Joe's where you'll save 20-40%. Download the Flipp app to find weekly deals before you shop.
Learn transportation (transit card / routes / rideshare safety)
You're in a new city and need to get around. Download Transit or Citymapper for real-time bus and train info. Get a digital transit card (OMNY in NYC, Clipper in SF). For rideshares, always verify the license plate and ask 'Who are you here for?' instead of confirming your name.
Open an U.S. bank account (checking)
You can't function without a U.S. bank account. Visit Chase or Bank of America with your Passport, I-20/DS-2019, and proof of address (lease or utility bill). You don't need an SSN yet. Ask for a Student Account if you're under 25—it's free and saves you monthly fees.
Create your "Life Admin Folder" (digital + physical):
Your documents are your lifeline in America. Buy a fireproof folder for your Passport, Visa, lease, and I-94. Scan everything to Google Drive with 2FA enabled. Download your I-94 from https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov/home immediately—you'll need this number for almost everything.