Before you go:
- Make sure you have all required documentation, including visas, work permits, marriage certificates, driving licence and copies of past bank statements
- Arrange short-term accommodation for your first few weeks to give you plenty of time to look for a place longer term
- Make sure you know the address, post code and nearest tube stop of where you're staying - it makes it so much easier once you're in the airport
- Change a reasonable amount of your currency for US dollars
- Talk to your doctor about any medicine you might need
Useful links:
- Visa information
- Short-term accommodation
- John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
- Newark Libery International Airport
- La Guardia Airport
Finding a place
- Walk around the city, get to know areas, look online at prices and narrow down your search depending on your budget
- Use local newspapers, classified ads and estate agents to look round houses - don't feel pressured to sign anything on the spot but bear in mind the housing market moves pretty quickly here so something available in the morning may well be taken by the afternoon
- Ask people living nearby
- Beware of scams
Other Links:
Setting up a bank account
- You will need two forms of identification and a proof of your address
- Some banks may require your social security number
Health Insurance
- Don’t underestimate health issues: get your health insurance before leaving.
- Keep the policy number and the emergency number in your wallet
- Ask if the insurance company will take care of any expense on your behalf
- To apply for a Social Security Card in NYC, go to the nearest Social Security Administration (SSA) with a proof of identity (preferably your passport) and your visa
Useful links:
Staying safe
- Emergency number is 911
- Shield your PIN at cash machines, avoid empty subway carriages at night and never get in an unlicensed cab (only hail yellow cabs from the street or pre-book your taxi to pick you up)
Travelling Around
- After taking a cab, always take your receipt
- Buy a Metrocard if you need to travel frequently by subway or bus
- Get a map at the subway booth
Useful Links
You can read a further extension of this guide as well as top tips from a local on the best places to eat, drink and shop in NYC.If you're looking for somewhere to stay in New York, we can help you out! Use our free Expert Search to find the best accommodation in the city, with the best host.